VEGAPULS 6X measures levels under extreme temperatures
There are applications that push level measurement to its limits. Until recently, this included a process called iron briquetting, where it was almost impossible to achieve reliable measuring results due to extreme temperatures. That has changed. Now, the new high-temperature version of radar sensor VEGAPULS 6X provides a groundbreaking solution for processes at temperatures up to 450 °C.
Sponge iron is an intermediate product in steel production. To store or transport it economically, it is often processed into briquettes. The technique involves passing the porous, spongy mass through heat-resistant roller presses at temperatures of 400 °C and higher.
New solution for an old problem
For many years, precise level measurement was the bottleneck in this process. Conventional measurement technology was not able to function reliably under the harsh conditions, because in addition to the heat, the low conductivity of iron also proved to be an impediment.
For challenging applications such as these, VEGA now offers the high-temperature version of its VEGAPULS 6X radar sensor. Thanks to its hollow ceramic cone and graphite seal, the sensor achieves a thermal performance that was previously not possible. “It’s true that hot briquetting is a niche process,” admits product manager Marvin Moser. However, there are countless such extremes and special cases for which reliable measurement technology is all the more important. “Failure is not an option here,” he says, convinced that “if VEGAPULS 6X can handle this, then it is suitable for all such extreme cases.”
New performance class
In order to achieve significantly better performance under extremely high temperatures, VEGA protects its radar sensors with a new type of sensor design.
The combination of hollow ceramic cone and graphite seal creates additional measurement certainty. By minimising the mass to be penetrated in the hollow cone, the performance of the sensor is significantly enhanced. The use of graphite as a sealing material also contributes greatly to the robustness of the sensor. As a result, it has a temperature resistance range from -196 °C to +450 °C and a pressure resistance range from -1 bar to +160 bar. Even large temperature fluctuations are not a problem.
Made to fit
Besides being highly resistant, VEGAPULS 6X offers another major advantage that is particularly useful for compact vessels. It can be used with a wide range of available process fittings, compact threads and small flanges, and operates without a blocking distance i.e. dead band. Process vessels can thus be filled right up to the top edge with no problem. Its high frequency of 80 GHz also enables particularly good focussing of its measuring beam, which in turn has a positive effect on measurement in tanks with internal installations and agitators. What is more, its high dynamic range makes it possible to reliably measure media that were previously considered nearly impossible to measure due to their low dielectric constant.
Are they completely secure?
Maximum system security is one of the most important goals in the process industry. To achieve this, VEGA has implemented a comprehensive security concept with the VEGAPULS 6X level sensor. At the top of the list is the sensor design itself, which easily withstands extreme ambient conditions. In addition, the sensor covers security and safety issues such as cybersecurity, functional safety in accordance with the Machinery Directive and explosion protection, all the while complying with the highest international standards and current directives. “With the new version of VEGAPULS 6X, we’ve achieved another milestone in safety technology,” says Marvin Moser with conviction.
Sensors enable safe processes for perfect food
The range of available foods is now greater than ever. Reliable quality and impeccable hygiene have long since become a basic requirement for consumers. With VEGA instrumentation, producers can ensure both and simplify their processes at the same time.
Hygienic down to the smallest detail
Food production is considered to be a very delicate business and the processes it involves are correspondingly costly and complex. The special demands placed on production are also reflected in the challenges faced by the measurement technology used. VEGA sensors for level and pressure are therefore certified according to the current standards for the food and pharmaceutical industries and comply with
✅ FDA
✅ ISPE GAMP
✅ ASME-BPE
✅ EHEDG
✅ 3-A Sanitary
They are made exclusively of corrosion-free materials and can be cleaned efficiently, ensuring that microorganisms are dependably removed. “Hygienic by design” can also be seen in the sensor surfaces that come into contact with the product: They have special roughness values of less than 0.8 µm and are even available electropolished. Seals were dispensed with wherever possible. VEGA measuring instruments are also designed for the critical aspects of CIP processes.
One connection – many possibilities
VEGA sensors can be quickly integrated into existing production facilities. The standardised fittings make this possible. The available hygienic adapters provide even more flexibility for the user and simplify processes at the same time. They are also diffusion-tight and extremely robust. The adapter system provides the right solution for every mounting situation.
A representative overview:
There’s a suitable sensor from VEGA for every application.
Sensors for measuring level
🟡 VEGAPULS 42
- Suitable for fast level changes
- Simple integration of process data thanks to IO-Link
- Maintenance-free operation with 80-GHz radar technology
- An illuminated ring ensures good readability, even from a distance
🟡 VEGAPULS 6X
- High accuracy
- Strong focussing
- Internals, such as agitators, do not influence the accuracy of the measuring result
- Reliable measurement of media with poor reflective properties, for example oily products
Sensors for measuring limit level
🟡 VEGASWING 61
- Universally applicable for all liquids
- Thanks to its reliable detection capability and long service life, the sensor is particularly suitable as overflow and dry-run protection in storage tanks for cleaning agents
🟡 VEGAPOINT
- Optional universal fitting for hygienic adapter simplifies installation and reduces spare parts inventory
- An illuminated ring ensures good readability, even from a distance
Sensors for measuring pressure
🟡 VEGABAR 28
- Reliable pressure monitoring of gases, vapours and liquids up to 130 °C
- Innovative CERTEC® ceramic measuring cell
- Optional universal fitting for hygienic adapter simplifies installation and reduces spare parts inventory
Digital solutions for easy monitoring
Not every measuring point is freely accessible or easy to reach. That’s why VEGA sensors with Bluetooth are designed to be conveniently operated via a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet. The VEGA Tools app enables easy commissioning and configuration.
