A leap forward in contactless level measurement
LXRC free-space radar sensor from SICK offers accurate, repeatable monitoring of liquids and solids
CONTACTLESS measurement of liquids and solids has taken a leap forward with SICK’s new LXRC sensor. Designed specifically for continuous level monitoring and using free-space radar technology, the device is accurate, repeatable, and suitable for an enormous range of applications, including aggregates.
Using frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar, the LXRC sensor can measure levels of liquids and bulk materials at a range of up to 15m, with an accuracy of +/-2mm, providing ideal, easy installation solutions throughout industrial operations.
Because the sensor uses contactless FMCW radar technology, the LXRC overcomes a range of problems associated with alternative level measurement techniques. Contact measurement technologies can require increased effort to clean tanks and sensors, sustain damage from abrasive, highly viscose or aggressive materials, and see build up on the sensor probe affect measurement.
In addition, challenges associated with ultrasonic measurement include vacuum, dust, condensation, steam, temperature or build-up affecting readings, and limited ‘windows’ of usable distance. With free-space radar all these problems are eliminated as there is no contact and there are no dead zones.
Free-space radar technology is accurate and repeatable and can be used in an almost limitless range of applications, including water and wastewater treatment and the transfer of aggregates.
The LXRC sensor can be used throughout industrial processes and is easily fitted to a huge variety of machines and containers for the measurement of almost all bulk materials and liquids. This means just a single item for inventory and maintenance across an array of process application conditions.
Complete with mechanical process connections and communications capabilities, the compact 80GHz LXRC free space radar level sensor with IO-Link comes with standard analogue and digital outputs and is Industry 4.0 compatible. It is available with optional Bluetooth connectivity for easy commissioning and diagnostics on a tablet or smartphone via the SICK app.
The impressive range of up to 15m is suitable for large tanks and silos, while the device is highly accurate to +/-2mm. An operating temperature range from –40°C to 130°C and process pressure range from -1 bar to 16 bar make the LXRC sensor suitable for use in harsh environments.
Complete with eye-height status indication, the device has short lead times and comes with expert support. SICK’s experienced teams work closely with customers to solve their application problems with the best possible solution from the company’s huge portfolio of sensing technology.
Nick Hartley, SICK UK market product manager - instrumentation and distance measurement, said: ‘Sensors are the unsung heroes when it comes to material handling and transfer. The LXRC sensor solves a range of industry challenges associated with contact and ultrasonic technology and can be used on almost anything continuously measured and controlled. It performs strongly in harsh environments and throughout multiple operations, providing a single solution to meet many customer needs.
‘We are delighted to offer a hi-tech solution for factory automation that provides high accuracy and repeatability, with commissioning and maintenance reduced to a minimum.’
