Enhanced level measurement technology for bulk solids applications.

New functions and certifications expand the range of applications for Rosemount™ level measurement devices, helping to provide greater control of inventory and manufacturing processes

Further addressing the tough challenges of accurately measuring level and volume of bulk solids and powders in large vessels, bins and silos, Emerson Process Management has enhanced its range of level measurement devices. A number of new functions and certifications will help to minimise maintenance, enable easy integration and expand the range of suitable applications.

“Uneven surfaces, irregular build-up and harsh, dusty and potentially explosive environments make measuring the level of solids in large vessels problematic, impacting inventory control decisions,” said Asael Sharabi, technical director at Emerson Process Management. “Emerson’s enhanced Rosemount instrumentation meets these challenges to provide users with greater control of inventories and entire manufacturing processes, with significant financial benefits.”

Supporting manufacturers’ need for improved inventory control, the Rosemount 5708 Series 3D Solids Scanner, which uses acoustic measurement and 3D mapping technology to provide highly accurate continuous level and volume measurement, is now suitable for a broader range of applications. The device is now ATEX/IECEx certified for installation in areas with potentially explosive atmospheres, often found in solids measurement applications. A new mounting adaptor also allows the device to be installed within electrostatic precipitator (ESP) hoppers. By using its 3D visualisation capability to map out the surface of the fly ash that builds up in the hopper, operators can optimise the process, reducing cost, risk and wear and tear on the hopper.

To overcome the difficulty of installation and integration, Emerson has introduced full SCADA integration support for the solids scanner. Users can now seamlessly integrate 3D visualisation of the surface level into Emerson’s Ovation™ or DeltaV™ distributed control systems, delivered directly to control room operators.

For remote solids applications or where there is no existing cable infrastructure, wireless can be the key for a successful project. Both the solids scanner and the Rosemount 5402 Non-contacting Radar, which provides bulk solids level measurement for applications with smaller sized vessels, can now be connected to a WirelessHART® network using a Smart Wireless THUM™ Adapter. This enables easy integration to the automation architecture, reducing installation cost and time.

New functions help to further reduce if not eliminate device maintenance requirements. The new air purging connection for the Rosemount 5402 prevents clogging of the antenna in applications with very dusty environments. The already present self-cleaning function on the Rosemount 5708 can now be complemented with a new PTFE coated antenna which helps extend maintenance intervals even further, especially where extremely sticky materials are present.