July 9, 2007

8 Min Read
Weighing & Batching

pbs0707p5b.jpgCompact Industrial Scales
Signum compact industrial scales provide a wide variety of functions that can be customized to the application level and needs of a client’s application. Three predefined application levels are available in each of three Signum models; Signum Regular SIWR features a sophisticated strain-gauge-type load cell and resolution of up to 35,000 d; Signum Advanced SIWA uses a mechatronic strain-gauge-type load cell for resolution up to 65,000 d; Signum Supreme SIWS features a monolithic weigh cell based on electromagnetic force compensation with a resolution of up to 350,000 d. Dual-range scales in each of these models can be selected for either a fine set range or one that is continuous over the entire capacity range. Application Level 1 includes six keys and is well-suited for simple weighing. Application Level 2 includes all functions of Application Level 1 plus a port for a reference scale, as well as counting, totalization, checkweighing, and classification programs. Application Level 3 includes all functions of Application Level 2 plus product data storage with bar code input, and filling and sample counting with automatic reference weight updating. All are fast and user-friendly and offer a large selection of communication interfaces for addition of a reference scale, or for operation and data transfer, including Ethernet and PLC connectivity.
Sartorius Corp., Edgewood, NY 800-635-2906 www.sartorius-usa.com

pbs0707p9a.jpgProgrammable Controller
The model 788 programmable controller can be used in batching, mixing, or chemical processing applications, handling multiple ingredients, formula storage, and material layering. The unit offers batching control of chemicals, feed, food, powder, and concrete. The 320 × 240-resolution backlit graphical LCD with QWERTY keyboard also offers 14 programmable soft keys for added versatility. The controller now features eight slots for scale input, optional I/O, and special function cards.
Cardinal Scale Mfg. Co., Webb City, MO 800-441-4237 www.CardinalScale.com

pbs0707p9b.jpgAllen Bradley–Compatible Weigh Scale Modules
These Allen Bradley–compatible weigh scale modules read data from load cells and communicate net, gross, rate-of-change, and tare-value weight data and status information over the I/O backplane to the Allen Bradley processor. Mounted directly into the Allen Bradley I/O chassis, these single- and dual-scale modules eliminate the need for any external communications link, therefore reducing installation costs. The modules work with ControlLogix, Series 5, SLC 500, CompactLogix, and MicroLogix 1500 processors. All modules include Waversaver technology, which ignores vibration around scales for fast and accurate weighing.
Hardy Instruments, San Diego, CA 800-821-5831 www.hardyinstruments.com

pbs0707p15a.jpgBatching Controller
The Model 880A batching controller is simple to operate in even the most demanding applications. Features of the standard version include a full alphanumeric keypad, dual fiber-optic LCD display, three full-duplex communications ports, three TTL setpoints, and the ability to store hundreds of recipes while controlling eight ingredients. The unit is configured in a NEMA 12 or NEMA 4 stainless-steel version and is well suited for harsh industrial environments.
Sterling Scale Company, Inc., Southfield, MI 800-331-9931 www.sterlingscale.com

pbs0707p15b.jpgSmart Force Transducer
The Smart Force Transducer III (SFT III) digital weighing technology has been incorporated into select gravimetric feeding and metering equipment. With a mechanical package specifically designed and optimized for duty in process applications involving single-point weighing, the SFT III is standard in the company’s SWB300 and SWB600 Smart Weigh belt feeders, K4G gravimetric blender, and SFM350 and SFM 275A Smart Flow flowmeters. The company’s other gravimetric feeders employ multipoint weighing, or a scale, and use the SFT II sensor. The SFT III’s single vibrating wire and parallelogram design resist torsional loading, making it suitable for unconstrained single-point weighing. Its monolithic structure produces a stiff and responsive measurement system with low deflection and no barometrically sensitive components. Sealed in a NEMA 4/IP65 housing, the transducer’s low power requirement permits it to be made intrinsically safe and approved for ATEX Zones 0, 1, and 2 dust and gas environments.
K-Tron, Pitman, NJ 856-589-0500 www.ktron.com

pbs0707p18b.jpgDigital Weight Indicator
Designed for economy-based applications, the Model 180 digital weight indicator features a highly visible, 0.56-in.-high, bright-red LED and is “legal for trade.” The unit features gross, tare, net conversion, and an all-stainless-steel enclosure. Serial connectivity allows for output to one label/ticket printer or PC, and nCONTROL ticket/label printing configuration software is also available.
Cardinal Scale Mfg. Co., Webb City, MO 800-441-4237 www.cardinalscale.com

pbs0707p18c.jpgInsertion Weigh Belt Module
The weigh belt feeder series SI Insertion Weigh Belt Module has been designed to easily fit into an existing belt or vibratory conveyor line and comes in either “scale over” or “scale under” design. A short support framework and a 24-in.-long V-guided conveyor (12, 18, or 24 in. wide) make the module practical for insertion into a transition space between existing conveyors or equipment. The weigher uses a patented Model 15L precision flexure-plate suspension scale with FMSS technology. The scale provides for complete mass counterbalancing of the dead load of the conveyor, permitting the load sensor to react only to the net material load. The system is not affected by dirt, shocks, or vibration, and it can withstand overloads in excess of 1000 lb without causing damage or affecting calibration. The advanced and robust sensing technology is based on the marriage of the LVDT, embedded temperature sensing, properly linerizing, and temperature compensation algorithms.
Thayer Scale-Hyer Industries Inc., Pembroke, MA 781-826-8101 www.thayerscale.com

pbs0707p20b.jpgNet Weigher
The Model NW-50 food-grade net-carton-filling system feeds 20 to 30 lb of snack-food chips to 16 × 20-in. cartons at 4 cartons/min with an accuracy of ±0.1 lb. Cartons are indexed into position, filled, vibrated, and moved out all on a powered-roller conveyor. The machine features rugged, long-lasting components requiring minimum maintenance.
Metso BEST Inc., Brunswick, OH 800-827-9237 www.bestvibes.com

pbs0707p20c.jpgWeight Indicators and Controllers
The 60-series weight indicators and controllers meet demanding application needs with the latest technology in controls, flexible programming, and functionality. Users can collect real-time data in the background with WedgePlus Software or use the powerful Windows-based ActiveX controls to acquire and manage data and process statistics. Users can also go wireless with RF communication modules and connect peripherals serially and/or network via advanced Fieldbus communication modules such as Ethernet, DeviceNet, Profibus, and Modbus. Units can be programmed with GSE macro, User C Software, or the standard turnkey applications: batching, truck in/out, average piece weight look-up, filling, and checkweighing. Units can be fully configured or customized with Rabbet Software.
SPX GSE, Allen Park, MI 800-755-7875 www.gse-inc.com

pbs0707p43a.jpgDustproof Checkweigher
The Intell-Check stainless-steel washdown checkweighing indicator and portable bench scale series is designed for critical powder and bulk solids applications. The graphic indicator offers high visibility for ease of use, easier training, and minimization of operator error. It includes variable-speed weighing, full keyboard tare, HI-OK-LO display with configurable buzzer output, and bidirectional RS-232 connectivity for easy downloading of GMP data such as lot number, time, and date. Functions also include memory store and recall, limit and target weight modes, net/gross function, pretare function, accumulation and percentage. The indicator is manufactured from corrosion-proof stainless steel and meets NEMA 4X/IP67 classification.
Intelligent Weighing Technology Inc., Ventura, CA 805-642-3034 www.intelligentwt.com

pbs0707p44b.jpgProgrammable Indicator and Controller
The 920i programmable HMI indicator/controller takes charge of process applications and provides open connectivity to most popular networking interfaces. When used in batching/mixing applications, one 920i is capable of handling flow, temperature, pulse, and multiple scales. It can control hundreds of I/O setpoints, queue gates, and conveyors; perform yield management functions; track transactions and inventory records; and store, manipulate, and report data. Advanced diagnostics can be added with the optional iQUBE digital diagnostic junction box that detects weighing errors, automatically signals the indicator, and alerts the operator to potential inaccuracies.
Rice Lake Weighing Systems, Rice Lake, WI 715-234-3494 www.ricelake.com

pbs0707p45a.jpgWeight Controllers
Only 3 in. deep, the HI 4050 general-purpose weight controller is now available with a rate-of-change weight-monitoring capability, four-channel analog, and Modbus TCP/IP network communications. The rate-of-change mode allows the user to monitor the flow rate of a material on a scale in either gain-in-weight or loss-in-weight applications. Four independent analog outputs, two current and two voltage, can be configured to any of the instrument’s parameters. Modbus TCP/IP is a vendor-neutral and open-communication protocol, suitable for supervision and control of automation equipment. The Modbus/TCP protocol operates on all physical network layers supporting TCP/IP, which comprises 10Base-T and 100Base-T LANs. The controller includes Waversaver to eliminate the effects of surrounding vibration for fast, stable weight display, C2 electronic calibration without test weights, a secure-digital-based Secure Memory Module card for fast transfer of configuration data, and Integrated Technician for system diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Hardy Instruments, San Diego, CA 800-821-5831 www.hardyinstruments.com

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