Silo Patrol® Plumb Bob Style Level Sensor
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The Silo Patrol® SE Inventory Management System is an industry-leading cable-based smart level sensor system that is designed to handle some of the harshest and most dynamic conditions. The Silo Patrol SE system incorporates state-of-the-art sensors, a wide choice of operator interfaces, auxiliary outputs and displays, as well as unique remote/vendor managed inventory solutions.
The introduction of Silo Patrol several years ago delivered the first truly robust level sensor design, providing reliable and high value solutions for a wide variety of applications and industries worldwide. The Silo Patrol SE incorporates significant advances in this field-proven approach to reliably monitoring the level of material in bins, silos and tanks up to 150ft (45.7m) in height. The Silo Patrol SE level sensor technology is suitable for use with a multiplicity of powders, granules, slurries and liquids, even in the most harsh and dynamic conditions.
The heart of the Silo Patrol SE level measurement system is the sensor itself. The Model SMU (Silo Monitoring Unit), incorporates technological advancements, requires no field adjustments and its robust design provides virtually maintenance-free operation. The SMU is suited for most any application and can be equipped with a variety of mounting flanges and plumb bobs.
The Silo Patrol SE system also offers the most sensor interface choices:
• RS-485 “smart” communications output
• 4-20mA analog output
• AC/DC Pulse output
The “smart” RS-485 output version SMU can be connected with either the multi-functional HMI2Operator Interface Control Console or with SiloTrack™ PC-based Inventory Management Software that provides a flexible graphical interface for up to 128 sensors.
If a stand alone level detection sensor with analog output and no operator interface display is what you are looking for, the SMU is available in this type of configuration at an affordable purchase price. The SMU is available as a truly stand alone analog output transmitter, including automatic measurement initiation and a relay output.
The SMU pulse output sensor is typically used for connecting into older Monitor Technologies inventory systems. This output version retrofits and replaces the older CM3A/CM4 sensors and uses the AC pulse output to connect to the old system console. The DC pulse output also included with the latest SMU pulse output version can be used to connect into existing PLC systems.
.: Principle of Operation
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.: Applications
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.: Electronic Features
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.: Mechanical Features
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.: SMU Model Selection
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.: SMU Accessories
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.: HMI2 Control Console
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.: PC-Based Software
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.: Vol/Weight Cal.
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.: System Accessories
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.: Specifications
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.: Warranty
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Principle of Operation
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Once a measurement cycle is initiated, the SiloPatrol® SE sensor (SMU) “smart” motor system controls the descent of a plumb bob, attached to a heavy-duty stainless steel cable, into the vessel. The SMU measures the amount of cable dispensed via its unique optical sensing system. The SMU’s optic system is completely sealed from the internal environment of the electronics compartment, which is isolated and sealed from material ingress in the mechanical compartment, to ensure long-term reliable operation.
The descent of the bob is maintained at an optimal speed by the “smart” motor control system, contributing to the elimination of cable slack and maximizing the motor life. In conjunction with the unique dual optical sensing system, the “smart” motor control system guarantees that the bob will stop when it contacts the material surface and eliminates the need for a mechanical brake. When the bob reaches the material surface, the SMU reverses the direction of the motor and transmits the distance value.
During the ascent of the bob, the SMU measures the amount of cable gathered and controls the speed of ascent. This ensures proper cable wrapping in the patented storage reel and tangle-free operation.
The latest SMU also includes an innovative Hall-effect sensor array that monitors the movement and position of the swing-arm that controls the absorption of slack in the cable system during descent and ascent. The SMU is smarter than ever and uses this technology to control the cable and plumb bob travel to ensure reliability of the measurement cycle, even with harsh changing conditions in the most severe applications.
The standalone versions of the SMU generate their respective 4-20mA or Pulse output in response to a measurement query, or automatically with the analog output version. The standard “smart” RS485 SMU communicates with the operator interface chosen for the system (HMI2 or SiloTrack™ PC software). These operator interfaces can perform calculations and conversions to display the data in the format desired. The SiloPatrol SE system, if so equipped, will also generate auxiliary analog and/or relay outputs. RS485 communications can be accomplished via hardwiring or with wireless transceivers.
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Applications
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(click here to download)
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The SiloPatrol® SE Inventory Management System can be used in a wide variety of applications. These include, but are not limited to, simple inventory monitoring with a standalone HMI2 display to Remote and Vendor managed inventory solutions using SiloTrack™ server and client software to manage inventories at multiple facilities while providing access to a virtually unlimited number of users.
Materials being monitored include a broad list of powders and bulk solids, as well as, a wide range of liquids and slurries. These include coarse/fine granular solids, powders, liquids, foodstuffs and many other substances.
Typical Applications include, but are not limited to:
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Feeds
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Bulk Chemicals
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Cement
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Plastic Pellets
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Rocks
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Coal
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Limestone
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Liquids
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Sand
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Powders
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Plastic Regrind
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Oils
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Coffee |
Grains
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REMOTE INVENTORY MONITORING
If material levels need to be monitored at one or many locations (i.e. your facility, a location down the street, or a plant on the other side of the world) the SiloPatrol® SE system can provide accurate and reliable measurements. Using SiloTrack™ Version 3.5 software, inventory monitoring from remote locations has never been easier.
WIRELESS SENSOR COMMUNICATION INTERFACE
While using the SiloPatrol® SE “smart” sensor is the most economical approach available for inventory monitoring, using the available wireless interface in your application may help you reduce the installed cost of your SiloTrack™ / SiloPatrol SE system even further.
The wireless transceivers use frequency-hopping spread-spectrum wireless technology and operate in the FCC license-free 900MHz band. This provides the longest range and most reliable wireless communications available.
Working in conjunction with SiloTrack™ PC-Based inventory management software, the wireless transceivers provide the most functional and economical inventory management system available today.
Refer to Bulletin 343D for additional information and contact our technical support personnel today to see if your application can benefit from the a wireless communications solution.
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SMU Sensor Electronic Features
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Industry-exclusive use of magnetic Hall effect sensor technology (patent pending) monitors swing-arm movement and improves overall application reliability and performance, even with the most difficult dynamic conditions
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Microcontroller technology provides “smart” motor control, high resolution/accuracy and consistent performance under the most challenging and dynamic conditions
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Lock-out input on all models to restrict sensor from initiating a measurement cycle (used to disable measurement during filling operations)
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Industry-exclusive electronics certified to international CE 1010 standard ensures compliance in shock hazard protection, electromagnetic noise interference and generation
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Complete electrical isolation between inputs/outputs and earth ground eliminates ground loops and ensures proper long-term operation and data communication
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Superior resolution of 0.01ft (0.12”; 3mm)
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Unique optical measuring system uses an amplification circuit to maximize signal-to-noise performance
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Relay output standard on analog output version provides contact closure based on user set level, sensor failure or measurement cycle operating
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SMU Sensor Mechanical Features
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Split-compartment enclosure completely isolates electronics from mechanical section of sensor
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Industry-exclusive compartment seals optical sensors from internal SMU environment completely eliminating problems created by contamination, even from conduits
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Industry-first direct-drive motor and heavy-duty cable system deliver unsurpassed pull strength
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Process seal (wiper seal mechanism) easily replaced without removing or cutting cable
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Unlike most competitive devices, the SMU wiper seals provide full-circumference wiping of the cable
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Freeze-resistant flange can eliminate problems in applications where changing environmental conditions and condensation are present
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Patented storage reel incorporates a "step" to ensure non-tangling cable wrap
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Cable pathway and storage reel are completely captive, eliminating cable-jump
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Wide variety of plumb bobs available including cast aluminum or stainless steel, standard plumb bob, stainless steel inverted cone, Teflon coated and digestible
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Air purge connection enables operation in dynamic, dust-laden applications
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SMU Sensor Model Selections
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OUTPUT TYPES
Standard "Smart": The SMU communicates with the HMI2 or SiloTrack™ PC-based Inventory Management Software via a RS-485 proprietary protocol. This type of system can also be equipped with auxiliary relay and/or analog outputs and remote displays.
Analog 4-20mA: This SMU sensor is a standalone transmitter version providing a direct analog signal for each measurement update. Measurements are initiated automatically as setup within the sensor or in response to a remotely activated contact closure. This sensor version is provided with a relay output that can be set to activate when a user established level is reached, upon detection of a sensor error or when a measurement cycle is in process.
Pulse (retrofit): This SMU version generates AC or DC pulses in response to a request for a measurement from a contact input. This output can be used to provide direct input into a PLC or to integrate into an older Monitor Technologies Model CM console when replacing the old Model CM-3A or CM-4 sensors. The SMU provides only a 1/10’ or dm pulse output. This sensor version is provided with a relay output that indicates when a measurement cycle is in process.
APPROVALS
The SiloPatrol® SE Model SMU sensor is available certified for either Ordinary or Hazardous locations. The SMU also carries the CE Mark. Consult the Specifications section for further information.
FREEZE-RESISTANT MOUNTING FLANGES
SMU sensors can be provided with either the standard flat mounting flange or one of the angled flanges (5° and 10° available) for adapting to sloped roofs. Each of these standard flanges has a unique design that resists freezing of the plumb bob to the underside of the flange. This is especially important in very cold climate conditions where moisture from condensation within the silo can form and create ice on the underside of the silo roof, usually due to cycling above and below freezing temperature in an outdoor installation. In these applications the freeze-resistant flange may eliminate the need for standpipe or flange heating. Contact the factory for modified ANSI/DIN flanges (not “freeze resistant”).
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SMU Sensor Accessories
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Dimensions are shown in inches with millimeter equivalent in brackets
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Standard Cast Aluminum - Most SMU sensors are shipped with this plumb bob assembled to the unit. For use with bulk solids with a bulk density greater than 20lbs/ft3 (320kg/m3). A Teflon® coated version is also available for sticky materials.
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316 Stainless Steel - For use with corrosive solids and foodstuffs with bulk densities greater than 20lbs/ft3 (320kg/m3). This plumb bob is typically shipped as a separate item, but can be assembled to the SMU at the factory upon request.
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316 SS Inverted Cone - For use with light bulk solids and foodstuffs with bulk densities greater than 5lbs/ft3 (80kg/m3). Teflon®-coated also available for corrosive or sticky materials. This is shipped as a separate line item and must be attached to the cable in the field.
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6 in (152 mm) Diameter 316 SS Ball Float: For use with liquids with a minimum specific gravity of 0.85. A Teflon®-coated version is also available for corrosive or sticky materials. This plumb bob is shipped as a separate line item and must be attached to the cable in the field.
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