Neither dust nor large measuring ranges pose a challenge for the new LBR SicWave radar sensors from SICK
MINNEAPOLIS, MINN., SEPTEMBER 29, 2020 – When real estate space becomes expensive or scarce, you have to build upwards. It is common to see 300-foot tall silo systems for bulk material technology. Being able to exactly measure the level of these containers requires sensors that deliver reliable results, even over long distances and extreme conditions. The new LBR SicWave radar sensors from SICK accomplish this with measuring ranges of 400 feet. This performance is the result of the new 80 GHz radar frequency with its high dynamics and tightly focused aperture angle.
Measuring at a tighter angle means less interference in the signal return. Focusing on a small field of view is also very advantageous in radar measurement technology. While conventional radar sensors with a frequency of 6 or 26 GHz have an aperture angle of 10 to 15 degrees, the mere 3 degrees of the new LBR SicWave series make it comparable with a laser beam. The focusing makes it noticeably easier to precisely align the sensor to the material surface without constantly worrying about faults caused by interference from other installed equipment or deposits on the walls.
The focused beam path is also much more reliable in dusty environments, which is a natural product of bulk materials – especially when pneumatically filled. The tight beam also makes it easier to retrofit the modern SicWave radar sensor into existing structures due to the small process connections. Existing couplings often provide enough space for installation.
For easy installation, commissioning and monitoring, the new LBR SicWave radar sensors are equipped with a WPAN Bluetooth interface that enables access from up to 25 meters away with a smartphone app. Designed for bulk materials, the SicWave works reliably in a temperature range of -40 to +392 degrees Fahrenheit and at pressures between -1 and +20 bar.
The wide working range makes it possible to perform many different tasks with just one radar sensor, and without complex calibration. Defining the application and the measuring range with its minimum and maximum distance to the bulk materials as well as the Dielectric Constant of the material is sufficient. The DC value specifies how well material reflects radar beams. The sensitivity of these new sensor