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Budget pricing for flexible bin level indicator

A K-Tek product story

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Mar 25, 2003

The Model KP bin level indicator is a robust paddle switch that comes with all available features and options at a price 15% less than comparable switches.

The Model KP bin level indicator is a robust paddle switch that comes with all available features and options at a price 15% less than comparable switches.

Until now, plant engineers measuring and controlling the contents of bulk solids within bins, silos, and other vessels could only select from a limited choice of paddle switches offered at top dollar.

The new KP bin level indicator enters the field with a broad range of flexibility for a multitude of applications where reliability ranks paramount, but cost containment runs a close second.

Additionally, the KP bin level indicator offers the industry's first screw-off cover for easy accessibility during installation and maintenance.

"Most other paddle switches have bolts, so when it comes time to take the cover off and wire the switch or replace the motor, the technician has to remove six bolts and try to find a place to put them while he is 40ft up in the air - which is often the case", notes Rick Ayers, K-Tek Sales Manager.

"Invariably, he will drop one of the bolts onto the floor.

But with the KP Model, it's a real plus because it's easier for the tech to get to".

The KP bin level indicator also uses a low speed (1rev/min) low torque, synchronous motor that always stays energised to eliminate moisture.

Other paddle switches that stop and start allow condensation to collect after the motor cools.

"The trouble with condensation that builds up in a carbon steel housing or an aluminium housing, is that it creates rust and corrosion", notes Ayers.

"When the material level drops and the paddle is supposed to turn, the paddle won't budge and the gears wear out.

The process then grinds to a halt while the tech climbs up onto the silo to service older generation switches".

The hysteresis motor of the KP bin level indicator allows it to run in a restricted or completely stalled state without damage or overheating.

A safety clutch further protects motor gearing (metal) by absorbing sudden shocks.

When the unit eventually senses the presence of dry material via the restricted motion of the paddle, the reversing torque actuates one or two internal SPDT (single pole, double throw) switches that can control up to two operations, such as sounding an alarm or shutting off a conveyor belt or feeder.

AC switch ratings approach 20A resistive.

DC feeds rate at 0.5A/125V or 0.25A/250V DC.

One switch can even activate a built-in indicator light on the outside of the housing to provide visual confirmation of bin "state/status" from the plant floor.

To accommodate a wide range of applications, the KP bin level indicator demonstrates flexibility in mounting configurations - offering both vertical or horizontal positioning - via an industry standard mounting plate of 304 stainless steel, flexible shaft couplings and shaft extensions and guards up to 7.6m.

Drop in replacement of existing roto-paddle switches is facilitated by a wide variety of KP bin level paddles for different product densities.

Harsh environments are managed by way of noncontact, double shielded bearings, shaft lip seal rated to 9.7bar and operating temperatures of -40 to +120C.

A choice of 120 or 240V AC operating voltages permits additional retrofitting possibilities.

The KP bin level indicator is immediately available with a range of options-such as explosion-proof housing (FM approval pending) - to meet the needs of reliably measuring and controlling bulk solids.

"When it comes to handling dry level, paddle switches are the standard", says Ayers, "you can't beat them because they're mechanical, straightforward, easy to install; and with the introduction the KP bin level indicator, they're now inexpensive".