Hawk Measurement Systems, a leading global provider of level, positioning, and flow measurement technology, has announced an order for 18 Orca Sonar units for the $2.5 billion Ambatovy nickel mine in Madagascar.

Hawk received an order to provide interface level detectors for all 18 thickeners at the mine. SNC Lavalin in Toronto, Canada performed the engineering for this phase of the project. They ordered the interface level detectors from Hawk based on successful installations at other mine sites. SNC Lavalin found that the Hawk units were the only equipment available that could meet the temperature specifications, chemical compatibility, EX certification, and performance requirements.

The Orca systems are based on fourth-generation sonar technology. The transducers selected for this application will be high-powered, three crystal array versions, and will require special materials for high-temperature operation and chemical resistance. Each transducer array produces a high-powered acoustic pulse, allowing the sonar signal to penetrate deeply into the liquid and suspended solids in the tank. The signal is then returned by the change in density at the selected interface level. The Orca control unit processes the raw signal using advanced software. Each unit can monitor two separate interface levels or one interface level and clarity. Because the outputs from the Orca system are stable, they can be used to control other process functions.

The Orca system has been designed to be user-friendly and reliable. Calibration and setup are simple. The control unit for the system includes Smart features and can communicate using several communications protocols, including DeviceNet, GosHawk, Modbus, HART, Profibus DP, Foundation Fieldbus, and Profibus PA. A remote CDMA/GSM connection is also available as an option. This allows any authorized user with a computer and a standard modem to calibrate, test, or check on the performance of the unit from anywhere in the world.

For more information, call Jack Evans at 888-429-5538 or visit www.hawkmeasure.com.