Silo level measurement.

• 
• 8th May 2006
• Materials Handling
 

LINPAC Plastic Recycling is the UK's leading recycler of post-use rigid plastics with abilities still quite unique, both in the UK and Europe as a whole. Founded in 1991, the plant has become highly proficient in the recycling of a wide range of rigid plastics, especially in polystyrene, polyethylene and polypropylene both industrial and post-use in origin.

This Environmental Agency licensed site now has a capacity of 28,000Te, which is set to increase to 30,000Te in the next four years. Customer demand and the rapid progress of environmental legislation in the packaging, automotive and electrical sectors, continue to drive expansion. The site became accredited to generate Packaging Recovery Notes (PRN's) under the Packaging Waste Regulations 1997 and sits at the heart of the plastic recycling industry's efforts to deal professionally with the legislation in all three areas.
Problem

LINPAC wanted an easy, cost effective way of measuring and distributing accurate silo levels both internally and to two of their customers. This was to enable effective inventory information and efficient scheduling of delivery. Daily updates of usage/available capacity was needed without the need of expensive telemetry software, telephone lines etc.

Solution
VEGA have provided the solution in their VEGAFLEX guided microwave devices which measure the silo level, even during filling and emptying, regardless of surface angle, build up and vessel obstructions. This is because the measuring signal is simply guided down and back up a cable suspended from top to bottom in the vessel.

At the 'back end' of this level system is a VEGAMET, which is not only communicating/powering the mini network of level devices, it is also connected directly to the company Ethernet network and uses their ‘Domino’ e-mail system to send e-mailed level readings daily (these can either be embedded or attached to be used by other standard software such as an excel spreadsheet or access database program) to all departments and suppliers.

Cost effective
This system can quickly repay its cost by removing returned deliveries, production outages through lack of raw materials as well as personnel climbing silo's to manually 'dip'. This low cost system can handle up to 15 measuring points and it offers excellent value with Ethernet ready systems starting at under £600. VEGAMET/SCAN are also capable data-logging, sending e-mails on alarm, publishing a web page even sending a text message. The signal conditioners are ideal for networked and remote site inventory for liquids and solids, from individual silo’s to large scale and tank farms. ATEX approved versions are also available.

To see how easy it is, and the extensive capabilities available contact VEGA for a live demonstration.

VEGA Controls Ltd
Kendal House, Victoria Way
Burgess Hill,
RH15 9NF
W. Sussex
Tel: 01444 870055
Email: doug.anderson@uk.vega.com
Web: www.vegacontrols.co.uk

Associated Links

• Hub-4 Profile of VEGA Controls Ltd
• VEGA Controls Ltd Company Website