Smart weighing boosts Bayer’s automation
June 2025
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
The new supply centre of the agricultural chemical and pharmaceutical company Bayer
integrates weighing technology of Minebea Intec for precise mixing and homogenisation in Zone 2 hazardous areas. Features like smart calibration save time and labour, while seamless system integration ensures scalability.
As a division of the Bayer Group, Bayer Crop Science holds a leading position in the global agricultural technology sector. Recently, Bayer Crop Science established a new supply centre in Hangzhou, aimed at expanding the production of products such as fungicides, insecticides and herbicides.
The solution consists of MP 79T load cells, mounting kits, junction box and weighing indicator, enabling precise execution such as solid-liquid mixing, high-speed agitation and homogenisation in Zone 2 hazardous areas. Notably, the mounting kit comes with a built-in horizontal rod to effectively reduce the impact of lateral forces caused by stirring. The junction box employs one-way breathable membrane technology ensuring no condensation inside the box. These designs have enhanced reliability under challenging environmental conditions.
Certified components for smooth system integration
The load cells and junction boxes included in the Minebea Intec solution are certified with international regulations such as ATEX and OIML, and the weight indicator X2 also holds domestic certifications in China, including the PCEC Explosion-Proof Certificate and the CENX National Explosion-Proof Certificate. It proves that Minebea Intec’s solutions can comply with regulations worldwide providing customers with the highest level of safety assurance.
Bayer’s new supply centre aims to implement an integrated management system by utilising advanced digital technologies while aligning with German standards. As a leading innovator in the field of weighing, Minebea Intec’s solutions cater to Bayer’s requirements. For instance, the indicator X2, which features both Profibus-DP bus communication and 4-20 mA analogue output, integrates easily into original systems and provides room for future upgrades and expansions at the same time.
Efficient calibration and comprehensive service from a single source
Among Bayer’s 11 sets of tanks, the measurement range varies from a maximum of 9 tons to a minimum of 4 tons. If traditional calibration methods were used, each tank would need to be loaded up to 80 to100% of its capacity, a process that is time consuming, labour intensive and often hindered by the structural limitations. By contrast, the smart calibration allows for weightless calibration. Once the operator enters each load cell’s unique sensitivity coefficient (Cn), the indicator will automatically calculate the loading data required for calibration. This feature alone can save at least three days during the installation and commissioning phase. During subsequent periodic calibrations the smart calibration function continues to simplify operations and minimise downtime.
Minebea Intec offers more than just solutions. The professional team has more than 150 years of experience and expertise. From planning to commissioning and maintenance, Minebea Intec offers its customers support every step of the way to ensure a smooth process.
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