ABB has announced its next generation of ultrasonic level measurement, the LST400 ultrasonic level transmitter. Designed for liquid and bulk solids applications, the LST400 automatically adjusts settings – power of pulse, pulse duration, receiver sensitivity – to handle a wide range of challenging environments. This allows the instrument to work even in the presence of dust, vapour, or foam.
The LST400 measures up to 15 m for flow rates in all types of open channel flow applications. A narrow beam angle allows accurate measurements in narrow vessels. Adjustable threshold means level measurements can be made even with H-beams present in a silo.
The LST400 provides a single 4-20 mA analog output with support for HART 7 digital communications over existing plant infrastructure. This simplifies configuration and installation. The transmitter includes five, fully configurable relays for level control. Typical weirs and flumes for open channel flow are preconfigured.
“The LST400 is based on a strong history of innovation and ultrasonic sensor technology from K-TEK,” says Jacques Groenewald, product manager, ABB Engineering. “Measurements are based on the time-of-flight of an acoustic wave that is emitted from a transducer and directed toward the product being measured. This wave is reflected back toward the transducer and then converted to an electric signal. The LST400 automatically adjusts the power of the pulse, pulse duration and receiver sensitivity to surrounding conditions, to hear the return echo. Powerful software removes false echoes from the signal and electronic filters remove ambient noise.”
Seen at the launch of ABB’s LST400 ultrasonic level transmitter, from l: Jacolize Goosen, channel partner coordinator, ABB South Africa; Jacques Groenewald, product manager, ABB China; Leo Franken, national sales manager, ABB South Africa; Shaugn Osler, business development manager, ABB South Africa.
An integrated 128 x 64 dot display provides easy access to detailed readings, including distance and level, percentage fill, flow rate, total flow, height to the top of the material being measured, and temperature. An on-board echo profile provides full diagnostics, which can also indicate trends.
The LST400 is housed in a polycarbonate enclosure. Two sensors are available. The S15 standard sensor measures liquids up to 15 m. The F15 foam-faced sensor measures solids up to 15 m. Both carry IP68 ratings, suitable for water and wastewater applications.
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