Ore Storage in Silos
The mined ore is transported with conveyor systems to large above ground or underground silos and stored there until it is fed to subsequent process stages. Temperature changes as well as intense dust and noise generation characterize these storage silos. Ore lump size and angle of repose should not influence the level measurement. In this situation, non-contacting level measurement is ideal for monitoring the content of the silos reliably and without the danger of equipment breakdown.
Level Measurement with the VEGAPULS 68
The VEGAPULS 68 is designed for level measurement of bulk solids under extreme conditions. With a sensitivity much higher than conventional radar sensors, it is able to measure up to 230 ft (70 m) in silos for bulk solids. The high emitting frequency of the sensor (K band) and the specially optimized antenna for bulk solids achieve very strong focusing. Neither the angle of repose nor dust generation nor the size of the ore lumps has an influence on the measuring results. Thanks to the non-contact microwave measuring principle, the sensor is 100 percent wear-free.
Overfill Protection with the VEGACAP 65
In addition to the continuous level measurement, a second, independent sensor is applied as overfill protection. In ore silos that place such high demands on the stability of the measurement technology, the capacitive measuring principle is the right choice. Extreme robustness and easy set-up characterize the capacitive level switch VEGACAP 65. The four different pluggable electronics modules provide optionally relay contact (DPDT), transistor output (PNP/NPN), contactless switch, and two-wire output for Ex applications. The switching condition of VEGACAP 65 is indicated on a two-color LED and is visible on the outside of the plastic housing.
Mill Discharge Collecting Container
In the extraction of gold, platinum and silver, ball mills are used to reduce the ore to a lump size that is suitable to the process. Water is used to protect the mills from overheating. At the same time, the water also prevents excessive dust generation. The spent water is discharged from the mill and collected in a special container. This container must be continuously monitored to limit the torque load on the motors and achieve optimal mill efficiency. The measured material varies from plain process water to thick suspension. Foam, steam and build-up characterize this process environment.
Level Measurement with the VEGAFLEX 61
Continuous level measurement in the mill discharge collecting container is realized with the VEGAFLEX 61. The guided microwave principle defies the harshest application conditions imaginable. Due to its microwave technology, the VEGAFLEX 61 operates completely independent of process conditions. The extremely easy set-up of the sensor requires neither filling nor emptying of the container. the VEGAFLEX 61 is delivered factory-calibrated to the 0 and 100% adjustment levels and provides accurate level data immediately after electrical connection.
Level Measurement with the VEGAFLEX 62
If measuring lengths greater than 105 ft (32 m) are required, or if the mill discharge contains so much solid material that strong tensile forces act on the cable, VEGAFLEX 62 is the right choice.
