3D Non-Contact Measurement Sensor Technology for Material Handling

The BinMaster 3DLevelScanner offers non-contact continuous measurement with dust penetrating technology to provide unsurpassed bin volume accuracy. In contrast to single point devices, it works by measuring multiple points within the bin. This sophisticated acoustics-based technology is proven to perform in powders and bulk solids contained in tanks, silos, domes, warehouses, open bins and piles.

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This Level Scanner's innovative 3D mapping capabilities provide a visual representation of bin contents, detecting irregular material surfaces, cone up or down conditions, as well as sidewall build-up. This technology has a self-cleaning function, requires minimal maintenance and features a wide range of extensions and configurations to allow it to be used in a wide range of challenging applications.

BinMaster’s Range of Non-Contact Measurement Sensors

Continuous Level Scanners-3DLevelScanner Model: 3DLS S, M or MV

The BinMaster 3DLevelScanner as shown in Figure 1 uses dust-penetrating technology to provide unsurpassed bin volume accuracy. It is suitable for food processing, pharmaceuticals, or chemicals where contact with the material being measured must be avoided. The key features of continuous level scanners are:

• Continuous and non-contact measurement
• Measures uneven powder or solid material surfaces
• Detects cone up, cone down and sidewall build-up
• Provides minimum, maximum and average distances
• Performs in extreme levels of dust
• Calculates highly accurate bin volume
• Communications include 4-20/HART, Modbus RTU, TCP/IP and RS-485
• Measuring range up to 200 feet
• Self-cleaning with minimal maintenance
• 3DLevelScanner for high temperatures.

Figure 1. 3D Level scanner model 3DLS.

3D Level Scanner for High Temperatures Model: 3DLS HT

The 3DLevelScanner HT has been developed to determine the level and estimate the volume in storage silos containing challenging materials such as clinker, alumina, frac sand and fly ash. This model of the 3DLevelScanner has an operating temperature range of up to 356°F (180°C) to accommodate higher temperatures that may be present when material that has been heated in the production process is conveyed into storage silos. The 3DLevelScanner HT is suitable for use in the cement, aluminum, mining and power industries where there are multiple challenges such as dust or high humidity and very large silos where the material surface in the bin may be uneven and difficult to measure.

The key features of the 3D Level Scanner are:

• Operating temperature range of up to 356°F (180°C)
• Continuous and non-contact measurement
• Measures uneven powder or solid material surfaces
• Detects cone up, cone down and sidewall buildup
• Provides minimum, maximum and average distances
• Performs in extreme levels of dust
• Calculates highly accurate bin volume
• Communications include 4-20/HART, Modbus RTU, TCP/IP and RS-485
• Measuring range up to 200ft
• Self-cleaning with minimal maintenance.

Figure 2. 3D Level scanner high temperature model.

3D Multiple-Scanner System Model : MVL

In cases where the application is for a very large bin, tank or silo, the BinMaster MVL multiple-scanner system will provide greater inventory accuracy than a single 3DLevelScanner. The MVL system combines the multiple point measurement data from two or more 3DLevelScanners to cover an extensive surface area which makes it able to estimate inventory volume with greater accuracy than that which is previously available from any level measurement device.

In cases where advanced processing and software is used, the MVL also displays a visual representation of the material surface that shows high and low points in the bin such as cone up, cone down, sidewall build-up or bridging.

The key features of the MVL Model are:

• It significantly increases inventory accuracy in very large, wide silos
• Two or more scanners are optimally located to effectively cover the entire surface area
• Multiple scanners continuously measure and map the material surface
• Controller synchronizes data and creates single 3D visual of contents
• Software estimates volume and provides minimum, maximum and average distances to material.

Figure 3. 3D Multiple scanner model MVL.

3D Remote Communications Console Model: 3D LinkPro

Remote configuration of the 3DLevelScanner is possible with the 3DLinkPro by providing a remote link with BinMaster’s engineering laboratory during the initial installation period allowing bin parameters to be loaded in the software and fine-tuned for optimum scanner performance. The 3DLinkPro enables a BinMaster service technician to assist local personnel with service requests in real time by allowing for remote viewing of bin data and adjusting configuration settings.

Figure 4. 3D Link Pro.

3D MultiVision Software Model: 3D MultiVision

3D MultiVision is a Windows-based inventory management software for users of the 3DLevelScanner who need to view multiple bins easily and conveniently. MultiVision software is compatible with all versions of the 3DLevelScanner, S, M, MV, and MVL enabling users to view all of their bins on a single screen. MultiVision software can be accessed via a Local Area Network and multiple user accounts can be assigned to control the level of access to bin data.

Users can zoom in on detailed information for the bin including minimum, maximum and average levels by clicking on a single bin and see the 3D visualization of bin content for the MV and MVL models. The software is easy to use and allows each user to customize their screen to view all bins or a group of bins, and color-code bins by material type. It is possible for users to set high and low level alerts to be notified when bins reach critical levels.

Figure 5. 3D MultiVision.

3DLevelScanner with Teflon Coating Model: 3DLS TC

The Teflon coated antenna is an option for the 3DLevelScanner that is used in extreme conditions when powdered materials or dust cling to the device and interfere with the acoustic pulses of the 3DLevelScanner. Teflon has one of the lowest coefficients of friction against any solid, resulting in a slick surface that resists build-up.

Using the Teflon horn prevents dusty or sticky material from building up on the antenna, ensuring optimal performance by the 3DLevelSCanner. Using the Teflon-coated antenna also reduces the frequency for cleaning the antenna, prolonging the maintenance cycle.

3D Neck Extensions Model: 3D NE

In applications where it is required to lower the horn assembly of the scanner below obstacles, through a thick roof or on a raised socket, the optional 3DLevelScanner neck extensions are used. The neck extensions are available in 2’, 4’, 6’, and 10’ lengths to allow the 3DLevelScanner to be effectively installed without any degradation in performance or the need for special structural alterations or adapters.

Top and bottom stainless steel fittings, an extended connection cable, and either a galvanized or stainless steel pipe are included in the neck extension kits. If preferred, the customer can supply their own pipe.

3D Mounting Flanges Model: 3D MP

For optimum performance, it is essential that the 3DLevelScanner is mounted level and securely on the roof of the vessel. To ensure secure and proper, stable mounting on concrete or steel bin structures, BinMaster offers a variety of mounting plates. For flat roofs, a 0° mild carbon steel mounting plate features a powder coated finish is 13.38" in diameter and has a 11.75" bolt hole circle for securing the scanner in place. The 0° mounting plate is also available in stainless steel for food grade or sanitary operations where stainless steel is required. For vessels with angled roofs, 5°, 10°, 15°, 20° and 30° mounting flanges are available. These must be ordered along with a 0° mounting plate.

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by BinMaster.

For more information on this source, please visit BinMaster.