Occasionally I get a product introduction that I think is worth taking note of here. Today I got one. Siemens has a new radar level gauge, for solids. I'll let their press release tell you all about it. I wanna see one, and I wanna see one working-- because if it does, it is going to be really cool.
SIEMENS INTRODUCES SITRANS LR560
MICROWAVE RADAR LEVEL TRANSMITTER FOR SOLIDS MEASUREMENT
World’s First 78 GHz (W Band) Designed for Accuracy and Performance
ATLANTA, Feb. 27, 2011 –Siemens Industry Automation Division announced today the launch of the Sitrans LR560, the world’s first 78 GHz (W Band) microwave radar level transmitter for solids level measurement. Siemens Sitrans LR560 combines level measuring with superior accuracy in tough environments, with intelligent signal processing for optimum performance at all operating stages.
The Sitrans LR560 transmitter is equipped with a newly developed lens-style antenna and uses non-contacting Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar technology. This new design is unrivaled in the instrumentation market today, and its benefits will be realized by industrial processes such as cement powder, plastic powder/pellets, grain, coal, wood powder and fly ash.
“The Sitrans LR560 sets the technological and innovative tone in the level transmitter market today, and its function and design will continue to help Siemens set the standard in the solids level measurement industry,” says Todd Gardner, vice president, Sensors and Communications at Siemens Industry, Inc.
Sitrans LR560’s plug and play performance is ideal for most solids applications, including those with extreme dust and high temperatures to +200 ºC (+392 ºF). Its unique design allows safe and simple programming using the Intrinsically Safe handheld programmer without having to open the instrument’s lid.
Sitrans LR560 is a non-contacting 2-wire FMCW radar level measurement transmitter with a measurement range of 100 meters (328 ft). The transmitter emits a narrow four degree beam which avoids, for example, silo wall obstructions and other installation interferences, allowing it to be installed anywhere on the top of the silo.
Along with the narrow beam emission of the Sitrans LR560, its high frequency also enables the product to emit a very short wavelength to provide exceptional signal reflection, even from solids with a steep angle of repose. The high resolution graphical interface with its Quick Start Wizard menu guides the user and expedites start-time to less than 1 minute for accurate and reliable level measurement readings without any fine-tuning.
Sitrans LR560 is available with HART®, PROFIBUS PA, or FOUNDATION™ Fieldbus protocol. Programming is supported locally with pushbuttons or with an infrared handheld programmer. The transmitter also supports remote configuration and diagnostics with Siemens’ Simatic PDM (Process Device Manager), Emerson AMS™, or PACTWARE™ using Siemens DTM. The local display interface features a backlit display and can be rotated to four positions for convenience.
The unique lens antenna is highly resistant to material build-up and a built-in purge system is included for cleaning exceptionally sticky solids material. The high frequency operation makes aiming unnecessary, but the optional aiming flange helps direct the beam to an area of specific interest, such as the discharge area of a silo cone. The innovative functionality of the Sitrans LR560 makes it the best performing instrument for dusty solids applications.
Sitrans LR560 includes an optional graphical Local Display Interface (LDI) that improves setup and operation using an intuitive Quick Start Wizard, and echo profile display for diagnostic support.
For additional product information, visit http://www.automation.siemens.com/w1/automation-technology-sitrans-lr560-20328.htm
Sitrans LR560 Features:
Technology: FMCA radar
Range: 100 m (328 ft)
Process Temperature: -40° to 200° C (-40 to 392° F)
Process Pressure: Up to 3 bar g (43.5 psi g)
• Rugged stainless steel design for industrial applications
• 78 GHz high frequency provides very narrow beam, virtually no mounting nozzle noise, and optimal reflection from sloped solids
• Aimer options to direct beam a area of interest, such as draw point of cone
• Lens antenna is highly resistant to product build-up
• Air purge connection is included for self-cleaning of sticky solids
• Local Display Interface (LDI) allows local programming and diagnostics
