Articles

Pyrum plant sets standards in industry 4.0. In Dillingen, in the heart of the Saarland steel district, PYRUM Innovations turns old tyres into new raw materials Oil, recovered carbon black and gas are generated in the process and fed back into industry. This is the result of 15 years of hard work, a green entrepreneurial spirit and Industry 4.0, in order to ensure stable control of all processes. VEGA sensors are also a vital component, as they perform reliable monitoring of all levels and pressures. In the beginning was the idea. Someone had obviously taken a close look and not only realised that there was a huge problem, but also set out to find a solution. The problem came to a head around 2008, when the sheer volume of scrap tyres became unmanageable and no sensible use for them could be found. Piled high, they sometimes caught the eye in temporary storage in tyre workshops, but time and again one could see them piled up in the driveways of farms or lying abandoned on the roadside. Anyone who has a car probably wonders from time to time what happens to the tyres they have just replaced, as over three million tonnes…

UWT vibrating level switches - Safe cleaning and descaling with nitric acid – process reliability in the dairy industry In dairy processing, nitric acid (HNO₃) is specifically used to descale pipelines, heat exchangers and tank systems. Safe handling of this aggressive chemical is essential – both to protect the equipment and to ensure the safety of personnel. Cleaning is carried out as part of proven and standardised CIP (Cleaning in Place) processes that ensure the hygienic integrity of the production system. Concentrated acids or alkalis are often used for this purpose. These are stored in dedicated tanks and diluted to the required concentration during the cleaning cycle directly within the production system. For safe storage, nitric acid is kept in corrosion-resistant stainless steel tanks – ensuring long-term stability and reliable availability within the CIP system. The focus of this application is on the use of chemically resistant materials in all installed sensors to ensure long-term functional reliability and maximum process safety under demanding conditions. For…

After three decades in continuous operation, a recent site inspection of five plastic granule silos revealed that UWT’s level sensors, manufactured in 1990, still provide flawless measurement signals for the plastics industry. Solving Inefficiency in Granule Storage Management At an industrial facility with 9-meter silos for plastic granules, operators struggled with unreliable level data for years. This lack of transparency forced reactive ordering rather than strategic planning, leading to increased costs and wasted effort during periods of fluctuating plastic prices. Accurate data isn’t just a technical requirement; it’s a financial necessity for modern supply chain management. A Surprising Discovery of 1990s Engineering A technical audit by UWT’s service team revealed that the silos were equipped with SLS 100 mechanical plumb bob systems; the direct predecessor to the current NivoBob series. These units, manufactured on February 13, 1990, had survived over 35 years of continuous industrial use. The discovery underscores a technical design so robust that it remains functional well beyond typical industry life cycles. Root Cause Analysis Vindicates Sensor Performance The technical…

To guarantee stable operation, both continuous level measurement and precise point level detection are essential. Ice cream is one of the world’s favorite foods. At the start of production, raw milk must be stored under strictly controlled hygienic conditions. Reliable level measurement plays a key role in ensuring smooth processes, enabling efficient cleaning cycles, and allowing flexible integration into dairy applications. In a typical ice cream production plant, raw milk is temporarily held in an agitated vessel before further processing. At the same time, challenges such as agitators, confined installation conditions in outlet pipes, and regular CIP/SIP cleaning cycles must be addressed. Process Challenges * High hygiene requirements for raw milk handling * Frequent cleaning with chemically demanding CIP/SIP processes * Agitators influencing the product surface * Limited installation space in outlet piping UWT Solution Concept: Radar and Vibration Technology Combined For continuous level monitoring, a NivoRadar® NR 8400 is installed in the tank. Complementing…

4B Manganese Steel Wear Rails provide a low friction, highly wear-resistant ‘running surface’ for conveyor drag chains. Specifically designed for the use with drop forged, heat-treated chain links, 4B Manganese Steel Wear Rails provide a low friction, highly wear-resistant ‘running surface’ for conveyor drag chains. They extend the life of chain conveyor casing bottom plates (and other areas, depending on machine design, handled material and application), protecting against costly wear and premature casing panel replacement. Benefits of work hardening and low friction The combination of a ductile core and a hardened surface results in a durable solution for heavily loaded conveyor systems. The low-friction running surface reduces energy consumption and minimises stress on the conveyor chain, contributing to extended component life and lower operating costs. * Increased wear resistance through work hardening * Extended service life of conveyor casings * Reduced energy consumption due to low friction * High toughness with good formability * Non-magnetic material properties Applications…

Compaction of Ultra-Lightweight Powders as a Logistics Efficiency Factor Ultra-lightweight powders such as pigments, carbon black, silica, cellulose fibres or specialty additives present a fundamental challenge: During filling, the material contains a high proportion of air. If this air is not specifically removed, it significantly reduces the effective product quantity per bag and per transport unit. The Influence of Bulk Density on Container Utilization A standard 20-foot container typically holds approximately: 10,080 kg per container when pigments are packed using conventional filling methods. By applying vacuum-assisted compaction during the filling process, container loads of up to 27,600 kg per container can be achieved. This corresponds to an increase of: +17,520 kg of product per container. The product, container size and mode of transport remain unchanged. The difference lies solely in the reduction of the air content within the bag. Economic Considerations Assuming a product value of €200 per kilogram, the calculation is as follows: 17,520 kg × €200/kg = €3,504,000 additional product value per container. This example illustrates the significant impact…

The processing of copper scrap involves many precisely coordinated processes. When it comes to level instrumentation, Montanwerke Brixlegg relies on radar technology from VEGA. Very few companies can look back on over 550 years of company history. The Brixlegg copper-silver smelter appeared in documents for the first time in 1463. Copper and silver ores were mined there and refined into pure metals up until the 20th century. Since 1890, secondary materials containing copper have been increasingly used as raw materials instead of ores. “While the challenges back then were for the most part exclusively mining problems, today they are much broader. We are now responsible for maintaining a positive interplay between people, the environment and the economy,” explains Patrick Oberladstätter, Head of Electrical Engineering at Montanwerke Brixlegg in Tyrol. Today, Montanwerke Brixlegg AG is a 100 % upcycling company with more than 350 employees and one of the most important industrial operations in western Austria. The plant in Brixlegg is considered a specialist in copper recycling and the associated copper refining. But there is more to it:…

Reliable sensor and system solutions for liquids and bulk solids – ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable processes In the chemical industry, precision is essential at every stage of production. Whether storing, mixing, or dosing liquids and bulk solids, accurate level measurement protects people, the environment, and equipment, safeguards product quality, and prevents overfilling or dry running. Early leak detection further enhances operational safety. As an experienced partner to the process industry, UWT supports plant engineers and operators worldwide with comprehensive solutions for level measurement, monitoring, and visualization – from individual process lines to centralized plant control systems. Measurement solutions that make a difference The chemical industry is as diverse as its products. A wide range of media – from aggressive acids and alkalis to solvents, abrasive powders, and sticky pastes – requires precisely tailored measurement technology. With its broad product portfolio, UWT covers all key application areas: * Point level detection using capacitive,…

Why standardized systems are often the better choice in bulk material handling. In industrial bulk material processing, custom-built solutions are often seen as the gold standard. Complex products, demanding processes and high requirements for efficiency and safety frequently lead to highly individualized machine concepts. However, in practice, one thing becomes clear: a large share of applications follows recurring, well-defined patterns. This is exactly where standardized filling and bagging systems come into play. Standard applications dominate the market Whether powders, granules or free-flowing bulk materials – around 80% of industrial filling tasks operate within clearly defined parameters. Conveying systems, dosing principles and bag or container types are often very similar. For these applications, a fully customized system is usually not required – and often not the most economical choice. Instead, preconfigured and proven systems are gaining importance. All systems follow the same principle: clear configurations, reduced variant…

4B Group Introduces Maintenance Packages to Enhance Safety and Operational Uptime 4B Group offers tailored maintenance packages designed to help customers maximise safety, reliability, and operational uptime across their facilities. Delivered by the 4B Technical Team, these packages include site inspection services, training for engineers on testing equipment, and access to Hazardmon.com for remote hazard monitoring. Together, these services support proactive maintenance, early risk detection, and improved operational efficiency. Customers are encouraged to contact 4B Group to learn more about how these maintenance solutions can support safer and more efficient operations.

Eskilstuna Energi & Miljö’s biomass power plant on Kungsgatan in central Eskilstuna has invested in a new reject chipper from FB Kedjor. This is a successful local collaboration in which EEM utilises all of its fuel. Previously, the company had to pay to have fuel removed that was too large and unusable. Torbjörn Bånkestad, maintenance planner at EEM, explains: ”We have fuel that is too large to be burned directly. The material must be chipped into smaller fractions so that we can use it. Wood Chipping and conveying Thanks to the new reject chipper, which FB Kedjor designed, manufactured and installed for us in collaboration with BT Konstruktion, we can shred the wood fuel and transport it directly via chain conveyors. The chipper system consists of a feed table that is loaded with a wheel loader. This is followed by a chain conveyor to the chipper, an FBWRS 10-11V, which is fed from above and shreds the material to the desired size before it falls into a feed screw. The screw conveys the wood chips further into the storage container.” Sustainable solutions that increase profitability…

The requirements for modern bagging solutions in the food and animal feed industry continue to increase. With the BVP Pneumatic Packer Full-Line, Greif-Velox offers a fully automated solution specifically designed to meet these demands. In addition to high hygiene standards, flexibility with changing bag formats, reproducible dosing accuracy, and high system availability are key factors. At the heart of the line is the pneumatic BVP packer, which is particularly suitable for fine, dusty, or poorly flowing products. By pneumatically conveying and compacting the product inside the bag, a uniform fill level is achieved while ensuring low-dust filling – a decisive advantage for sensitive food and feed applications. The pneumatic packer is complemented by a range of automated functions that ensure a stable and efficient overall process: Integrated Full-Line with Intelligent Automation - Low-dust filling for clean production environments - Automatic filling spout dedusting for product-clean changeovers - Precise weighing for consistent quality of every bag - Fully automatic bag centering for changing bag formats - Automatic height adjustment for a uniform pallet pattern - Pneumatic turbo gripper…

Muller Beltex is Europe’s specialist in elevator buckets, with Columbus, Starco and Super Starco models in pressed steel, stainless steel, HDP, polyurethane or nylon. Muller Beltex provides premium elevator buckets in steel and plastic to enhance bulk handling performance. Their diverse range focuses on durability, efficiency, and customized fit for every industrial application. Elevator buckets for every application Muller Beltex supplies various steel elevator buckets, including Columbus, Euro-Norm, and Jet types. These are available in mild steel or stainless steel, offering robust performance for heavy-duty applications. For lighter materials or specialized needs, the company offers plastic buckets like Starco and Super Starco. Made from HDPE, Nylon, or Polyurethane, these provide excellent wear resistance and reduce overall belt load. Custom solutions for maximum throughput and efficiency Choosing the right bucket is crucial for maximizing elevator capacity. Muller Beltex assists customers in selecting the ideal shape and material to minimize product damage while increasing the total system throughput. Below you will…

For many years, FB Ketten has been supplying asphalt-plants with high-quality spare parts for elevators and offering plant audits and wear measurements. For many years, FB Ketten has been supplying asphalt-plants with high-quality spare parts for elevators and offering plant audits and wear measurements. FB Ketten manufactures and distributes ready-to-install * elevator chains (double strand and central chains) * wear-resistant tooth segments and drive-segments * split sprockets and * elevator buckets Lower TCO, higher ROI The focus is on durable and ready-to-install chain solutions and conveyor-optimisation. Field tests of FB111 bucket elevator chains (comparable to ER111) in a gravel plant in Switzerland have shown that FB elevator chains had less chain elongation than competing products. The result is higher plant uptime, lower total cost of ownership (TCO) and, therefore, higher return on investment (ROI). Proven chain solutions for drum drives * Rotary chains * individual teeth for bolting or welding to the drums and * ready-to-install sprockets. Plant audits and wear measurements FB Ketten…

RF Technology Decoded by UWT – How Electrical Signals Deliver Reliable Level Detection RF technology (Radio Frequency Capacitance) uses high-frequency measurement for precise level detection. Unlike purely capacitive sensors, it detects not only changes in capacitance but also the specific resistance of the medium. This ensures reliable measurement even under challenging conditions. How does RF technology work? The principle is based on an electrical voltage divider. Together with the medium, the probe forms a measuring system that detects both capacitance and impedance. Impedance describes the total electrical resistance a medium presents to an alternating current. It indicates how strongly a material reacts to electrical signals – and this change is exactly what RF technology uses for reliable detection. When the material comes into contact with the electrode, the capacitance increases abruptly – a clear signal that the level has been reached. The longer the active electrode, the more sensitively the probe responds. This allows the measurement…

UWT Sensors Monitor IBCs from the Outside Safe storage and reliable monitoring of caustic soda in a dairy application UWT has introduced a smart, non-contact level measurement solution for aggressive media stored in Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs). This system uses external sensors, eliminating direct contact with corrosive agents like caustic soda for safer, flexible, and more sustainable monitoring in plants. Safe and Flexible Monitoring of Aggressive Media Smaller dairies often use IBC containers for aggressive disinfectants like caustic soda (NaOH) instead of large stationary tanks. This practical approach allows the medium to be diluted and fed into cleaning-in-place (CIP/SIP) systems. UWT’s solution provides non-contact monitoring from outside the tank, ensuring a safer and more flexible operation. Non-Contact Continuous Level Measurement The continuous level measurement is handled by the NivoRadar® NR 7100. This free-radiating 80 GHz FMCW radar sensor is mounted vertically above the…

PolyFlow improves conveyor efficiency with consistent airflow PolyFlow has been specifically designed for the concepts and principles of fluidization, ensuring better performance and a longer operating life compared to conveyor products that are merely used in fluidization applications. Traditional air flow fabrics are usually of a solid woven construction. This type of material can have “hot spots” caused by uneven air flow through the weave, leading to lack of fluidity and reduced capacity. PolyFlow gives an even air distribution to ensure a good cushion for a consistent flow with virtually no abrasion wear. Unlike solid woven belts, PolyFlow does not need to have the edges heat or silicone sealed to prevent air loss, and the needle felt material is easy to cut and drill for flange fitting. The design and construction offer several significant advantages over solid woven fabrics: Key Advantages of PolyFlow Fabric * Uniform and Consistent Airflow: The needled construction ensures even air distribution, preventing…

Continuous Level and Point Level Measurement in Glue Applications for the Paper and Packaging Industry. Even with Sticky Liquids and Agitated Tanks Corrugated board has become an essential part of everyday life. Whether it’s used for shipping boxes, product packaging, or sturdy transport solutions, this lightweight, robust, and fully recyclable material meets the highest standards in terms of sustainability, flexibility, and stability. Its characteristic structure is created by shaping a layer of paper using corrugating rollers to form the typical wave profile. Depending on the desired strength and design, the corrugated layer is bonded with one or more flat paper layers using glue. Proper storage and precise monitoring Even with Sticky Liquids and Agitated Tanks. A crucial element in this production process is glue. It guarantees the permanent bonding of the paper layers and must be available in consistent quality and quantity. Therefore, proper storage and precise monitoring of the adhesive are vital for maintaining an uninterrupted production process. Glue Storage Application Requirements for Level…

Sensitive UWT Measurement Solutions for the Pneumatic Conveying and Storage of Ultra-Fine Silicon Dioxide Silicon dioxide, also known as silica, is used across many industries – from paint and plastics manufacturing to food and pharmaceutical, and in producing modern insulation materials. In chemical process engineering especially, this fine-grained, often fluidized powder places high demands on storage, conveying, and level monitoring. An insulation material production project shows how UWT sensor solutions operate reliably even with extremely fine-grained, pneumatically conveyed silica. Despite heavy dust loads and low bulk density, these sensors enable precise and process-secure level and point level measurement. In a plant that produces heat and sound insulation boards, highly dispersed silica (SiO₂) is temporarily stored in vertical silos approximately 25 m high before further processing. The aim was accurate material detection – both for continuous level measurement and point level detection. THE APPLICATION - Combined Level and Point Level Detection…

The greatest advantages of pneumatic knockers: particularly powerful, efficient and comparatively light Impact frequency knockers, interval knockers, shakers and vibrators: they are all used to make bulk materials flow better. Knocking on demand - this is best done with a pneumatic knocker. And no other knocker can produce such a high impact effect with the same size as the pneumatic singold knocker. What are the greatest advantages of pneumatic knockers? Have you ever walked through your plant and seen impact marks on cyclones, bins or silos? In all those cases where the flow of material was restarted with a hammer blow, a pneumatic knocker could have been used more efficiently and with less impact on the material. Unlike shakers, vibrators and even interval knockers, a pneumatic magnetic system knocker can knock on demand - whenever it is needed. This provides the following advantages: * For some products, constant knocking tends to condense the material flow rather than promote it. A single, targeted blow is much more effective here than a vibrator. * Well-directed…

Reliable sensor solutions for maximum hygiene, efficiency and transparency Whether it’s dairy products, brewery goods, rice, coffee or other items from the food and beverage industry – they are a vital part of our daily lives and demand high standards from industrial processes. To ensure quality, safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness at all times, the industry depends on precise, certified and adaptable measurement technology throughout the entire process chain. UWT offers a specialised portfolio of level measurement sensors and monitoring solutions that fully meet the industry’s specific requirements. Highest Demands on Technology, Processes and Quality The food and beverage industry is one of the most demanding sectors worldwide. From the delivery and sorting of raw materials to processing, maturation, filling, packaging and logistics – every step of the process must meet the highest standards. Hygiene regulations, product safety, traceability and sustainability are just as critical today as energy efficiency and digital…

Smart sensor technology for reliable measurement and visual monitoring – even in dusty environments, narrow silos, and sensitive process conditions Ingredients such as flour, salt or dry yeast are often stored in compact silos within the food industry – frequently connected directly to mixing or dosing systems. Dust, confined vessel geometries, and short measuring distances place high demands on the sensor technology. UWT’s radar sensors and vibrating level switches reliably meet these challenges and ensure stable, automated processes – even with light, fine-grained materials. Challenging conditions for level measurement Sensors used in food production must deliver precise and reliable performance, even under difficult conditions. This includes handling fine, lightweight bulk solids prone to bridging. Additional challenges include short measuring distances, limited installation space, and strict hygiene requirements. At the same time, integration into existing systems should be as simple and straightforward as possible. Smart sensor solutions from UWT Precise, compact, reliable; UWT offers a robust…

Flow in a silo can be promoted with a hammer. But the use of pneumatic knockers is a much better way. This gives maximum impact, without damage. APPLICATION The Pneumatic Knocker is used for bulk goods with flow problems, such as bridging, funnel flow and stagnant zones, when high speed shakers and vibrators with soft sine-shaped oscillations are no longer effective. Better than a hammer The effect of the knocker is comparable to the infamous "silo hammer", but without the damage a hammer can do. Dents by hammers wil complicate the material flow even more. And cracks and ruptures can also occur. The effectiveness of the knocker is evaluated according to the following rule: If the product can be knocked off or made to flow with a hand hammer, the Pneumatic Knocker is also effective. Mounting of the knocker The knocker is normally controlled by an electrical control system with a solenoid valve. Within the area where the knocking takes place there should be enough space for the impact to expand in all directions. Reinforcements of the silo walls and additional ribs should be avoided, as this increases…

This Polyurethane magnetic patch or liner can be installed quickly and safely without the use of welders or bolt fastening systems. Our products are made of high quality polyurethane and can be applied to any steel surface which have been proven to increase wear life, reduce down time and increase efficiency. Not only do these liners require no-bolt, no-glue or welding, they are also custom fit to each application so there is no cutting involved for the customer. All that is needed is a clean steel surface. Kryptane® Urethane magnetic wear liners * Constructed with Kryptane® Polyurethane * Imbedded High strength rare earth magnets allow for installation using magnetic force alone * No Bolting – No Welding – No Cutting to the applied area * Eliminates the need for Hot Work permits in most areas * Stay securely in place on vibrating screens and chutes * Can be repositioned easily and safely, when time permits, for the repair to be done permanently * Can be field trimmed to fit unusual surfaces or conditions, due to the polyurethane material * Custom Size Available Upon Request Redure…

singold gerätetechnik gmbh produces and sells the world’s most powerful pneumatic knocker. While competitor models can at best cover a wall thickness of up to 12 mm, the K160 can knock walls with a thickness of up to 25 mm. This makes it suitable for massive, heavy-duty containers. For example, it is used in the mining industry for discharge chutes, in the building materials industry for gravel bunker outlets, in the chemical industry for mixing plants, in the lime industry for silos with a capacity of over 200 tonnes and in the fertiliser industry. Supernatural Strength The powerful model has an impact energy of 423 newton metres. This corresponds to the energy generated when a weight of 42.3 kg is dropped from a height of 1 metre. This high impact energy cannot be achieved with human forces, even if a 20 kg sledgehammer were used. The reason? The acceleration and, consequently, the final velocity of the impact weight in the knocker is far higher than the final velocity that a human being can generate. When the piston, which is designed as a magnet, is…

Circular economy specialist Surplus Select is seeing an increasing demand for used machines, for the food, cosmetics or animal feed industries. What started out as a social mission to bring together suppliers and customers of used machines, has now grown into a circular economy mindset within the process industry. The Surplus Select circular economy initiative, founded in 2001, gives start-ups, R&D departments and pilot plants the opportunity to achieve limited-budget production by using pre-owned processing machines. "We started by offering very basic services, but now we have become a serious market player, and are being approached by large multinationals for the acquisition of high-quality, sustainable solutions”, says Rick Soepenberg, founder and owner of Surplus Select. Whether it’s machinery for the food, cosmetics or animal feed industries, Surplus Select has over 400 eye-catching machines at their 1500 m2 warehouse and 4000 m2 outdoor site in the Dutch village of Swifterbant; all waiting for new owners. According to Soepenberg, buying up large stocks of surplus machinery is a risky but nevertheless…

Explosion protection in grain storage: Level measurement & monitoring silos – reliable and certified for Ex zones Fine dust, explosive atmosphere – challenging conditions are part of everyday operations in grain processing. Especially in mills, where large quantities of grain, meal or flour are handled and processed, the risk of dust explosions is real – and often underestimated. This makes the use of reliable, ATEX/ IECEx-certified level measurement technology all the more important. Challenge: Level measurement in Ex zone 20/21 At a grain mill in Austria, intermediate storage in a 12-meter (39-foot) high silo had to be reliably monitored. The task: a combination of continuous level measurement and precise point level detection – to effectively prevent overfilling and material shortage. Key requirements also included easy integration into the existing control system, low maintenance, and full compliance with explosion protection regulations for zones 20 and 21. Additional challenges: heavy dust generation and temporary overpressure during the filling process. The…

The RHEWUM ScreenSpector app optimizes screening machine monitoring with tools like MeshConverter and VibSonic, available for iOS and Android. The RHEWUM app, known as ”RHEWUM ScreenSpector,” provides users of RHEWUM screening machines with tools for optimal utilization. Available for iOS and Android, it supports the operation and monitoring of screening machines with several key features: MeshConverter The MeshConverter simplifies the conversion of mesh sizes. It converts between DIN millimeters, inches, ASTM, and Tyler mesh units and offers advanced functions for calculating separation sizes for inclined screens. Users can input mesh sizes and angles to determine separation sizes in inches or millimeters. The tool supports calculations with any two values, making it a comprehensive solution for various screening scenarios. Additionally, the inclination angle (0°-45°) can be automatically determined using the smartphone’s sensors. VibSonic VibSonic transforms your smartphone into a powerful sound measurement device that measures sound levels across various frequencies. It calculates a mean…

The Easy 180E cable granulation system is a very efficient recycling system for recovering copper or aluminium from old and residual cable. Easy 180E cable pelletiser The machine is a self-contained system and can be used in one-man operation. The Easy 180E cable granulator can be used to process pre-shredded cables as well as uncut cables. Specifications * Compact design * Low space requirement * Simple operation * Low energy consumption * NEW: with vibration adjustment. Characteristics * Feed material: electric cable without impurities * Throughput capacity: up to 180 kg/h * Power consumption: approx. 8.5 kW * Weight: approx. 1200 kg * CE declaration of conformity

singold has the ideal pneumatic knocker for every system: high temperatures, special hygiene requirements, very large silos, etc. Even Distance-Knockers when direct mounting is not possible. Just as the application scenarios for pneumatic knockers are diverse, so too are the requirements. Whether high temperatures, special hygiene requirements or very large silos, singold gerätetechnik gmbh offers a wide range of pneumatic knockers so you’ll have no problem finding one perfectly suited to your specific needs. Application temperature is crucial The most important factor in selecting the optimum knocker is the application temperature. For temperatures up to 60 °C, a standard version with a plastic piston can be used. For applications above 60 °C, the piston is made of aluminium. Cover and anchor plate, tube and striker are made of aluminium, steel or stainless steel, depending on the individual application situation. The pneumatic knocker can even be used with wall temperatures of over 140 °C. A T-shaped welding plate to increase the distance to the hot wall, a heat-dissipating plate and a heat insulation plate are available as accessories in this…

Screening plays a crucial role in optimizing its functionality by controlling particle size to match the needs of specific applications. Bentonite, a versatile clay mineral valued for its absorbent and swelling properties, is essential across diverse industries. From drilling fluids to cosmetics, bentonite’s unique characteristics make it invaluable, yet challenging to process efficiently. Here’s an overview of bentonite’s applications and the specialized screening techniques that address processing challenges. Key Applications of Bentonite - Drilling Fluids: Bentonite is used in drilling for oil, gas, and water due to its ability to stabilize borehole walls, cool drill bits, and suspend cuttings. Fine particles (75-150 microns/ 100-200 mesh) are crucial here, as they prevent clogging and create a stable slurry. - Foundry Sand Binder: In casting molds, coarser bentonite particles (150-250 microns/ 60-100 mesh) ensure structural integrity and prevent excessive dust, helping molds retain their shape during metal casting. - Iron Ore Pelletization: Fine, uniform particles (45-150 microns/ 100-325…

Problems with flow? Bridging, funnel flow, stagnant zones can be counteracted with a pneumatic knocker, when vibration is not enough. The pneumatic knocker is used for bulk goods with material flow problems for instance bridging, funnel flow and residue formations, when high speed shakers and vibrators with soft sine-shaped oscillations are no longer effective. The effect of the knocker is comparable to that of the famous “silo hammer”, but without distorted silo spouts additionally impeding the material flow. The knocker is normally controlled by an electrical control system with a solenoid valve. Within the area where the knocking takes place there should be enough space for the impact to expand in all directions. Reinforcements of the silo walls and additional ribs should be avoided, as this increases the weight and the strength of the silo walls and thus reduces the effect of the knocker. The Pneumatic Knocker produces an ideal elastic shock that is specified as the impact energy E = m/2 × v2 [kgm/s2 = Nm] and as impulse J = m × v [kgm/s = Ns]. There is no impact force or out-of-balance…

Customized Dual-Sensor Solution for Low-Density Bulk Material A prominent expanded polystyrene (EPS) manufacturer from the USA was faced with major challenges when it came to fill level measurement due to the special properties of the material. The very low bulk density and the particular storage conditions made it difficult for conventional sensors to accurately recognise and detect the fill levels. UWT offered an effective solution by installing two different level sensors: a rotary paddle level switch and a vibrating fork in combination. The challenge: Material properties and storage conditions Two major challenges had to be overcome in the EPS production plant in order to ensure effective and reliable operation: Low bulk density: Due to the very low bulk density, EPS materials settle at the bottom of the silos and compact there. This compaction can create a more dense material layer, which facilitates the operation of level sensors. However, as the material level increases, the density and compression decreases,…

Precise level measurement is a key factor for efficiency and safety in modern industry. UWT offers a comprehensive range of solutions that combine various technologies and measurement principles. From LED digital displays to web server modules with visualisation software – the systems are flexibly adaptable and highly versatile. Versatile Measurement Principles Depending on the medium and application, different measurement principles are employed. Reliable point level measurement is ensured by level switches such as tuning fork sensors, rotary paddle detectors, capacitive sensors, or vibration rods. For continuous level measurement, guided wave radar systems or non-contact radar sensors are suitable. Additionally, interface measurement enables the precise detection of phase boundaries between different media, such as liquids of varying densities or solid and liquid phases, contributing to the optimisation of complex processes. Flexibility in Visualisation Visualisation solutions deliver information exactly where it is needed – whether in the production hall, the office, on mobile devices, or at external locations. Depending on the requirements, the…

The processing of silica and silica gel requires precise and specialized screening technology. These materials, whether as a desiccant, carrier material or additive, pose complex challenges due to their specific properties such as different particle sizes, hygroscopic nature, dust formation and abrasiveness. Especially when used in food supplements, purity and gentle product processing are crucial. Screening ensures compliance with strict quality standards by classifying the materials into particle sizes and removing unwanted particles such as fine dust or oversized particles. This optimizes both further processing and the overall quality of the end product. Screening of silica powder and gel In the processing of silica and silica gel, screening machines are used in several production steps: - Dedusting: removal of fine dust (<0.1 mm/ 140 mesh) to minimize clumping and dust pollution. - Classification: separation into specific fractions, e.g. 0.1-0.5 mm (140 – 35 mesh) for powdery products or 1-6 mm (18-3 mesh) for granulates - Oversize separation:…

At Muller Beltex, we offer you an innovative solution that not only prevents wear, but also significantly extends the service life of your systems: Kryptane sheeting. In industry, component wear is a common problem. This often leads to unforeseen downtime and increased maintenance costs. At Muller Beltex, we offer an innovative solution that not only prevents wear and tear, but also significantly extends the life of your installations: Kryptane lining. Durability and retention of material properties Kryptane’s strength lies in its unique material properties. While other polyurethane materials harden over time due to exposure to ozone, oils or greases, Kryptane’s properties are retained. As a result, its wear resistance remains stable even after years of intensive use. This material lasts much longer than other polyurethane and polyurea materials, which translates into an extended service life for your parts. Comparison with other materials Compared to other wear-reducing materials such as Hardox, rubber and polyethylene, Kryptane offers an impressive tool life extension of three to five times. This result is achieved because…

RG4 High Temp Level Sensor (+200°C) is ATEX Zone 20/21 approved, easy to install, versatile, and ensures safety in explosive dust environments. The RG Series Level Sensors have been designed to indicate the presence or absence of bulk materials such as grains, pellets, chemicals, wood chips and other powders. The detection of material is achieved by a rotating paddle. If material impedes the rotation of the paddle, the motor topples of its axis and triggers an alarm. The RG Series has a variety of compatible paddles which offer the ability to detect a wide range of products. Specifications * Operating Temp +200°C. * ATEX approved for Zone 20/21 * Easy to install. Specific tools or settings are not required. * Extremely versatile. * Provides the highest standard of safety in the presence of potentially explosive dusts/powders. * Probe can be adapted to the material monitored thanks to the wide range of paddles available. Visit the 4B website for more information on the RG4 High Temp Level Sensor.

UWT GmbH has successfully completed a challenging project at one of the largest cement plants in Kazakhstan. The plant operator required a solution for a reliable continuous measurement process in the cement silo. Dusty and particularly harsh conditions prevail in the building materials industry, in quarries or in mining. High demands are placed on level measuring devices - solid sensor technology with uncompromising robustness and unrestricted reliability are therefore of the utmost importance. The significant challenges in this project lay in the extreme environment - characterised by high dust formation, lump formation, and high process temperatures. In addition, the installation of the sensor required it to be mounted on an existing, high set nozzle. Electromechanical lot system The NivoBob® electromechanical lot sensor was successfully used for permanent level measurement within the silo. The UWT lot system was the first choice for this, as it can be adapted to specific installation requirements thanks to its modular design and its wide range of configuration options. At the Kazakh plant, the tape version of the NivoBob® - NB 3200 was used as the resilient solution,…

This high-end GKM tumbler screening machine has been specially designed and adapted to meet the requirements of the food and pharmaceutical industries. In order to fit the limited space, GKM Siebtechnik manufactured this double capacity machine. The idea is to split the product into several decks to ensure very high throughput in a small footprint. A drainable design ensures an ideal internal and external high level cleaning process. The machine has an external as well as internal high-grade stainless steel design. The high-quality surface finish is polished and extrapolated to prevent product build-up to meet highest customer requirements. The contamination-free ULTRA-VARIO-SONIC screen cleaning system provides a much more efficient screening action for the ultra-fine cut points. With the GKM tumbler screener in combination with an ultrasonic cleaning even the finest cut point down to 20 microns can be realized. As a result of the cleaning method, the throughput is significantly increased on the same surface area. The patented fully pneumatic Twin System for deck lifting and clamping combined with quick-release…

Rotary vane sensors and radar sensors for complete control in the Waste-to-Energy Power Plant In a beautiful part of the UK, a waste-to-energy plant required a complete level control solution across the site. The Challenge In order to streamline the whole supply chain process for this, the customer sought one supplier who could provide a one-stop source of advice, expertise and products. The UWT UK team was able to do this by establishing a trusted relationship with the customer giving them security and certainty and of course total efficiency throughout the consultative process through to device installation. The Solution The whole application involved identifying the right products for both continuous and point level monitoring throughout the plant. For the point level measurement of fly ash within the filtration systems, various bespoke configurations of the Rotonivo® - RN 3002 rotary paddle level switch and the Mononivo® - MN 4030 vibrating rod were installed for the point level measurement of fly ash in the filter systems. It was important for…

UWT’s rotary paddle level switch ensures a reliable process in peanut butter production: UWT’s RN6004 eliminates frequent sensor failures and reduces downtime and costs One of the world’s largest peanut butter companies, with a production plant in Kentucky, was having issues with their level measurement sensors installed in the production area of their plant. To solve the problem, the Rotonivo® rotary paddle sensor was introduced, which significantly improved operational efficiency and reduced plant downtime. Once again, UWT has demonstrated its experience and commitment to providing innovative solutions to the industry. Malfunctions and high costs At their production plant in Kentucky, the peanut butter manufacturer had been dealing with constant problems with their measurement sensors. The rotary paddle sensors by another brand that they had previously installed had a very short life span, often failing within a day. Eliminating high levels of downtime The main problem that was causing the sensor to break down was salt and sugar build-up around the probe shaft, which the motor was unable to remove. At the same time, these…

UWT impresses with the first live presentation of the new Vibranivo® VN 7 vibrating fork The impact of the trade fair is still resonating at UWT: The experts for level measurement technology are incredibly proud of how enthusiastically visitors received the new Vibranivo® VN 7 vibrating fork. This ultra-compact vibrating fork was showcased live for the first time, and it’s certain that UWT will set new standards in liquid level monitoring with this innovation. With its versatile features and configuration options, the Vibranivo® VN 7 sensor is poised to revolutionise point level detection. From 10 to 14 June 2024, ACHEMA took place in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, where UWT presented its latest innovations in level measurement technology alongside its existing portfolio. ACHEMA is a leading international trade fair and the world forum for chemical engineering and all areas of the process industry. Held every three years, it once again provided an excellent platform for innovations this year. Without a doubt, the first presentation of the new Vibranivo®…

Precise level measurement in dusty environments: UWT’s vibrating level switch Mononivo® ensures the highest quality in the food industry A renowned producer of yerba mate in Argentina was faced with the challenge of reliably monitoring the limit levels in a new production plant. The product itself presented particular challenges: A high-dust suspension with a low density of 400 g/l - and the need for specific certification for the food sector. Given the importance of this monitoring of over 100 measuring points, the customer focused on the durability and reliability of the sensors to be used. The plant operator needed a solution for precise control of low and very low fill levels that could meet the demanding conditions of the dusty and lightweight product. Additionally, the sensors had to comply with strict food safety standards and offer high reliability across a multitude of measuring points. Precise measurement at minimum fill levels For these specific requirements, UWT GmbH selected the Mononivo® - MN 4020 vibration switch. This sensor impresses with its high sensitivity, which can be adjusted…

Level detectors detect media at a predefined position depending on the installation position. Level detectors are mainly installed as full or empty detectors in the upper or lower part of a silo or container. This prevents the silo from overfilling or running empty. In combination with a level sensor, this results in a redundant system which additionally increases plant safety. If a certain fill level is of particular interest, the sensors can also be used as demand detectors. There are different technologies for level detection, which have their advantages and disadvantages depending on the application. For the selection, numerous process conditions have to be considered, which the sensor technology has to cope with. In addition, the requirements for bulk solids sensors differ from those for liquid sensors. For this reason, UWT offers a broad portfolio of different technologies such as rotary paddle switches, vibration level switches and capacitive sensors. This allows us to individually address their requirements in order to always provide them with the…

Solution-oriented: Side-mounted radar sensor for continuous level measurement on fly ash hoppers In a coal power plant in South Carolina, continuous level measurement for fly ash hoppers was required. This specific challenge was effectively addressed by installing a side-mounted guided radar sensor with a 90° elbow shaft. In the energy sector, where environmental protection and safety are of high importance, UWT has once again demonstrated its ability to shine with thoughtful solutions and technical expertise. The challenge: Promoting environmental safety through precise level measurement. Fly ash is a byproduct of coal combustion and is an environmental hazard. Coal-fired power plants are obliged to collect this material for disposal or reuse. Precise level measurement is of the utmost importance in this context in order to avoid overfilling, which can lead to safety risks, high cleaning costs and possible fines. Proven methods, innovative approach In such situations, free-radiating sensors such as the NivoRadar® 3000 or NivoRadar® 4000 are usually…

Radar sensor from UWT is the bespoke solution for content measurement Continuous level monitoring devices regulate and control liquid or solid levels in a processing plant, helping to streamline the operation, eliminate human error and thus maximise overall efficiency. And so level control devices should be and are an investment that needs careful research and consideration to ensure that the investment in such kit is wisely made. Our customer, a large paper mill based in the UK, approached UWT UK Ltd to achieve all the above for the monitoring of their coal silo and in a backwater tank. A mechanical system in the coal silo and ultrasonic technology in the backwater tank had both failed leaving the monitoring task being executed manually using a tape measure dropped in through the tops of the silo and tank. Clearly, it was time to upgrade. So the customer approached UWT UK Ltd to visit and inspect the applications and to advise on a long term, reliable solution within budget. Time & consideration During the site visit the UWT…

The terms ‘functional safety’ and ‘safety integrity level (SIL)’ have occurred more frequently since the publication of the international standard IEC 61508/IEC61511. SIL2 for rotating paddle series Particularly in systems with hazard-causing processes, such as in chemical plants, the consideration of functional safety has become indispensable. On this basis safety-related practices, design principles and error considerations must be met in order to minimize the risk of a dangerous failure. Risk mitigation in accordance with SIL2 The UWT engineers focused on this topic and designed the rotating paddle switch Rotonivo® RN 6000 series according to the normative requirements of functional safety to ensure safety functions in a risk mitigation in accordance with SIL2. Typical safety functions are overfill and dry run protection. Full, demand or empty Depending on the requirements, the Rotonivo® rotary paddle switch is used as a full, demand or empty detector in storage silos or process vessels and is suitable for use in almost all solids. With its simple electromechanical measuring principle it can also be adapted for extreme…

Active batch balancing & food conformity & CIP suitability In the food industry, absolute hygiene is of crucial importance, with high demands being placed on the measurement technology to be installed in terms of design, functionality and reliability. In the beverage industry in particular, these requirements can be very specific. A Peruvian beer manufacturer was looking for suitable solutions for overfill and running-empty protection for its process tanks with different solid and liquid raw materials. The malt dosing system was designed with innovative RF technology. Capacitive limit switches from UWT were installed, which are designed for high temperatures and applications with highly caking materials such as the viscous liquid of the malt mixture. It tastes better when you know your limits The difficulty in beer production lies in controlling the correct malt dosage during the addition of water for dissolving. This was due to the fact that the grain became very sticky after moistening, which led to false alarms for…

Choose your suitable system for level monitoring & visualization from the UWT NivoTec® product portfolio Various technologies are available for level indication. Simple LED digital displays for the evaluation of a 4-20 mA signal for installation in control cabinets or up to wall mounted touch panels and web server modules with visualization software. These can then be configured on a project by project basis and adapted to customer requirements. UWT has standardized product versions of the NivoTec® NT 4000 series, which meet many requirements of a level indicator and monitoring at a cost effective price. The NT 2000 series includes control cabinet modules with local display and control elements, which is useful for a limited number of containers. The NivoTec® NT 3000 series can be individually adapted to the customer’s project. This web server solution meets all requirements of modern silo level monitoring.

A large grain storage facility in the south of England required a reliable content measuring device to replace an old acoustic wave system which was no longer functioning. Configured was a non-contact radar measurement device from UWT combined with a visualization software. Non-contact continuous level measurement UWT (UK) Limited proposed the use of the free-radiating radar NivoRadar® NR 3100 which could be supplied with an aiming flange. The integrated aiming flange allowed the radar to be mounted in the same position as the previous acoustic wave device which was close to the silo side wall and which allowed for the narrow 4˚ beam to be aimed towards the lowest point of the silo. This saved the customer time and money as they didn’t need to move the mounting position towards the centre of the silo where the silo was filled from. Free-radiating radar sensors can determine the level of a medium without contact. The so-called FMCW radar measurement method (Frequency Modulated Continous Wave) is used for this purpose. The transmitted signal is modulated between two known frequency values (NivoRadar® 78...79 GHz) and the difference…

Due to the flourishing construction industry, sand is now the second most traded raw material after water. But suitable sand resources are limited. RHEWUM has developed a solution to produce sand from widely spread gravel right next to the customer. A flourishing construction industry without sand is unthinkable. According to One Stone Consulting, around 10 to 15 billion tons of building sands are required worldwide each year (1). In addition, we need industrial sands, for example for fracking or the glass industry. This corresponds to a per capita sand consumption of about two to eight tons per year, so that a total of 40 to 50 billion tons of sand and gravel must be extracted. This makes sand the second most traded raw material after water (2). Since the demand for sand is growing faster than suitable sand resources can be found, sand is instead produced from gravel or transported over long distances. This is not environmentally reasonable. RHEWUM has developed a solution to process sand mobile and therefore directly on site. THE RAW MATERIAL Quartzite sand is mainly used in the construction industry. It consists of silicon dioxide (SiO2). The great hardness of the material (7° according to Mohs) is an advantage.…

Calcium carbonate is a material that originated from the remains of single-celled sea creatures over millions of years of Earth’s history. Today, it is the basis for a range of commonly used building materials, including limestone and dolomite. Finest separations up to 0.1 mm A British customer discussed with RHEWUM ways to renew an aging installation for processing calcium carbonate. Several existing sieving machines and sifters were to be replaced. Fine separations up to 0.1 mm were performed. Setting vibration during operation Machines with direct excitation of the screen fabrics were planned as the machine type. Drives for the decks on which coarser separations were to be performed were unbalanced motors. The decks for fine separations were equipped with oscillating heads that allow the vibration to be changed during operation via thyristor controllers. The machine types of choice were then RHEsono, RHEmoto and RHEfino as a combination of both types. For the task of feeding the material onto the machines, RHEside feeders with lateral feeding were used. Customer requirements were met With…

A German building materials manufacturer was looking for compatible level sensors in its narrow, high storage silos for very fine sand, among other things. A non-contact measurement with free-radiating radar measurement technology from UWT was preferred. The advantages of non-contact radar level measurement lie in its ability to provide accurate measurement regardless of the properties of the medium (e.g., density, dielectric constant). It also works in adverse environments with high temperatures, pressures, vibrations or dust. The NR 4100 has been installed in several storage silos for level measurement of very fine sand (0-1 mm). The high frequency 80 GHz radar sensor of the NivoRadar® series offers a high resolution as well as a robust design. - Max. adjustment: 1,000 m - Min. alignment: 15,000 m The echo profile looked top notch. Installation and commissioning were quick and straightforward. Pairing the devices via Bluetooth with the UWT LevelApp worked intuitively and ensures transparent and modern level monitoring. Special features of the application/application data: - Low DK value of the sand -…

Almost everyone is familiar with vibration dampers made of elastomers. When conditions get tougher, rubber-based vibration isolators reach their limits. Production in a multi-phase process, partly by hand The basis or the main element of every vibration damper is the damping pad made of stainless-steel wire. This is produced in a multi-stage process. First and foremost is the knitting of several stainless-steel wires into a stocking. This stocking is then rolled to create a mat. While these processes are automated, the next step is manual. The existing mat is pulled over a mandrel and brought into its mostly cylindrical shape. At the end of production, this blank is pressed and spot-welded to create an elastic molded part. This is used as a damping pad. Design parameters An element is characterized by the same values that describe the corresponding geometric shape. For the cylindrical cushion, the outer diameter, inner diameter and height are required as a basis. For a rectangular cushioning element, the width, length and height. Other shapes can be adapted based on the geometry. The volume or density can be deduced…

One of Italy’s largest building industry suppliers equipped its storing processes with suitable level measurement technology. The challenge was to find a system which can measure reliably even in this extremely dusty environment. Together with UWT a free-radiating continuous level measurement was configured. - Smart non-contact continuous radar determination Due to the fast development of the building and quarry industry in many European countries during the past years, the demand for more solution approaches for applications of cement plants has increased. Solutions of appropriate sensor technology for content and point level measurement have to be found in order to support the process flow of the cement production in the most reliable way. A manufacturer of concrete and plaster products for the building industry in Italy wanted to modernize his process flow with a redesign of the measuring equipment. Pre-dosed products are mainly offered, which are supposed to make life on the construction site easier. The manufacturer was amongst others looking for a reliable level measurement…

Innovative all-rounder for measuring all types of bulk materials that combines all important features of a reliable measurement technology and is additionally very user-friendly The significance of the gear mechanism is not to be underestimated. Many a “simple” type of component can soon become a problem if it’s not working reliably. In situations where level monitoring is required, costly events such as over filling of the silo can be avoided. Sensors have to be designed with a high degree of compatibility for processes, so that they can be seamlessly integrated into installations ensuring the optimal solution. All-rounder single rod probe We are often asked whether there is one measurement principle, which works reliably in all bulk solids applications? Is there one sensor that can cope with low bulk density, bridging, caking, abrasiveness, corrosion, high tension and leverage forces, high and low process temperatures and pressures, low and fluctuating dielectric value as well as being able to offer a short reaction time? To date, the answer to this question has been “no”, there has not been any one measuring principle to solve…

For the implementation of a reliable level limit measurement within lubricating oil pipelines of tyre production, the limited space situation as well as high material viscosity had to be considered in particular. Level limit measurement in pipelines with lubricating oil One of the largest global tyre manufacturers needed a reliable point level sensor to measure the level in a 3” tube with lubricating oil in their subsidiary in Argentina. Due to the viscosity of the material, not every measuring principle works in this installation situation. The crude oil has a DK value between 2 and 3, the process pressure can be up to 0.8 bar (11.6 psi) and the process temperature up to 80 °C (176 °F). In addition, there is a high moisture content with condensate within the atmosphere. In this case, the ideal solution was UWT’s Capanivo® CN 7000 capacitive point level sensor. The sensor has a ½” stainless steel thread and a PPS probe. The integrated active build-up compensation prevents incorrect switching due to material adhesion around the probe. Its reduced installation length ensured optimal implementation within the 3” pipe. Together with the local partner KDK - CIA ARGENTINA…

Project planning options for interface detection with electromechanical lot system NivoBob® for continuous level measurement or vibrating fork Vibranivo® for point level detection from UWT GmbH. There are several industries where sludge levels or solids in liquids need to be measured. For example, in sediment containers or basins, filters or lamella separators in the metal industry, chemical plants, lime or gravel works and the waste water industry. The measuring accuracy and durability of the sensor technology is important. Dirt, chemicals and gases often affect the sensors and require special resistance. The NivoBob® series NB 3300/3400 meet the requirements of many interface measurements and are very reliable due to the simple measuring principle. For level evaluation an analogue signal 4-20mA and a Modbus RTU/Profibus DP interface are available. Vibrating forks of the Vibranivo® series VN 1000 or VN 5000 can be used to measure the point level of sludge and solids in liquids. The parts in contact with the medium are made of resistant stainless steel. With the versions VN 1030 and VN 5030 even depths of approx. 4 m (13,12 feet) are realizable when installed…

Innovative recycling solutions result in high-quality recycled materials. Bezner’s recycling processes include (color) sorting, cleaning, shredding, granulating, melting and molding. Thanks to the growing demand for recycling, also the need for innovative recycling plants increases. In the years to come, waste will be a definition from the past. A significant number of recycled materials have become resources over the past decades, and the varieties continue to grow. High-quality materials Optimal recycling means selecting the ultimate installation design and applying high-quality materials, meeting your requirements. At Bezner, we have an in-house team of engineers for both mechanical and electrotechnical engineering. We are experienced in PLC programming and project management. Moreover, we have an in-house production facility. Plastic recycling machines and plants Apart from the argument of sustainability, given the oil price as a raw material for plastics, the reduced need for energy required to produce recycled plastics is another reason, economic this time, to use recyclables. The most common types of discarded plastics for a profitable…

Compact device NivoCapa® for precise level measurement for a wide range of applications; used in different liquids, pastes, foams and slurries and can be implemented in all types and shapes of tanks. Capacitance level measurement in tanks Level sensors that work according to the capacitive measuring principle are used in different liquids, pastes, foams and slurries and can be implemented in all types and shapes of tanks, metallic or non-metallic. They have a very high level of precision in both conductive and non-conductive media. If you look at the whole thing in practice, it becomes clear how versatile the capacitive measuring principle is in very different process conditions. Proven technology For a steel-producing plant, a continuous level measurement, which works unaffected by steam or pressure fluctuations within a very small measuring range, was implemented with the NivoCapa® NC 8000 in water for gas cooling. The proven technology with active buildup compensation and a tunable oscillator was a flexible solution for optimizing the manufacturing process. Measurement accuracy One of the top 10 steel producers worldwide was looking for an insensitive…

Recycling and waste management machinery. For various waste streams, Bezner engineers and supplies both single machines and turn-key solutions. (i) Sorting cabin with sorting chutes Mechanical sorting and separating have been developed into sophisticated techniques. However in some cases, clients prefer to incorporate control rooms or sorting cabins in the recycling process when: * need of a final inspection in product streams * quality processed materials fluctuate strongly * limited budget for investment in automation (i) vibrating screen The vibrating screen provides a thorough and careful separation of a wide variety of materials such as demolition waste, bulk goods, paper and lighter packagings. (i) Trommel screen A screening drum, or also referred to as trommel screen or rotary drum screen, is a machine for classifying, size splitting, and pre-sorting waste in a waste management plant, recycling plant or compost plant. Bezner’s designs vary in length and/ or diameter of the drum, and the shape and mesh of the holes in the drum. (i) Vibrating feeder A vibrating dosing feeder is a conveying…

Modern solutions for efficient storage processes Measurement technology Rotonivo® and NivoBob® combined with data visualisation NivoTec® Modern, high-quality technologies ensure a continuous stress-free manufacturing process in plants. When it comes to detecting fill levels in silos and material processing operations, sensors with a high level of compatibility for different process containers provide the optimum support for a smooth process. Depending on the processing stage, the material to be controlled can be of very different nature and place different demands on the measurement technology to be used. Users from different industries with a number of scattered storage silos consider it increasingly necessary for their plants to be equipped with automated visualisation and monitoring of the data in addition to continuous measurement of the fill levels. In order to guarantee a professional solution in terms of precision and process reliability for content measurement during the various stations in the manufacturing process to support a production facility, it is necessary to react to the respective…

Plant operators are busy keeping pace of the wide range of challenges presented by raw materials of the building sector, the changing operating conditions in silos or pipelines or the need for ex-certificates. Such requirements call for measurement solutions that are versatile, whilst representing a cost-effective investment and offering versions fully equipped to meet a wide variety of these requirements. Due to the fast development of the building and quarry industry in the MENA countries during the past years, the demand for more solution approaches for applications of cement plants there has increased. Solutions of appropriate sensor technology for content and point level measurement have to be found in order to support the process flow of the cement production in the most reliable way. - Case study: In one of Saudi Arabia’s largest cement plants UWT was confronted with especially harsh working conditions. For his cement silos the plant operator was looking after reliable contents measurement technology as well as after a flexible sensor system for level limit detection. The combination of a very high dust generation and an extremely high process temperature was…

One of Italy’s largest building industry suppliers equipped its storing processes with suitable level measurement technology. Robust level measurement you can build on. The challenge was to find a system which can measure reliably even in this extremely dusty environment. Together with UWT a free-radiating continuous level measurement was configured. In addition to that a vibrating fork was installed for overfill protection within the truck transporters. - Smart non-contact continuous radar determination Due to the fast development of the building and quarry industry in many European countries during the past years, the demand for more solution approaches for applications of cement plants has increased. Solutions of appropriate sensor technology for content and point level measurement have to be found in order to support the process flow of the cement production in the most reliable way. A manufacturer of concrete and plaster products for the building industry in Italy wanted to modernize his process flow with a redesign of the measuring equipment. Pre-dosed products are mainly offered,…

Safe level measurement in ethanol tanks with guided wave radar For the storage processes of ethanol of a Swedish producer the guided wave radar for continuous level determination was implemented within several tanks. TDR sensors are easy to put into operation and deliver reliable measurement results even under extreme process conditions. Since the functional principle does not require any mechanically moving parts, a maintenance-free manufacturing process is ensured and system availability is increased. In addition, TDR sensors meet the highest safety standards, which makes them the technology of choice especially in the oil, gas and chemical sectors. With these capabilities, TDR sensors make a noticeable contribution to increasing the productivity of the plant. Robust sensor design that can be used in a variety of ways Radar technology has gained more and more importance over the past decades and has been continuously developed. The area of application now extends from simple installations to complex process vessels with a…

One of India’s largest energy suppliers equipped its coal handling processes with suitable level measurement technology to optimize the whole power plant flow. How to equip the lifeline of the power plant In addition to natural gas, oil and nuclear power, coal is a major factor in the generation of electrical power. In line with the rapid development of the economy and of technology we have a continuously growing demand for electricity as mankind invents computers, intelligent home appliances, electric cars, intelligent robots and many more products that use electricity. Still rising consumption e.g. in China, India and the United States could bring global coal-fired power demand to a new all-time high. The requirements for electric power equipment are increasing: the need for them to be safe and reliable, with high availability, easy to install, no leakage, maintenance-free and to meet the requirements for environmental protection. End of last year a big coal-fired power plant, located in Kharagpur, West Bengal, was looking for uncomplicated, high-performing and absolutely reliable measurement technology at an affordable…

A large grain storage facility in the south of England required a reliable content measuring device to replace an old acoustic wave system which was no longer functioning. Non-contact continuous level measurement UWT (UK) Limited proposed the use of the free-radiating radar NivoRadar® NR 3100 which could be supplied with an aiming flange. The integrated aiming flange allowed the radar to be mounted in the same position as the previous acoustic wave device which was close to the silo side wall and which allowed for the narrow 4˚ beam to be aimed towards the lowest point of the silo. This saved the customer time and money as they didn’t need to move the mounting position towards the centre of the silo where the silo was filled from. Bring the levels to where the planner needs them The visualising system that the customer had been using previously was very basic and limited and did not allow them to display the contents in any other way than the level of the material. The customer required the contents of the silo to be displayed in tonnes or percentage of fill. The NivoTec® NT 4600 with cabinet mounted digital display fulfilled…

Sugar beet - as versatile as UWT level measurement devices Our Product Manager N. Oppenberger has been looking into the specific requirements for measurement technology in hygiene-sensitive processes in the food production. He discovered that the requirements vary very much depending if you are looking at it at a national or an international level. Bearing this in mind he explains what should be considered when choosing measurement technology. In this seminar a focus is put on the field of sugar processing which cover solutions for overfill protection and empty notification of bulk goods and liquid media. In this live session J. Bareth, Area Sales Manager Central Europe and N. Oppenberger, Product Manager give you an insight into the different level measurement devices used in sugar plants around the world. They also demonstrate where certain technologies work and where they don’t. Our experts will be investigating particularly challenging applications giving specific recommendations what sensor technology is best suited…

Bakeries, the customers of the mills, often place their orders to late and the mills are faced with having to supply material immediately in order to avoid production stop at the bakeries. In Germany alone there are more than 260 large flour mills, in Asia the grain market is significantly greater and a very important industry. All around the world the situation is similar: Well-planned routes and carefully calculated stock levels are vital to achieve max. cost optimization during the material delivery process, however these are more than often jeopardized by daily reality. This leads to unnecessary logistics costs caused by multiple deliveries and ultimately to an increase in costs for sides, the supplier and the customer. This is obviously in no one’s interest. But why are we confronted with these “fire-fighting” situations and how can they be avoided? Lack of storage management in bakeries Even bakeries with multiple storage silos often do not have an automated level monitoring system to control their inventory levels. Therefore these stocks have to be checked manually on a regular basis and an order has to be triggered to the flour supplier…

Guided wave radar in narrow storage silo for overfill protection and empty indication. Robust and reliable for a continuous, stress-free production process. Robust and totally reliable In aggregate, quarry and mining applications level measurement devices need to be robust with total reliability as standard to ensure a continuous stress-free production process. Modern level measurement For a concrete and cement manufacturer in Germany who has implemented guided wave radar sensors this level measurement technology offered multiple support for his storage process optimization. The TDRs with their high compatibility are used for consistently accurate continuous level detection under difficult varying process conditions, such as high pull-off forces, caking or condensate formation. Unaffected by dust and build-up The stored raw products and additives undergo different processing stages on the way to the final mortar and different kinds of concrete, ready-mixed concrete and special concretes. The solids in particular have different densities, particle sizes with different dust development and a differing moisture content.…

GKM Control-Screening Machine KTS-V2 800/ KTS-VS2 800 If spices, flavors, sugar, flours, milk powder, etc. have to be processed further, such raw materials are often delivered in sacks or bags. The KTS-V2 800/ KTS-VS2 800 control screening machine, specially developed for these tasks, ensures the quality of the raw materials by removing all impurities, foreign and coarse grains from the product at high throughput rates. Your main benefits include: - The Bag tipping platform has an integrated dust hood – it is possible to connect a dust extraction unit for quick removal of dusts - The machine is in a mobile design for a flexible product intake - Screens with twin-clamp rings for fast re-meshing on - site and easy dismantling - Optional designable for the food- and chemical industry with FDA or ATEX conformity

With the rapid development of the economy and technology, the demand for electricity is constantly increasing. Watch our Webinar on Demand anytime - in English Our Product Manager N. Oppenberger has been looking into the very specific requirements for measurement technology within the power industry. Together with J. Bareth, Area Sales Manager Central Europe, he explains solutions for overfill protection, empty notification as well as continuous level measurement of bulk goods and liquid media required for the different production processes. *What is the main focus of this webinar? In line with the rapid development of the economy and of technology we have a continuously growing demand for electricity as mankind invents computers, intelligent home appliances, electric cars, intelligent robots and many more products that use electricity. To produce the power required many challenges have to be overcome, some of which we would like to cover in our webinar. In this live special you receive an insight into choosing the right level measurement sensors for the different processes and sub-processes of the power sector. Our…

Capacitance measurement technology RFnivo® 3000 for conveying process optimization for a silicon metal manufacturer A silicon metal production facility in Iceland was looking for a suitable level measurement technology to coordinate the filling of sea containers with silicate rock. Due to the very abrasive material, a heavy-duty capacitive probe should be used. With the project planning of a proven point level switch from UWT with the innovative RF technology, a compatible solution, which is robust and delivers reliable results, could be found. Silicon metal is used in a variety of applications in the chemical industry, e.g. in the manufacture of siloxane and silicones, as well as in the production of high-strength aluminum alloys for the automotive industry. It is also often a primary raw material in the manufacture of photovoltaic modules. In the production processes of a manufacturer in Iceland, an above-average sustainability balance is strived for, which includes equipping its system with modern and efficient component technology. Therefore, the implementation of innovative…

Podcast on demand - allways available - Find out the benefits while using the NivoGuide® Series for continuous level controlin solids and liquids One for all. Standard or tricky? Solving difficult level measurement applications with guided wave radar The ultimate Guide: When things get a little tricky. TDR - Allrounder for Solids & Liquids: Looking for precise and safe continuous level measurement even when dealing with difficult process conditions such as: ~ dusty atmosphere ~ material with a low DK-value ~ very tall silos ~ particularly high loads on the probe ↪ Reliable and accurate, even when faced with difficult conditions such as extreme temperatures and pressures, steam, interface or build-up. UWT Product Manager Nikolas Oppenberger provides exciting tips & tricks concerning the TDR technology with useful examples of challenging applications and how the guided wave radar handles them. ↪ Special focus: Solutions with coaxial versions ↪ PLUS: Setup, configuration, commissioning & diagnostics - fast & easy ⚐ Are you faced with strong surface waves, fixings inside the tank…

Coperion Supplies Twin Screw Extruder to Ghent University for Chemical Plastic Recycling. Due to its intensive dispersion and devolatilization output, Coperion’s ZSK twin screw extruder is extremely well suited for energy-efficient chemical recycling of mixed plastic waste. Stuttgart, June 2021 – Coperion is supplying an extrusion system to Ghent University in Belgium for comprehensive research and development tasks in chemical recycling of mixed plastic waste. Coperion designed this laboratory system, built upon a ZSK 18 MEGAlab twin screw extruder, especially for chemical recycling of post-consumer waste within a throughput range of 1-10 kg per hour. Along with the extruder, it includes a feeder from Coperion K-Tron as well as a vacuum unit. Plastic waste, especially packaging waste, is generally a mixture of materials with a high degree of contamination. Recycling this raw material is usually difficult, as sorting and cleaning of waste is in many cases neither economically viable nor technically feasible. Chemical recycling is a promising process…

With the right measurement technology, hops & malt are never wasted - Active batch compensation & food conformity & CIP suitability In the food industry, absolute hygiene is among other things of upmost importance, whereby high demands are placed on the measuring technology to be installed in terms of design, functionality and reliability. Especially in the beverage industry, these demands can be very specific. A Peruvian beer producer was looking for suitable solutions for the overfill protection as well as the idling protection of its process vessels holding different solid and liquid raw materials required for the various production processes. To equip the malt addition process the innovative RF technology was chosen. UWT capacitive limit switches which have been designed to cope with high temperatures as well as applications with highly caking materials such as the viscous liquid of the malt mixture, were installed. * It tastes better when you know your limits In 11,000 B.C., agriculture and grain farming are born, and the history of beer begins. Archaeological findings report on beer consumption…

When detecting fill and limit levels, sensors with high compatibility for different process vessels offer optimal support for a smooth process. Level detection at high process temperatures for wood power plants When detecting fill and limit levels, sensors with high compatibility for different process vessels offer optimal support for a smooth process. The material to be checked can be of very different properties depending on the processing stage and make different demands on the measurement technology to be used. The rotation principle for point level detection in silos and material processing processes has proven itself for many decades. Even under extreme conditions. An energy technology company was looking for modern, high-quality technologies for point level measurement in order to optimally equip its wood-based electricity systems. The wood gas is converted into electricity after gas processing in a combined heat and power plant. ° When things get hot. Rotary paddle detectors when generating electricity using biogenic solid fuels Rotary paddle detectors are known for their easy-to-use functional…

New recycling plant for opening up electronic waste and printed circuit boards. At the Mühlacker site in Baden-Württemberg, Germany the company MetReTec GmbH has built a new, modern recycling plant for recycling of electronic waste and circuit boards. The recycling plant is located Muehlacker, Germany, has a plant area of approx. 8000 m² and approx. 35 employees are operating the plant. A Turbo-Crusher type TQZ1200, from THM recycling solutions GmbH, is the first unit in the system and is used to shred and break up the input material. With a modern and comprehensive downstream separation system the crushed and open-up material, is separated into single-type fractions. The resulting pure materials, such as Copper, precious metals, plastics and steel are marketable materials that can be returned into the material cycle. Other material fractions that arise in this process can be refined or processed using other equipment.

Continuous level measurement in cooling water with H2 gas. There occur process-related low levels of vibration and steamin the atmosphere. Level sensors that work according to the capacitive measuring principle are used in different liquids, pastes, foams and slurries and can be implemented in all types and shapes of tanks, metallic or non-metallic. They have a very high level of precision in both conductive and non-conductive media. If you look at the whole thing in practice, it becomes clear how versatile the capacitive measuring principle is in very different process conditions. For a steel-producing plant, a continuous level measurement, which works unaffected by steam or pressure fluctuations within a very small measuring range, was implemented with the NivoCapa® NC 8000 in water for gas cooling. The proven technology with active buildup compensation and a tunable oscillator was a flexible solution for optimizing the manufacturing process. Measurement accuracy & corrosion-resistant design including PFA shielding. One of the top 10 steel producers worldwide was looking for an insensitive and…

Measurement technology Rotonivo® and NivoBob® combined with data visualisation NivoTec® Modern, high-quality technologies ensure a continuous stress-free manufacturing process in plants. When it comes to detecting fill levels in silos and material processing operations, sensors with a high level of compatibility for different process containers provide the optimum support for a smooth process. Depending on the processing stage, the material to be controlled can be of very different nature and place different demands on the measurement technology to be used. Users from different industries with a number of scattered storage silos consider it increasingly necessary for their plants to be equipped with automated visualisation and monitoring of the data in addition to continuous measurement of the fill levels. Modern solutions for efficient storage processes In order to guarantee a professional solution in terms of precision and process reliability for content measurement during the various stations in the manufacturing process to support a production…

Point level detection with RFnivo® and the coating PPT with innovative corrosion protection In power plants, the demands made on the fill level sensors can be very high due to the fact that the sensors come into contact with aggressive media such as sulphur oxides, heavy metals or even acids. Where limit switches are used for dust detection in flue gas cleaning, they need to be robust enough in order to deliver reliable and consistent performance. Often maintenance costs or replacement of these sensors can be very high due to their quality not being adequate to meet the demands and so they achieve only a short operating life. This is particularly evident in measurement tasks in flue gas cleaning within waste incineration plants. Longer service life due to increased corrosion resistance UWT has further developed the RFnivo® 3100 capacitive level limit switch for this type of measurement task in the dust extraction of flue gases so that it meets and withstands the demanding conditions. All process-contacting parts of the sensor have been designed to be completely…

Precise media detection with two wire electronics and “Tip sensitivity” Tomatoes Capacitance level measurement in tomato paste production Measuring sensors working with the capacitive principle are the all-rounders among limit switches because they have the highest application performance in the basic version. They can be found in overfill protection as well as demand and empty indicators in process or storage vessels as well as in leakage monitoring and interface detection and can be used in all tank types and shapes, regardless of whether the vessels are metallic or non-metallic. Due to their high sensitivity, their compactness and the variety of booms, they are particularly suitable for the different process requirements of the nutrition industry. A well-known manufacturer of different foods within the Latin American markets implemented the capacitance level indicator Capanivo® from UWT GmbH for his tomato paste container at the Lima location. For full detection the CN 7000 series was applied, which has process connection made of stainless…

In his production chain an American manufacturer will no longer use two machines for screening his plastic granulate, but only one: the Rhewum WAFL with two screen decks. Pavement markings have been used since the beginning of the 20th century. Today they are part of the modern street scene and without them we would sometimes lose orientation. The line markings create a clear and safe traffic guidance. The products of the world’s leading North Carolina-based manufacturer are not only used on roads and highways, but also on taxiways, take-off and landing runways, parking lots, intersections and in all types of commercial, construction, government, industrial and architectural environments. So these markings help drivers, pilots and pedestrians to move safely in the right direction. The exact process of producing road markings will not be discussed in detail at this point, as it is quite complex. However, plastic granulate is processed in the production of road markings, that must be dewatered. With the help of the Rhewum WAFL the water can be perfectly separated from the product and a low residual moisture of approx. 8 percent can…

Project planning options for interface detection with NivoBob® or Vibranivo® from UWT There are several industries where sludge levels or solids in liquids need to be measured. For example, in sediment containers or basins, filters or lamella separators in the metal industry, chemical plants, lime or gravel works and the waste water industry. The measuring accuracy and durability of the sensor technology is important. Dirt, chemicals and gases often affect the sensors and require special resistance. The NivoBob® series NB 3300/3400 meet the requirements of many interface measurements and are very reliable due to the simple measuring principle. For level evaluation an analogue signal 4-20mA and a Modbus RTU/Profibus DP interface are available. Vibrating forks of the Vibranivo® series VN 1000 or VN 5000 can be used to measure the level of sludge and solids in liquids. The parts in contact with the medium are made of resistant stainless steel. With the versions VN 1030 and VN 5030 even depths of approx. 4 m when installed from above in a tank or basin.…

PPSChemical resistance & compact design with the probe with 1-inch process connection Level indicators working with the capacitive measurement principle can be used in all types and shapes of tanks, regardless of whether these are metallic or non-metallic. Due to their high sensitivity, their compactness and the range of probes, they are suitable for a wide variety of industrial process requirements. A well-known manufacturer of aluminum sulfate in Peru was looking for a compact level measurement for its raw material tanks with 98% sulfuric acid. Due to the strong corrosion caused by the acidic material, the decision was made to implement the robust capacity indicator Capanivo® CN 7000 from UWT GmbH. PPS probe with 1-inch process connection Chemical resistance & compact design Sulfuric acid is extracted from sulfur in a number of ways and is one of the most dangerous acids known in the world. The colorless and odorless chemical is viscous, water-soluble, hygroscopic and hardly corrosive. Due to its properties, sulfuric acid is used in a large number…

RHEWUM Screening Technologies for Glass Processing Glass can be found in almost all areas of daily life. Starting in the construction industry, through telecommunications, household, food, automotive and aircraft construction to optics. The ever-increasing demands on technical glass can only be met by using ever more precise basic materials such as quartz sand and soda. But also a variety of glass products such as glass wool, glass balls or other waste glass only become a saleable product through classification. RHEWUM screening machines are also used in the processing of glass. Glass production The technique of glass production has been known for over 6,000 years. It has been continuously refined until today. Since then, glass has been used in a wide range of applications and has become a versatile material. In general, every glass contains one or more glass-forming oxides. The most commonly used are silicon dioxide (SiO2), i.e. quartz sand, but also boron trioxide and phosphorus pentoxide. Classification in basic…

RHEWUM presents solution for difficult screening tasks in the fertilizer industry. Typical phosphate fertilizers have specifications that allow particle sizes between 2 mm and 4 or 5 mm. In addition, these products are often expected to have a quality of more than 90 percent, which means that only 10 percent of the particles may be outside the specialized range. On the other hand, phosphate fertiliser production plants have a production rate of several hundred tonnes per hour. Phosphate granulate tends to clog the screen meshes. If this occurs, production must be stopped to allow the meshes to be cleaned or replaced. The biggest challenge of a phosphate screening machine is therefore to obtain a high quality material with a high throughput while ensuring a low downtime for maintenance. Our solution - the WA(U) screening machine The concept of the Rhewum wa/WA(U) screening machine consists of directly excited screening meshes which are positioned at an angle to transport the material over the screen. The whole machine housing does not move while the…

Rhewum screening machine as a solution for wood recycling The manufacturing process of laminate includes many steps. However, the largest amount of waste is produced when the wooden boards are cut into planks. Both waste and sawdust are produced, which can hardly be sold as an end product. This was exactly the problem in 2016 when one of the world`s leading manufacturers of wooden flooring and interior fittings relied on RHEWUM screening machines to recycle its waste in order to increase the overall production efficiency. The special challenge here was the separation of the fine sawdust which comes from a mill. In general wood-based materials tend to clog the screen fabric easily. This is because during the screening process the fine particles can get stuck in the meshes and reduce the screening performance. In this case, the customer`s grain spectrum was wide. From highly visible wood chips of more than 10.0 mm in size that have to be shredded again, to the screening of fine dust below 400 microns, which makes up almost a…

Polystyrene sheets production In the production of polystyrene sheets the EPS granules (polystyrene granules) are delivered in pressurized containers. The material is then transported into silos with a capacity of 28 tons. The filling and removal takes place via a disc conveyor. So far, the quantity was determined by the level measurement in the silo. Our customer was now looking for an optimized quantity measurement with the latest technology. Process data Customer: Manufacturer of Styrofoam sheets (Germany) Material: EPS granules Quantity: 390 kg/min Installation: Pipe after disc conveyor Function: Exact measurement of flow rate Solution MaxxFlow HTC is a sensor for bulk solids volume measurement. It is used after mechanical conveying elements. The MaxxFlow HTC sensor can be calibrated and transmits the exact measured data to the control system. It can be mounted in free fall sections or in diagonal lines. Short installation space required and easy calibration makes…

Competency Baling presses for every application, every material and designed according to every individual demand - this is the core competency of HSM‘s environmental experts. Regardless of the material to be processed, the volume or the local conditions - HSM has the right product for you. HSM Environmental Technology products all have one goal: to deal with waste materials ecologically and economically. HSM baling presses compress packaging waste up to 95 % and compact cardboard, plastics and nearly all waste materials into bales which can be easily stacked and transported. With Hsm pet solutions, HSM provides professional technologies for durable compression and devaluation of PET bottles. Services In addition to quality baling presses ”Made in Germany“, HSM also offers full customer service. From consulting on selecting the right press for your specific application, to individual projecting of system development, to supporting the press operation: HSM…

Asphalt rehabilitation during ongoing air traffic? No problem with Fliegl Apron 1 of Hamburg Airport is to be renovated. During this operation, it is important not to interrupt the regular air traffic and thus avoid additional costs and revenue losses. According to safety guidelines and in order not to impede air traffic control, the height of 5 m may not be exceeded during the rehabilitation in some parts of the construction field. As transportation vehicles are needed for the delivery of asphalt, this hurdle poses a problem since conventional dump trucks do exceed the height of 5 m when dumping. Does that mean air traffic has to be stopped and there are enormous costs for the airport? No. With the help of a thermally insulated vehicle with a push-off function, air traffic does not have to be interrupted as this vehicle meets the height limit of 5 m due to its proven push-off system. The commissioned company uses a fleet of thermally insulated push-off vehicles at Hamburg airport. Within three weeks, a multi-layered structure consisting…

HSM GmbH + Co. KG, the southern German manufacturer of baling presses, PET solutions and document shredders will be at the FachPack exhibition (hall 4, stand 229) from September 24 to 26 to showcase its product solutions for the packaging industry. A novelty is the vertical baling press HSM V-Press 860 plus B. Thanks to the wide feed opening of 1500 mm, it produces particularly large, highly compressed bales of cardboard or foil which can be marketed without further pressing. With a pressing force of 594 kN and the low-noise and energy-saving rapid traverse technology, it is the economical and environmentally friendly solution for many disposal tasks. Thanks to the special Hsm tcs (TorsionControlSystem), the inclination of the pressing plate in all directions is continuously monitored. This prevents one-sided loads, optimises the pressing process and thus ensures a long service life and a high process guarantee. The machine is controlled and operated by a modern microprocessor…

Hornbach Baumarkt AG is optimising processes with a waste management concept The heart of the innovative concept: vertical balers from HSM. 330 of the HSM V-Press 860 and HSM V-Press 1160 max balers compact paper, cardboard and fi lm at 180 points of collection – megastores and logistics and administration centres in nine European countries. The investment for the balers is paid off within a very short period. The concept, said Andreas Back, Head of Quality Management, Environment & CSR at Hornbach, has increased the recycling quota dramatically: “A lot of residual waste has become recyclable material.” Objective: waste separation across Europe Those responsible at Hornbach tested a variety of baler models from various manufacturers in a DIY megastore. In doing so, they very quickly saw “clear differences” in ease of operation, quality and lastly, the price, reported Andreas Back. The “highest quality” and the “best price-performance ratio” were exhibited, in his opinion, by the HSM presses. Back: “We simply had a very good…

Sports Direct International PLC is today the UK‘s largest sporting goods retailer Retailer Sports Direct acquired HSM machines at their Shirebrook headquarters to help manage their waste from across 1,000 stores across the UK where it’s arranged and recycled e¬fficiently. Recycling plays a major part within the organisation’s corporate responsibilities. The company’s “strict” recycling standards means all UK stores are monitored closely ensuring there’s no cross contamination between recyclable materials such as wood, cardboard, plastics etc. The Facts With around 800 to 1,000 tonnes of cardboard collected each month, due care and attention must be enforced at all times, especially with the large volumes of bales produced and the risk of cross contamination of the different waste materials. The organisation has its own on-site maintenance team who do daily, weekly and monthly checks. However, they also have a service contract with HSM who visit the Shirebrook site every six months to do all the major servicing, making sure the machines…

Car parts and accessories retail specialist, MotorNuts supplies customers through an extensive online store which has a huge range of quality products from leading brands and suppliers. MotorNuts are a leading retailer of car parts and accessories. Their extensive online store has a huge range of quality products from bulbs to brake pads, wiper blades to wheel nuts. They have built a successful business selling everything for the modern day motorist; from garage essentials such as oils and tools; leisure accessories including all the necessities for camping and caravanning, cycle carriers, roof bars and boxes through to car care, cleaning and valeting products. MotorNuts operate as a family business and are fully supported with their team of experts, who together have over 100 years combined experience of car parts and accessories retailing. During this time they have developed excellent relationships with their product suppliers, which in turn allows them to get…

At the Morschheim site in Germany, Veolia Umweltservice West GmbH operates a highly efficient sorting facility for post-consumer plastic films. Crucial to ensuring the best possible output quality in homogenous LDPE film is a Lindner-Recyclingtech Micromat 2000 BW shredder. This innovative machine also regulates the quantity of material and creates the perfect conditions for optical sorting by feeding the optical sorting system with the particles it needs. A very important system component – the best prerequisite for automatic sorting At the Veolia Umweltservice West GmbH site in Morschheim, over 6,000 tons of commercially produced LDPE film waste arrive annually for sorting. The Micromat 2000 BW proves to be a very important system component here – innovative, powerful and highly productive while at the same time cost-efficient and therefore economical. The shredding performance of the tried-and-tested Lindner model series is key to ensuring that very high…

E-drive and intelligent energy management – an innovative yet ingeniously simple solution Lindner is responding to the increasing demands placed on the automated sorting of valuable recyclables as well as the ensuing rise in the need among producers of solid recovered fuels (SRF) for pre-shredded yet ideally sortable material. With the new Atlas, the leader in shredding technology is not only focusing on the energy efficiency of shredding systems, but also on the ideal output size with continuous dosing for optical sorting systems and a maximally possible resistance to foreign parts at the same time. Uniform material discharge, more recyclables Designed for very high uptimes (24 hours a day, seven days a week), the ‘ripping twin-shaft shredder’ has a throughput capacity for coarser output sizes and uniform material discharge of 40 to 50 metric tonnes per hour, depending on the feed material. As a result, more recyclable materials, in particular plastics such as film from mixed municipal solid waste as well as from commercial and industry waste,…

Channel baling press, document shredders and hard disc shredder at Schmitt Recycling The proprietor, Wolfgang Schmitt, bases this strategy entirely on HSM. In total, there are now three machines from HSM located on the 15,000 square metre business premises in the Fulda suburb Besges. From the “HSM Powerline HDS 230“ hard disc shredder through the “DuoShredder 6060“ document shredder to a “VK 12018 RFU“, the second largest channel baling press from the HSM range. “HSM is the only supplier who provides the entire spectrum for a recycling operation, which we find to be a major advantage“, Wolfgang Schmitt says. “We receive everything from one source.“ Since April 2015, Schmitt Recycling has been working with a large document shredder which is fed via an underfloor conveyor and which has a high throughput of up to 2500 kilogrammes per hour. The DuoShredder 6060 shreds documents together with files, the metal components are sorted magnetically. It is therefore no longer necessary for Wolfgang Schmitt to delegate an employee just to separate…

Van Beek has developed the eggshell dryer for drying crushed eggshells in a continuous industrial process. This dryer heats the eggshells to 130 degrees to give a pathogen-free, fine-grained and high quality lime with a maximum moisture content of 1%. No odour nuisance This end product can be marketed as a soil improver or lime for the animal feed or cement industry. By removing the moisture odour nuisance is a thing of the past. Less than 4% moisture The eggshell dryer is a machine with a single screw and operates as a paddle dryer. The machine requires little installation space in an automated line that breaks the eggs to separate the contents from the shells. After dehumidification the line crushes the shells, after which they land in the eggshell dryer. This removes the last moisture from them, leaving less than 4% moisture. Designs The eggshell dryer exists in designs for an output of 250, 500 or 1000 kilo per hour. Van Beek produces…

HSM presents as a competent partner at the IFAT trade fair in Munich From 15 - 18 May, HSM GmbH + Co. KG, the south German manufacturer of baling presses, PET solutions and document shredders, will present its extensive range of products at IFAT, the world’s leading trade fair for water, sewage, waste and raw materials management, in Munich in Hall B5, booth 251/350. The exhibition will include the latest horizontal baling press, HSM HL 7009 with a press force of 700 kN, among other things. The compact horizontal baling press is the economic and space-saving disposal solution for chain stores and retailers, and it easily compresses cardboard and foil. With a cross-section of 1100 x 1100 mm and a bale length of 1200 mm, the bales weight up to 600 kg. In this way, the four-fold horizontally strapped bales achieve optimum truck utilisation. The integrated hydraulic lifting and tilting device means a significant reduction in personnel commitment during the compaction of recyclables. Thanks to the large-sized filler opening, even bulky…

German based interVIB GmbH known as developer and supplier for vibratory conveying and screening equipment has delivered numerous Linear Vibratory Screens type VSL with special developed 3D-screening cassettes to various steel factories and scrap yards. The task is to improve scrap metal quality, either provided from shears or shredders, by taking out fines, magnetic dust and non-ferrous material. Capacities from 40 to/hr up to 300 to/hr can be achieved depending on the screen dimensions. The main focus is placed onto the special designed screening surface which is built from extra strong manganese steel. It is built as cassettes which can be easily exchanged and have a life span of over 18 months. Mainly 2-3 cassettes are inserted with cascades in-between, revolving the scrap. This ensures, that the fines laying on top of large scale parts will also be separated. The robust designed main body of the screening machine ensures that also unexpected heavy parts or…

The first large-scale plant for the recycling of heavily contaminated PE film waste has now delivered by HERBOLD MECKESHEIM, the plant can process up to 8,000 tons per year of film, used big bags and similar waste. The waste coming in bales are pre-sorted, shredded and foreign bodies are separated by means of a pre-washing unit in which also a first washing takes place. Fig. 1) Charles Müller (Managing Director) and Deon Swart (Technical Manager) in front of the HERBOLD plant Afterwards, further contaminations are dissolved in a wet granulator under intensive friction; a subsequent friction washer separates the dirty water from the product. A hydro cyclone separates foreign plastics and specifically heavy contaminations from the target fraction. This separation process has a particularly high separation effect and ensures the high quality of the produced film flakes. Fig. 2 + 3 ) Contaminated Input In two drying steps, centrifugal dryer and hot air dryer,…

For the Disposal of PET Bottles HSM GmbH + Co. KG, the south German manufacturer of baling presses, PET solutions and document shredders offers a product range to optimally support the disposal of PET bottles. The baling presses of the manufacturer from Lake Constance are always specialists when it comes to compressing waste materials by up to 95 % and pressing them into unmixed and optimally transportable bales. The fully automatic channel baling press HSM VK 4812 P is especially suitable for the professional waste disposal sector or larger industrial applications - with high throughputs especially for compressing PET bottles. With an extremely high pressing force of 480 kN and a large fill opening of approximately 1020 x 1250 mm, the HSM VK 4812 P not only presses PET bottles, but also foils, boxes and much more. The press boxes in a Hardox design ensure a low degree of wear. The baling press is also available with an optional frequency-controlled drive. This drive makes a significant contribution…

In October, the southern German office and environmental technology manufacturer HSM GmbH + Co. KG invited customers to its plants Frickingen and Salem. Around 100 guests travelled to Lake Constance from all over Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the Czech Republic, Serbia, Estonia, Russia, Thailand, and many other countries, to take part in days packed with information. At the headquarters in Frickingen, Hermann Schwelling, managing director and company founder, welcomed the guests, who were mostly specialists from the waste disposal sector, as well as HSM sales partners from all over the world. HSM operates in the strategic business areas of office technology and environmental technology with around 900 employees worldwide. Hermann Schwelling showed the visitors impressive figures from the area of production: HSM produces over 3,000 bale presses a year with a pressing force of up to 150 tons. HSM produces over 400 horizontal ball presses annually, as well as around…

GWP was originally founded in 1990 as The Great Western Packaging Company. The company has now grown to become a key player on the British packaging market and combines, under the umbrella of GWP Group Ltd, the five divisions of GWP Packaging, GWP Protective, GWP Correx, GWP Conductive and GWP Coatings. GWP Packaging serves customers from the beverages and foodstuffs, medical, automotive and IT and electronics etc. sectors with packaging made of corrugated cardboard, which in terms of design and characteristics is tailored specifically to the product and its application. James Pedley, Operations Manager of the division, explains: “Our task is to design packaging solutions which perfectly showcase the packaged good at the point of sale and protect it from transport damage. The main priorities in the process are cost-efficiency and environmental compatibility.” Priorities which are reflected in the sophisticated corporate processes at GWP Packaging. Taking production…

Double the capacity, fully utilised lorries at last and maximum operational reliability Smurfit Kappa in Neuburg an der Donau / Germany is very pleased with a channel baling press from HSM. At the corrugated cardboard plant, the “HSM VK 7215” has been pressing cutting waste into bales weighing more than half a tonne since September 2014, thereby ensuring smooth operation of the plant. For their process, Smurfit Kappa has quite special requirements for the baling press. In the past, one bale of cutting waste at Smurfit Kappa in Neuburg weighed 380 kg. Today it is 520 kg - for the same size of bale. This is made possible by the high compression capacity of the HSM VK 7215 baling press. This has significant advantages for the transportation of bales to the paper factory for recycling. On the whole, there are fewer bales, the forklift truck can make fewer trips and lorry utilisation to the paper factory has increased by 30 per cent. “The under-utilisation of the lorries is now finally a thing of the past for us”, said Rüdiger Graf, operations manager…

“Today, we have one of the most powerful machines on the market.“ Following a thorough selection process, Hans-Peter Kremer, technical developer at Thommen AG is sure that he made the right choice with the fully-automatic channel baling press HSM VK 12018 R FU. The machine from HSM is unbeatable in terms of robustness, efficiency and reliability. However, while searching for a successor to a 20-year-old pre-press flap press, Thommen AG had some surprises. With eleven sites, Thommen AG is one of the leading recycling companies in Switzerland. The subsidiary Halter Rohstoff AG in Biel collects and compresses pre-pressed cardboard (B19) and loose plastic sheets. Annual volume: 25 000 tons. Mr Kremer then made contact with HSM after reading about the company in an article in a recycling trade journal. He was “very impressed“ by a visit to the HSM plant in Salem, Lake Constance and saw how high the share of in-house production is at HSM. “Made in Germany“ is very important to the recycler and, especially, to his boss Dr. Tobias…

DARDA attachments & BROKK demolition robots - ”Dreamteam” In the summer of 2016, the complete core removal and demolition of the ”Zeilgalerie” shopping center in the so-called ”Zeil”, one of the central shopping streets of Frankfurt am Main in Germany. For this purpose, several BROKK demolition robots as well as various attachments from DARDA GmbH were successfully used by contracting company ANTAL Abbruch & Baumanagement GmbH from Frankfurt. Several BROKK demolition robots and diverse DARDA attachment tools demonstrated their abilities in this prestigious project. The DARDA Multi Cutter MC200 proved to be a true cutting wonder: It cut pipes, cables, metal brackets and struts, air-conditioning ducts, steel supports, railings, installation rails, drywall frames and paneling. The steel shears from DARDA GmbH, Blumberg, really tore into the reinforced concrete elements, Holorib panels and steel frame. Due to the location of the Zeilgalerie between two well-visited department stores in which sales activities could…

Europe’s largest logistics provider, Euro Pool System, in Hungary with new recycling hall In neatly lined-up wire cage carts, cardboard, PET bottles and cans from 175 branches of a supermarket chain in Hungary wait to be compressed into bales. The used packaging is carried via chain conveyors into two parallel channel baling presses and it’s there they are tightly compacted. Two shifts a day, six days a week. Everyone’s talking about the branch of the largest logistics provider in the field of reusable packaging being in Budapest: Euro Pool System. This branch alone processes around 22,000 tons of materials every year. This equals more than 4 tons per hour. Figures such as this require a fast and effective method of operation. Euro Pool has decided to build a new hall which will accommodate the recycling of materials from the food industry. Two fully automatic channel baling presses from HSM will enable the volume of packaging to be drastically reduced and returned to the recycling loop in the form of bales of material. Euro Pool will collect materials…