ASI launches food detection for tricky applications
frequency capacitance switches designed for point level detection
in challenging food applications such as sticky slurries,reports
Anthony Fletcher.
The series features LED operation and calibration lights, visible through its standard window cover, with an out-of-calibration indication. Modular electronics are built around ASI's patented Ashield technology, which provides immunity to material build-up, ensuring reliable and repeatable operation.
ASI says that ShieldPoint's rugged probe designs mean there are no moving parts to wear out. The new range should help food manufacturers achieve more exact measurements and detect any problems during production, thus helping them to cut costs.
The ShieldPoint 300 is a single-point level switch featuring 3-element shielded probes and a 10-amp DPDT relay. The ShieldPoint 400 is a multi-point switch with a variety of probe options, including a 3-elementprobe, Teflon coated or bare rods and cables, along with 2 SPDT 10-amp relays.
The ShieldPoint 400 allows a choice of three operating modes - single setpoint, dual setpoint, and pump control. The dual setpoint function means the unit can be used to replace two single point switches for the cost of one.
"RF capacitance switching is a time tested technology," said Robert Hotard, product manager for radar and RF products at ASI Instruments. "TheShieldPoint series adds to that with an easy-to-use calibration process and the industry's largest selection of rugged probe designs.
"You could say we took what was already a good wheel design and put a better set of tires on it."
ASI says that ShieldPoint features a simple, one-step calibration process that uses an external magnet. With the LED indicator lamps, visible through the glass window cover, adjustments such as calibration, sensitivity, and time delay can be made while maintaining the explosion-proof integrity of the switch.
The out-of-calibration warning lets the user know when build-up is present on the probe and recalibration may be needed.
The ShieldPoint300 and ShieldPoint400 are housed in single compartment, powder-coated aluminum enclosures. Stainless steel enclosures are also available for corrosive applications where aluminium may not stand up to theelements.
ASI's new range is just one of a number of methods that food manufacturers can adopt to determine the texture and consistency of food during production. Other systems have recently been developed that can even penetrate food in several places to give an average reading.
