Solids volume and level instrumentation company acquired!

New technology augments measurement instrumentation portfolio; helps operators accurately measure solids for improved process and inventory control

APM Automation Solutions, a leading developer of solids volume and level measurement instrumentation, is to become part of the Emerson Process Management business. APM’s acoustic imaging and 3D mapping technologies take the guesswork out of measuring the level, volume and mass of bulk solids and powders stored inside a silo or open bin.

“The APM acquisition is an exciting step as we move further into the solids measurement market,” said Tom Moser, group vice president of Emerson Process Management’s measurement and analytical businesses. “Our customers want to be able to go to a single source for liquids, gases and solids measurement instrumentation – now we can better deliver on that request. The addition of APM’s leading technology will enable Emerson to provide customers with a broad range of solids volume measurement options, from small bins up to very large bins and open piles.”

APM Automation Solutions technology is used in food and beverage, metals and mining, power, chemical, pulp and paper, and other industries. For example, in ethanol production where grain is used as a feedstock and stored in irregularly shaped and difficult to measure piles in large silos, APM’s dust-penetrating technology maps multiple measurement points and generates an accurate reading of the content. This information helps operators to easily spot air pockets or clogging and measure volume for accurate process control, better inventory control, early warning of maintenance requirements, and improved safety.

Emerson Process Management will expand its capabilities in solids measurement applications by adding these APM Automation Solutions technologies to its Rosemount® portfolio of measurement technologies. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.