UWT, the leading global manufacturer of level measurement technology, has launched a multifunctional unit for discontinuous level monitoring in bulk goods

The electromechanical measurement device is an invaluable instrument in the field of inventory management due to its advanced electronics technology. The reliable electromechanical lot system Nivobob? with its robust mechanical design has for that reason become the choice of many plant operators across the globe faced with demanding conditions. The Nivobob series of plumb bob sensors is used for continuous level measurement within bulk storage silos and also for interface measurement. The simple electromechanical measurement principle is a truly reliable all-rounder in most bulk materials.

The sensor weight, made of a suitable material, attached to either a tape or rope is electromechanically lowered from the top into the vessel. Once the sensor weight rests on the material, the winding direction of the motor changes and the sensor weight is rewound to the upper stop position. The electromechanical lot system devices communicate directly with PLC control systems via an analog 4...20 mA signal or even a MODBUS RTU or Profibus digital protocol. Thus the Nivobob lot systems are directly compatible with all conventional control systems. The user friendly software with its quick set-up option in different languages makes the programming of the required parameters an easy job. For the lot device threaded or flange mounting is possible.

One of the most commonly asked question regarding this technology is how it can be prevented that the cables of the lot system get tangled, i.e., as a result of constant winding and unwinding or by material being drawn up causing interference. UWT has addressed this problem and has introduced a design, which utilizes only one or two reels. It is also equipped with a brush cleaning system or a spring-tensioned tape fitted with a scraping mechanism, which removes material from the cable or tape when is retracted into the housing.

Every little detail has been taken into consideration in the design of the reliable Nivobob series; such as the device seals itself during downtime in order to prevent any material from being blown into the housing. The Nivobob not only features advanced electronic enhancements but also boast a robust design, such as heavy-duty cables which prevent the sensor weights from being disconnected and causing possible damage. As an additional safety feature a maximal travel distance parameter of the sensor weights can be set to avoid weights from getting caught in the bottom of the bin when the silo is emptied.

Due to the modular construction individual customer wishes can be easily included into the product design - even for tricky bulk solids, such as silicic acid. The material condition of flimsy silicic acid is very dusty and sticky. For processing the material needs to be fluidised, in that case the material density is below 5 g/l. The dielectric constant of the material is also very low (1.2). The UWT Lot NB3000 is a well-fitting solution for a constant monitoring of the level within the silos. The feel weight is a parachute which makes a very sensitive measurement possible. It will not dive deep into the soft surface of the silicic acid during the measurement. The tape cleaner avoids the pollution of the mechanical parts in the housing. The Nivobob 3000 provides a reliable level signal. Neither dust nor backing and the soft surface of the silicic acid are a problem for the NB 3000 in this application.

Based in the Allg?u - Germany, for the past 35 years, UWT is the leading manufacturer of level measurement technology on the world market. The company is principally focused on the field of bulk solids. Its head office, development and production facilities are located in the Allg?u. With an additional production facility in Malta and its own sales subsidiaries in the United States, United Kingdom and in the growth regions of China and India, the company can meet the needs of the world market with the greatest flexibility that customers expect. The company is certified ISO 9001: 2008 and constantly expands its portfolio of product certifications (ATEX, FM, CSA), particularly with regard to the international markets. The products feature easy handling, high reliability and long service life under the motto of the company "Brilliantly simple level measurement in bulk solids.

Rahul Rathore, Regional Sales Manager - India, UWT Level Control India Pvt Ltd, Gurgaon. Tel: 0124-4121684. Mobile: 097172-03939. Fax: 91-124-4121611. Email: rahul.rathore@uwt-india.com