German-based Harzer Antriebstechnik specialises in the planning and engineering of sophisticated automation solutions focusing on drive technology. The company recently began to fit honey extractors with Siemens technology, optimising the efficiency of the entire honey centrifugation process from the controller through the frequency converter to the operator unit.
To harvest the best quality honey, beekeepers use what are known as honey extractors to extract the honey out of the comb by centrifugal force. The key to efficient operation is to ensure the seamless interaction between the controller, the operator unit and the drive. The production conditions for the different types of honey are defined at the discretion of the beekeeper by simply selecting the spin program and setting the drive parameters.
Centrifugation
A honey extractor comprises a cylindrical stainless steel drum which accommodates a honeycomb basket with a rotating axis. This is connected to the drive below the drum. Depending on the size of the extractor, the honeycomb basket can accommodate between 4 and 16 comb frames in which the combs are placed. Once the lid is closed and the spin program has been selected, the drive sets the honeycomb basket in rotation. The centrifugal force flings the honey against the inner wall of the drum. It flows down the wall and is collected at the base of the drum. To ensure that honey is centrifuged out of both sides of the comb, the combs are turned by reversing the motor direction. Finally, the honey is guided through a drain valve into a collecting bin.
Harzer Antriebstechnik honey extractors work using a controller model based on Simatic technology, and a Sinamics G110 frequency converter as a variable-speed drive. During the extraction process, a motor connected to the frequency converter is controlled via the communication module by a Simatic S7-1200 controller from Siemens. The motors have an output of between 0,37 and 2,2 kW with a single-phase 230 Volt AC supply.
Using a Simatic HMI KTP400 Basic combined button and touch operator panel, the beekeeper selects the spin program and the configuration. It is also possible to monitor the program sequence and individually modify the set motor speed. An exchangeable cover film protects the panel’s control buttons and switches from becoming gummed up with honey. If maintenance is required, only the controller itself needs to be sent in.
WEBER-HYDRAULIK modernises warehouse in record time
Motion Control & Drives
WEBER-HYDRAULIK is a leading international specialist in customised hydraulic solutions. After its old buffer warehouse had become outdated and was partially worn out mechanically, the decision was made to completely renovate it.
Read more...Yaskawa Southern Africa launches laser welding cell
Motion Control & Drives
Yaskawa Southern Africa has partnered with Industrial Manufacturing Systems South Africa to introduce the Megmeet laser welding cell, a breakthrough solution combining precision robotics with cutting-edge laser technology.
Read more...Next-gen planetary gearboxes SEW-EURODRIVE
Motion Control & Drives
Leading the way in planetary gear unit innovation, SEW-EURODRIVE is extending its reach across a growing range of industries, delivering the advantages of this powerful technology through locally engineered solutions that ensure faster lead times.
Read more...Record-breaking dragline relocation
Motion Control & Drives
Draglines are key pieces of equipment in open-pit mining. BHP Mitsubishi Alliance entrusted Mammoet with the relocation of a 3100 ton Marion 8050 dragline from one end of the Peak Downs coal mine in Queensland, Australia to another, a full 27 km away.
Read more...igus expands 3D printing capabilities igus
Motion Control & Drives
Motion plastics specialist, igus South Africa has introduced a new 3D printing service capable of producing custom parts in two engineering-grade polymers with exceptional strength and without the need for lubrication.
Read more...Bühler adds new die refurbishment machine
Motion Control & Drives
Bühler has reinforced its commitment to customers in southern Africa with the installation of a new die refurbishment machine at its Johannesburg workshop.
Read more...Reimagining rotation for a circular and sustainable future SKF South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Through the design and manufacture of components with sustainability at their core, SKF is reimagining the future of rotation, rolling away from traditional, consumable-based thinking toward a smarter, more sustainable circular approach.”
Read more...Optimising operational efficiencies through advanced filtration systems Bearing Man Group t/a BMG
Motion Control & Drives
Filtration is the only effective defense against wear and tear when contaminants are present. It is therefore critical that effective filter components are correctly used to ensure dependable performance, high efficiency and extended service life of machinery and vehicles.
Read more...Sustainable energy management Siemens South Africa
IT in Manufacturing
Utilising its innovative ONE approach technology, Siemens provides complete transparency on resource consumption and offers data-driven optimisation recommendations for sustainable energy management.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version