Background:
A leading industrial client in Zimbabwe required a high-precision radar level measurement solution for their cement silo, which is used for storing powdered cement. The silo stands at approximately 12 meters tall, and the client needed a reliable system that could effectively measure the cement levels despite the challenging, dusty environment typical in cement storage.
Challenges:
The measurement of powdered cement, a material with low dielectric properties, posed difficulties for conventional level sensors.
The silo’s height of 12 meters required a solution capable of measuring large distances with high accuracy.
Dust and airborne particles within the silo could interfere with conventional measurement technologies.
Solution:
After evaluating the requirements, we proposed the 80GHz Radar Level Sensor, a robust and precise solution designed specifically for use in dusty environments. The sensor was chosen due to its advanced features, which are ideal for measuring materials such as powdered cement.
Technical Specifications:
Measuring Medium: Powdered Cement
Measuring Range: 0-35 meters, with the ability to handle the full height of the 12-meter silo
Accuracy: ±1mm, ensuring precise measurement even in challenging conditions
Frequency: 76-81GHz, enabling stable performance in dusty and low-dielectric environments
Beam Angle: 3°, ensuring focused energy for better signal penetration and stronger echo reliability
Output: 4-20mA + HART / RS485 Modbus, offering easy integration with existing control systems
Protection Rating: IP67, ensuring durability and reliability in harsh environmental conditions
Power Supply: DC24V, with other options available for flexible installation
Antenna: Lens antenna with air purge system to reduce dust interference
Installation:
The radar level meter was installed with a flange connection, ensuring a secure and stable setup at the top of the silo. The sensor was positioned with a minimum distance of 200mm from the silo wall, following the installation requirements for optimal performance.
Results:
The 80GHz Radar Level Sensor provided accurate and reliable level measurements of the cement, even in the dusty silo environment.
The sensor’s ability to measure up to 35 meters allowed it to easily handle the height of the silo.
The air purge system in the antenna effectively minimized dust build-up, ensuring consistent and stable measurements over time.
Integration with the client’s existing system was seamless, and the data output provided real-time monitoring of cement levels, improving operational efficiency.
Conclusion:
The 80GHz Radar Level Meter proved to be an ideal solution for cement level measurement in Zimbabwe’s silo, offering high accuracy and reliability in a challenging environment. This successful deployment demonstrates the effectiveness of radar technology in industrial applications, particularly where traditional level measurement systems may struggle.