Point Level Indicators

Microwave

The Hycontrol MWS microwave-blocked chute detection system provides a simple non-contact, non-intrusive option suitable for many applications on dry powder or granular products.

An installation comprises a transmitter and a receiver which are mounted facing one another at distances up to 100 m apart (for the AC version). During operation, the transmitter emits a continuous, low-power microwave beam to the receiver, and an output relay is energized or de-energized when the monitored material obstructs the beam.

The amount of microwave energy received determines the switch trigger point. Therefore, the MWS can be adjusted to cater to different products and sensitivity settings depending on the application. Typical applications for detecting the presence and non-presence of materials include flow and no-flow conditions, point level detection, blocked chute detection, and proximity switch detection for reversing vehicles, including trucks and rail cars.

This technology can monitor product build-up on tank or chute walls and can be non-intrusive by utilizing protective windows. It is ideal for replacing costly nucleonic devices – unlike which there are no requirements for permits or special operator training. It is easy to retrofit existing chutes and vessels. The MWS system has very low maintenance requirements. 

Blocked Chute Detection Animation

Microwave

Hycontrol’s Microsense flow/no-flow detector offers a safe and straightforward solution to various production applications. When applied to solids, powder or particulate products, the single-piece, non-contact unit alerts operators to disrupted flow where continued supply is required (perhaps caused by a blockage or loss of supply). Conversely, it can confirm flow has stopped entirely before new material is introduced into the flow stream, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination.

The flow switch uses a microwave Doppler effect and is non-invasive. During operation, the sensing head transmits a continuous low-power microwave beam onto the path of the flowing product. As a result, any present product will partially reflect the microwave beams. Analysis of these reflections will show whether the product particles are moving or stationary objects.

The highly penetrative microwave beam emitted by the Microsense unit passes through any build-up on the transmitter face. It will even detect through pipes of non-conducting materials such as plastic and ceramics. This versatile and powerful switch is best suited for detecting materials such as dry solids, granules, flakes, and powders. Microsense is sensitive enough to register low levels of flow. By ensuring operators are fully aware of their flow or no-flow status, the unit assists in the achievement of relevant hygiene standards, confirming there are no contaminants from other material streams present.

Typical applications include grain, flour, cement, ore, stone coal and animal feed mills. Microsense will detect flow in pipelines, chutes, transfer bins, distributors, feeders, conveyor belts, bucket elevators or free air. For extra security, this detector can combine with a microwave blocked chute monitoring system to provide both flow or no-flow output and blocked or clear chute indication, providing operators with maximum plant protection.

Flow and No-Flow Detection Animation