K-Tek:
Ultrasonic level transmitter/switch
Tuesday, May 27, 2008

K-TEK, a leading manufacturer of state-of-the-art instrumentation for level measurement, today announced the KSONIK MICRO, a compact, low cost, ultrasonic level transmitter/switch designed for liquid and bulk solids level applications. The KSONIK MICRO features Variable GAP technology that allows the instrument to work even in the presence of dust, vapor, or foam. Variable GAP technology also provides the narrowest beam angle in the industry, less than four degrees; this allows the transmitter to make accurate measurements in narrow vessels. The KSONIK MICRO features an electronic filter that removes ambient noise, such as from falling rocks and grain. Integrated KSCOPE display provides detailed data and trends, including echo profiles. Adjustable threshold means level measurements can be made even with H-beams present in a silo.
The KSONIK MICRO measures liquid levels to 32.8 feet (10 meters) and bulk solids to 16 feet (5 meters). Blanking distances have been shortened to less than one (1) foot. A 4-20 mA output is standard for remote indication or remote control. A single pole-double throw (SPDT) relay can be used to activate alarms and pumps.
"For the first time, obstacles like dust, vapor, and foam do not limit the range of a level instrument," stated Kevin Barnfather, Director of Sales and Marketing, Ultrasonic Products, K-TEK. "The KSONIK MICRO combines the highest accuracy for simple level measurement applications and ample power for challenging environments. Our unique, Variable GAP technology means we can make accurate level measurements in difficult environments that our competitors cannot face, such as high ambient noise and dusty, narrow tanks. Our on-board KSCOPE software takes level measurement to new heights by providing quick and easy access to detailed process information, including echo profiles and trends."
Variable GAP Technology
Ultrasonic measurements are based on the Time-of-Flight (TOF) of an acoustic wave that is emitted from a transducer and directed toward the product being measured. This wave is reflected back toward the transducer and then converted to an electric signal. The KSONIK MICRO features a unique approach to measurements using Variable GAP -- Gain, Amplitude, and Power - technology. Variable GAP ensures accurate measurements by always working with the smallest return signal. The Gain is automatically increased if the return echo is being absorbed by dust or foam in the environment. If the instrument cannot hear the return echo after adjusting the gain, the Amplitude is automatically increased. If the device still cannot hear the echo, the Power is automatically adjusted.
Working together, Variable GAP provides 32,000 different combinations, guaranteeing measurements using the best echoes. GAP is automatic and dynamic; no two shots are the same. This means the KSONIK MICRO is always learning, constantly delivering a better return echo.
KSCOPE DISPLAY
The KSONIK MICRO's integrated display provides easy access to detailed readings, including distance and level, percentage fill, flow rate, total flow, height to the top of the material being measured, and temperature. An on-board echo profile provides full diagnostics which can also indicate trends.
The KSONIK MICRO is housed in an IP65 polycarbonate enclosure. The transducer uses PVDF wetted parts for corrosive environments.
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