Accurately Measure Level Through Dust Suppression Sprays
Hawk Measurement Systems (HAWK) designed and developed a powerful level transmitter that accurately measures level through dust suppression sprays. HAWK uses Acoustic Wave technology for their non-intrusive, Sultan Continuous Level Transmitter range. Applications include, Primary Crusher Surge Bin, Secondary and Tertiary Crushers, Process Slurry Tanks, Stockpile Level Control, Truck Detection, Shuttle Conveyor Positioning Transmitter, Anti Collision Controls and more.
The major advantages that Acoustic Wave technology, brings to Mining applications are:
- Automatic Cleaning of condensation and buildup off the face of the measuring diaphragm, that Radar technologies do not offer.
- Continuous measurement of solids even when dust suppression sprays are activated.
- A range of acoustic transmitters. 5Khz,10Khz,15Khz,20Khz,30Khz,40Khz,50Khz frequencies up to a maximum range of 65m (214ft), integral or remote versions.
- Foundation FieldBus, ProfiBus PA, HART, integral two wired transmitters or remote transmitter versions.
Acoustic Wave products distinguish themselves from traditional ultrasonic and radar level products by combining low frequency, high power and adaptive gain technology. In this way, you can measure even the most difficult level applications, such as, Primary Crusher Surge Bins, Process Sumps that suffer from condensation, froth and foam. These applications have always been problematic on mine sites and by careful selection of transducer frequencies and housing materials, HAWK can offer process application guarantees.
A common application in the mining industry is to measure depth of ore, after a truck has dumped into a ROM Bin. It is important to maintain a specific level of ore to protect the Apron Feeder and to indicate when the next truck can dump. This application is challenging because of water dust suppression sprays, dust, build-up, large lump to fines, ore size, grizzly beams etc.
For this application we must always use a non-intrusive level technology that is positioned out of the way of being physically damaged by the truck and the falling Ore. If a Grizzly is installed a position between two beams in a central position of the ROM Bin is always the best. Two technologies are available: Radar and Acoustic level transmitters. Both have the range capability in a dry application, but when Water Sprays are used to suppress dust, the water and dust build-up on the Radar will make it fail.
