Hydro-Mix - Rugged Flush Mounted Microwave Moisture Measurement Sensor for Mixers & Conveyors
From Sensor - Concrete & Construction
The Hydro-Mix is a rugged, flush mounted microwave moisture measurement sensor for mixers and conveyors in process control environments. Designed by Hydronix to be installed in the turbulent environment of a mixer, the Hydro-Mix features integral signal processing and is easily connected to any control system. The sensor measures at 25 times per second which enables rapid response to any changes in moisture content, including the determination of homogeneity.
Overview
The Hydro-Mix sensor offers a choice of measurement modes for optimising the sensor performance for sand, aggregates, concrete and other similar materials. The sensor is designed to be fitted flush within a mixer, screw conveyor (auger) or in a chute. For conveyor belt applications, the Hydro-Mix sensor is installed using the Hydro-Skid pantograph arm enabling the sensor to ride over the surface of the flowing material.
Remote configuration, calibration, diagnostics and firmware upgrades can easily be undertaken using Hydronix Hydro-Com software. This allows direct integration with any control system without the requirement of any other interface unit. Combined with on-board functionality such as signal processing, smoothing and averaging, the Hydro-Mix is simple to integrate.
Features
The Hydro-Mix is a digital moisture sensor that has been designed to fit flush with the floor of a mixer or conveyor. It will accurately measure moisture content of the material at 25 times per second as it passes across the ceramic face plate during processing.
Digital technology provides precise, linear moisture measurement.
Advanced Digital Signal ProcessingThe sensor response may be adjusted remotely using the Hydro-Com software to minimise the effects of noise of the measured signal. Advanced Digital Signal Processing provides a clear signal with a rapid response.
Measurement ModesChoice of measurement modes for optimising sensor performance in a variety of applications and material types.
Fully Temperature Compensated MeasurementThe sensor internally adjusts for mechanical changes due to temperature fluctuations
Easy to InterfaceTwo analogue outputs and digital RS485 communications and configurable digital inputs / output make the sensor simple to integrate into a control system.
Measuring in the MixMeasuring at 25 times per second the sensor continuously detects changes in the moisture of the materials throughout processing.
Temperature MeasurementTemperature output is available to provide a readout of material temperature.
Easily replaceable on site or by a Hydronix approved reseller, this is a fast and cost effective solution to minimise downtime and the inconvenience of a return to base repair.
Wear LifeThe ceramic faceplate and steel protection ring are the only parts exposed to wear when installed. Under normal use and regular maintenance, the sensor will last for many years.
Accuracy of MeasurementAll measurements may, if required, be calibrated to an accuracy of +/- 0.2%. If used to reach a target the accuracy can be better than 0.1%
Sensor ConfigurationThe Hydro-Mix can be remotely configured using Hydro-Com diagnostic software. All readings and sensor parameters are available including the type of output and filtering characteristics.
CalibrationThe sensor may be internally calibrated using the Hydro-Com software, or the linear output may be calibrated within the control system or by use of the Hydronix Hydro-View calibration unit.
Simple Power RequirementsThe Hydro-Mix may be powered from a 15-30V dc supply. Multiple sensors may be driven from a single power source.
The Hydro-Mix is a rugged microwave sensor designe...
The Hydro-Mix is a rugged microwave sensor designed to measure moisture in manufacturing industries that use mixers and blenders during processing. Typical applications that use this sensor are aggregates, concrete and asphalt production.
- Body: Stainless Steel
- Protection Ring : Hardened Steel
- Faceplate: Ceramic
The Hydro-Mix is secured to a fixing plate by a clamp ring. This allows the height of the sensor to be adjusted if necessary.
Analogue Outputs2 Configurable 0-20mA or 4-20mA current loop source available for moisture and temperature. May also be converted to 0-10V DC.
Digital Inputs/Output2 configurable digital signals are provided for batch average start/stop or for moisture / temperature multiplexing purposes.
Digital (Serial) CommunicationsOpto-isolated RS485 2-wire port. Uses Hydro-Com communications protocol for read/write access to sensor parameters and values. Ethernet and USB interfaces are also available.
The sensor will measure up to saturation of material.
Material PenetrationApproximately 75-100mm dependent on material.
Operating Temperature0-60 degrees C. The sensor will not measure in ice.
Refresh RateOutputs are updated 25 times per second.
ConnectionsThe sensor is fitted with a 10-way MIL-SPEC connector. A 4, 10 or 25 metre, 6 twisted pair cable pre-assembled for connection to a waterproof junction box is available.
Power Supply+15Vdc to +30Vdc. 4W
Connections
The Hydro-Mix is a flush mount moisture sensor that can be connected to a control system in three ways: analogue, digital or via the Hydro-Control water control unit. The RS485 serial interface allows up to 16 sensors to connect directly to a control system via a serial communications link. There are 2 analogue outputs which can be configured to 4-20mA, 0-20mA (0-10V), 1 configurable digital input and 1 configurable digital input / output. These different options provide the plant manager with the flexibility to select the most suitable method of connecting to their control system.
There are various options for interfacing between the sensor and the control system using a Hydronix approved Ethernet, USB or RS232/RS485 adapter. Alternatively, the Hydro-View moisture display can be used to provide real time on-line process measurements including both moisture and temperature. In it's simplest configuration the analogue output from the Hydro-Mix can be connected to a Scaleable Current Loop Display to display the current moisture.
Cabling
Cabling
Hydronix supplies various cable lengths incorporating the required 10 way MIL-SPEC connector. This enables the sensor signal to be sent to a Control System or PC for configuration and calibration.
Recommended field cabling:
- Six pairs twisted (12 cores total) screened (shielded) cable with 22 AWG, 0.35mm2 conductors
- Screen (shield): Braid with 65% minimum coverage plus aluminium/polyester foil
- Recommended cable types: Belden 8306, Alpha 6373
- Maximum cable run: 100m, separate to any heavy equipment power cables
Installation and Mounting
The Hydro-Mix digital microwave moisture sensor is designed for use with all types of static pan mixers. For applications that require moisture measurement in materials that are processed using a chute or screw conveyor, the sensor is flush mounted so will not impede the progress of the material as it moves through processing. The sensor should be positioned in the flow of material, so should ideally be located on the mixer or conveyor floor.
Brief details for mounting the Hydro-Mix sensor in different types of mixer can be found below, and full details regarding both installation and calibration can be found in the User Guide.
Customer reviews
No reviews were found for Hydro-Mix - Rugged Flush Mounted Microwave Moisture Measurement Sensor for Mixers & Conveyors. Be the first to review!