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leelavathyr
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Measuring Powder Levels

09/30/2009 2:35 AM

Can anyone suggest the most accurate instrument for the level measurement of powder in a silo
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PWSlack
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#1

Re: Measurement of powder level

09/30/2009 3:32 AM

Yes, indeed. The required instruments can be found in the Endress + Hauser and the Vega catalogues (usual disclaimers), among others. However they only give volume which, in the case of a powder, might vary with compaction and moisture content depending upon what it is, which hasn't been stated in the original posting. Rather than volume, one might also try placing the complete silo on weigh cells and weighing it instead, perhaps? Weight measurement would knock out the compaction variable, leaving moisture content as the variable factor.

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jack of all trades
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#2

Re: Measurement of powder level

09/30/2009 2:57 PM

There are many different ways but it really depends on the application and vessel size.

What exactly is the powder?

Is the powder fine or granulated? Is it aerated due to process agitation?

What is the size and height of the vessel?

What is the width of the vessel?

What is the vessel made of (steel, stainless steel, plastic, etc. effects which sensors will work)?

How is the vessel filled and emptied (effects level shape and possibly aeration making measurement more difficult)?

Is the powder prone to forming a sinkhole in the middle of the vessel during emptying making level measurement more difficult)?

What measurement accuracy is needed?

There are probably other questions but these are the main ones I can think of. As for a really quick answer, probably non-contact microwave radar is your best bet (but it is one of the most expensive if not the most).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Level_sensor

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hazman
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#3

Re: Measuring Powder Levels

10/01/2009 2:32 AM

One very simple way is to put a load cell under one foot.

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bioramani
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Re: Measuring Powder Levels

10/01/2009 4:24 AM

http://www.monitortech.com/product_conti.shtml

http://sensors-transducers.globalspec.com/Industrial-Directory/grain_silo_level_sensor

http://www.automation.siemens.com/w1/sensor-systems-raw-material-silo-level-13863.htm

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