Chute Height Sensor
The SRI chute height sensor measures the height of bagasse in a Donnelly chute above the mill, and is typically used in the control system for the flow of bagasse through a sugarcane crushing mill or, for the first mill, to control speed of the prepared cane feed elevator.
The height is measured via stainless steel electrodes installed in the chute wall.
The SRI chute height sensor measures conductivity to determine the presence of material at each electrode. Chute height control is an important control component that evens out bagasse flow through the mill. Clients benefit with reduced energy usage and lower risk of mechanical failure, because the mill feed is more consistent. Higher extraction can be expected from mills with good chute height control.
Major features
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Microprocessor technology measures the conductivity of material surrounding each electrode. The SRI chute height sensor determines the number of electrodes covered and updates the current output which is ramped to provide a pseudo analogue output. A number of detection algorithms allow the elimination of false sensing.
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The SRI chute height system has the flexibility of being able to measure one chute with up to 16 electrodes, or two chutes with up to 8 electrodes in each chute. When operating in dual chute mode, two 4-20 mA analogue output signals are provided.
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As well as analogue outputs, single pole double throw (SPDT) relay outputs can optionally be fitted for high/ low level alarms or chute height indicator lights independent of the mill control system.
Commissioning
Most mills install and commission their SRI chute height sensors without external assistance. However we can provide commissioning engineers onsite to assist with configuration and calibration if necessary.
Ongoing support
The SRI chute height sensor is a toughened product, suitable for the harsh environment typical of a sugar mill. It will give many years of trouble-free service.
Email, phone and fax support is provided free for the life of the product.
In the unlikely event of failure, SRI provides a “return to base” repair facility. For full details or to organise a repair, use the contact details provided on this page.
Downloads
SRI chute height sensor datasheet (PDF format, 420kB)