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September 2026 Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring

The extensive production site of Grace’s European headquarters in Worms is characterised by silos weighing several tons and complex piping systems. Specialised chemical materials and process solutions are produced here for use in resource-efficient refining and fuel processes, high-performance industrial plastics, durable building materials, and the manufacture of vaccines and medicines, among other applications. The chemical products are processed under demanding conditions involving abrasive and corrosive substances, high temperatures and continuous operation. In this environment, precise and robust weighing technology is a decisive factor for stable processes and consistently high product quality.

Analogue measurement as a stable system foundation

For decades, Grace has relied on analogue compression load cells from Minebea Intec, which are integrated into silo and tank structures using the Flexlock mounting kit. The Flexlock kit ensures defined force transmission, compensates for installation and temperature-related movements, and protects the load cells from lateral forces and overloads.

Unlike digital load cells which have an analogue-to-digital converter integrated directly into the sensor, analogue load cells transmit only a voltage signal which is then converted into a digital signal by the weighing electronics. With fewer electronic components, the load cell is significantly more durable in demanding environments which reduces long-term service costs. The high quality of the analogue load cells ensures no concerns regarding signal stability or accuracy.

Technical consultancy for new silo projects

Against the backdrop of a planned expansion involving three new silos, Grace approached Minebea Intec to use the existing, long-proven measurement concept as the reference for future silo designs. The aim of the joint meeting was to provide technical consultancy as part of the project preparation. In consultation with Minebea Intec application specialist Stefan Christians, the existing configuration was analysed and discussions took place on how the established weighing system could be transferred to new projects.

“For new construction projects, we support our customers at an early stage with comprehensive application-specific expertise,” says Christians. “This includes taking into account environmental conditions, wind loads, seismic influences, as well as structural and metrological requirements.” This support provides planning certainty, reduces project-specific risks, and forms the basis for a technically sound, future-proof solution.

Close coordination from the early project phase gives Grace a sound basis for decision-making regarding further planning of the new silos. At the same time, it ensures that the subsequent weighing solution is optimally tailored to the respective process requirements and site conditions.

“What I particularly appreciate about Minebea Intec’s weighing technology is its reliability over many years. The systems have been running stably in continuous operation at our site for decades. In our environment, it is crucial to be able to rely on the measured values at all times. This gives us peace of mind in our day-to-day operations and significantly reduces unplanned downtime,” says Mathias Rau, industrial foreman at Grace.

For more information contact Minebea Intec, +49 151 6881492, heiko.sellin@minebea-intec.com, www.minebea-intec.com/en/

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Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring

Getting the chemistry right

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