LEVEL MEASUREMENT PROBE AN ALTERNATIVE TO TRADITIONAL SYSTEMS

The Level Transmitter Mining-2 (LTM-2) level measurement probe from Pretoria-based measuring instrument supplier, Instek Control, aims to be an alternative to traditional measurement systems, as it provides accurate level measurement in various difficult and sometimes seemingly impossible measuring environments.

Suitable for use in the mining, pulp and paper industries, the probe is a two-wire-loop-powered instrument, which is constructed from high-grade stainless steel, with no moving parts. It uses a principle, called the electro potentiometric effect, to determine the froth and pulp interface.

“The LTM-2 pulp level monitoring probe technology dramatically reduces the complication of slurry level interface monitoring under a range of froth and flotation conditions,” enthuses Instek Control managing member Raymond Karsten.

Karsten further mentions that installing the LTM-2 probe instead of ultrasonic or pressure equipment has the advantage of not being density dependent and is not sensitive to froth or product build-up.

The probe can be installed within five minutes and requires low maintenance, thereby making it “virtually maintenance free” as there are no mechanical moving parts.

“The probe accurately measures the pulp/ froth interface and provides a stable feedback signal at an optimal update rate, without excessive damping, providing improved process control and stability,” Karsten says.

Installations and findings worldwide

Karsten notes that with installations worldwide on various concentrators. Numerous mining companies have benefitted from the accuracy and reliability of the LTM-2 probe.

The LTM-2 level probe has been installed in flotation cells (bank and tank), as well as column cells and sumps on Gold, Platinum and Copper concentrators with huge success.

The LTM-2 probe has the following advantages over other technologies, which makes it a very good choice for the mining Industry.

·It is not Density Dependent or affected by Density

·It does not need any form of wave (Ultrasonic/ Radar)

·It has no moving parts

·Installation and Commissioning is simple and easy

·No re-calibration required once the probe has been installed and set-up

·2 -wire loop powered device which fits easily into most current installations without the need to re-do wiring.

·It is not dependent on a constant/ regulated air supply

Karsten notes that false level readings from standard procedures can also cause instability to downstream processes and wear on control valves. He adds that losses can occur, owing to either the ball-and-striker plate getting stuck or when the float ball detaches from the rod. In some instances the level Instrument has even identified secondary problems on the concentrator, the worst being Dart Valve stems broken.

The probe delivers high speed accurate signals in the sections where it has been implemented.