Sensors for Bunkers, Pie & Oh My
Measure Volume in a Wedge or Pie-Shape Silo
For operators, having accurate data about the amount and dollar value of material on hand can help reduce safety stock, increase inventory turns, and pay for itself by freeing up spend that could be tied up in inventory.
Operations that manage inventory in pie-shaped silo segments now have a solution that provides accurate volume data thanks to the 3DLevelScanner.
The acoustic sensor measures and models the topography of material contained in these unusually-shaped wedges. BinMaster firmware then applies the measured distances to a 3D model of vessel dimensions, converting it to a highly-accurate volume measurement.
Adversely, measurement sensors such as non-contact radar, guided wave radar, and weight-and-cable-style sensors measure only a single point.
The location of filling or emptying points—or lack of material flow—may cause uneven piling of material, which may cause single-point inventory measurements to be inaccurate. By comparison, the 3DLevelScanner maps the material surface, accounting for variations and the radius and height of the silo segment for a precise volume calculation.
This 3DLevelScanner can be used in either segmented or round silos, making it a versatile choice over its long sensor life.
Prevent Silo Collapse Using 3DLevelScanners
Steel and concrete silo walls are known to wear or fail, causing cracking, denting, buckling, and bending that can lead to a catastrophic collapse like this one! BinMaster`s 3DLevelScanner identifies the location of the center of gravity, displays it graphically, and alerts when it falls outside of a predefined area.
A 3D sensor is mounted on the roof of the silo in an optimal location to view the full material surface in the silo. Level measurements are used to determine the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the center of gravity based on the material topography. The coordinates are processed in 3DMultiVision software via a proprietary RS-485 communication protocol. Here, users can define the alert parameters and the accepted area into which the center of gravity must fall.
A 3D visual will then indicate where the center of gravity is located and show the acceptable area.
Operational teams can use this unique solution to help reduce structural stress when loading or emptying a silo. For maintenance, it offers preventative alerts for inspection or cleaning. Use of the 3D scanner over time can prolong silo integrity and create a safer environment by alerting to potential structural stress caused by uneven loading.
Level Monitoring in Covered Storage Bunkers
Mining, aggregate, and cement operations often manage inventory in covered storage bunkers. BinMaster’s 3DLevelScanner and its leading-edge software measure the level of materials piled under structures. Multiple sensors map levels across the material surface, while MultiVision software separates the piled material into virtual sections. Minimum, maximum, and average levels per section are reported for up to 99 unique sections. The data is aggregated to output a visual showing the topography of the entire storage bunker.
This first-of-its-kind solution can estimate inventory and improve production efficiency. Identifying high and low sections allows for automating process control and managing the filling or extraction of materials through cone-shaped hoppers in the bottom of the bunker. In proven installations, up to 20 3D Level Scanner have been mounted in the upper structure of the bunker roof. The bunker is virtually divided into sections as small as 1.5 by 1.5 meters with the 3D sensors continuously measuring changes across the surface and providing unique visual and data reporting of inventory in the massive structure. This cutting-edge technology is ideal for copper, alumina, coal, or other ores or aggregates stored in covered structures.
Get connected to your inventory with the only level sensor that measures and maps multiple points on the material surface. A 3D image representing the topography inside the silo indicates buildup, cone up or down conditions. 3DVision software accounts for irregular material surfaces when calculating volume. The 3DLevelScanner’s acoustics-based technology penetrates dust ensuring reliable measurements. This non-contact technology accurately measures solids and powders, including low-dielectric materials.
And you can get it only from BinMaster.