Bulk weighing system basic knowledge
Load cells and a supporting frame form the basis of a weighing system. The frame keeps vertical forces aligned on the load cell for accurate measurement. It also protects the load cell from any damaging horizontal forces. Many installation styles exist. The application environment and requirements will decide which style to use. When the system has multiple load cells, it combines their signals in a junction box. This shows the weight reading. The junction box links to a digital weight indicator or controller. This shows the weight or sends the data to another production area. You can send weights to a PLC or PC. We use special software for batching systems, loss-in-weight systems, or belt scales.
Static weighing systems
Static weighing systems measure the net content of:
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hoppers
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drums
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silos
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big bags
They provide accurate readings for each type.
They can measure in kg or tons.
The load cell and mounting frame choice depends on several factors.
The key factors are:
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Gross weight
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Net weight
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Vibration
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Cleaning methods
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Contact with corrosive substances.
ATEX zoning is also important.
When picking an indicator or controller, think about your needs. Think about the functional requirements. Also, consider how it connects to the PLC. Finally, think about where and how it will be installed.
Some controllers go in the production area. Others are set up in the control office. You can calibrate by using a measured amount of material in a container. You can also use certified calibration weights. To ensure trade compliance, verify the weighing system’s accuracy with calibration weights.
Silo weighing
Silo weighing systems are very similar to static weighing systems. When installing silos outdoors, it’s important to consider factors like strong winds. Special load cell brackets handle strong winds and still give precise weight. The brackets have anti-toppling functions. They help protect against silo toppling and prevent it.
For bigger silo weighing systems, it’s best to use indicators with automatic calibration. This makes calibration easier. You can enter and store load cell data in the indicator. This lets you calibrate without using weights or materials.
GL Hopper Tank Silo Batching and Weighing Module
Belt scales
Belt scales go on conveyor belts. They help track how much material moves or loads onto trucks or barges. Operators can use short conveyor belt scales. This helps them control material flow. They can keep the supply steady to a machine or production line.
You can use a spiral scale instead of a belt scale, and it has the advantage of creating a closed system. Engineers design spiral scales primarily to weigh dusty materials. These include animal feed, cement, and fly ash.
GW Column Alloy Steel Stainless Steel Weigh Modules
Throughput scales
Throughput scales, or bulk scales, allow you to stop material flow for batch weighing. The team installed two hoppers in the transport route, one on top of the other, and fitted each with a shut-off valve. Three or four load cells weigh the bottom hopper. The top hopper serves as a buffer during this weighing process. The main benefit of the throughput scale is that it can measure material flow all the time. It does this with the same accuracy as static weighing. However, these systems do require more headroom before installation.
M23 Reactor Tank Silo Cantilever Beam Weighing Module
Loss-in-weight system
The loss-in-weight system measures the hopper and conveyor’s weight. This helps track weight loss (in kg/h) and figure out throughput. The system always compares the capacity with the setpoint or minimum capacity. If the actual capacity is different from the setpoint, the conveyor speed changes. When the hopper approaches emptiness, the system stops the conveyor. This pause allows for refilling the hopper so the metering system can keep working. The loss-in-weight system is perfect for measuring powders and granules. It works for weights from 1 to 1,000 kg per hour.
Picking the right dosing and feeding system can be tough because there are many choices. An industry expert can help you find the best system for your business. They can also recommend the right load cells and brackets to meet your needs.
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Post time: Feb-26-2025
