Alfa Laval tank instrumentation is reliable and efficient

Published: 3-Aug-2010

Weighing systems, level switches and conductivity sensors are included


Alfa Laval has added instrumentation for the biopharm industry to its tank equipment offering. All instruments are certified to the relevant standards for use in sanitary production (3-A, FDA, CE, ATEX, etc.) and combine reliability with efficiency and practicality, the firm says.

The new UltraPure weighing systems are suitable for mixing, dosing, level regulation or batch tasks, providing enhanced control, reliability and precision. Patented technology eliminates the need for mounting kits, reducing costs and resulting in a simpler, faster installation process. The robust systems are shockproof, unaffected by welding voltages and can tolerate up to 300% overload or side load. Calibration of the load cell is not dependent on cable length, so the unit will not malfunction if the cable needs to be cut to length during installation.

New level switches provide remote level indication and are suitable for smaller process tanks. A built-in feature ensures the sensor is unaffected by exposure to foam and residues that adhere when the tank is emptied. All wetted parts are made of AISI 316L stainless steel and PEEK, and withstand process temperatures between –20°C and +140°C, making them suitable for both Cleaning in Place (CIP) and Sterilisation in Place (SIP) processes.

Alfa Laval’s conductivity sensors measure a process liquid’s ability to carry electrical currents. All wetted parts are made of AISI 316L stainless steel and PEEK, and they are suitable for CIP and SIP. Measurements are accurate even at very low conductivity and flow rates, and the conductivity sensors can be remotely controlled. An extra feature is the integrated temperature sensor for temperature compensation. This is offered as a 4–20mA output, providing the user with two measurements in one physical connection point. The integrated display enables local supervision, as well as quick and easy setup.

A flow transmitter is also included in the instrumentation range. This precision magnetic flow transmitter is used for volumetric measurement of liquids with a certain degree of electrical conductivity – even liquids containing solid particles. It features an integrated microprocessor that constantly monitors performance.

The flow transmitter is waterproof to protection class IP 67 and has been enhanced to withstand process temperatures between –20°C and +120°C, making it suitable for Cleaning in Place (CIP) and Sterilisation in Place (SIP) processes. Furthermore, the accuracy of plus/minus 0.2% can be obtained down to 10% of maximum flow rate.

Completing Alfa Laval’s tank instrumentation range are:
  • Potentiometric level transmitters
  • Pressure transmitters
  • Temperature transmitters
  • Pressure gauges
  • Thermometers
  • Flow meters
  • Rotacheck system

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