Laser transmitter goes to extremes with accuracy

A K-Tek product story

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team May 18, 2004

The LM200 laser transmitter is designed for measurement of dry bulk solids, opaque liquids and slurries at distances up to 60m.

The LM200 laser transmitter is designed for measurement of dry bulk solids, opaque liquids and slurries at distances up to 60m.

The unit features an advanced timing system and sophisticated, self-correcting signal processing functions that allow it to accurately and reliably measure level, distance, and position in the harshest of conditions.

The LM200 works even in the presence of dust, vapours or turbulence, as are commonly found in large silos of coal, grain, or plastics, and in underground mines or quarries.

The system's all-digital design provides speed and accuracy in a compact unit.

A rugged, powder-coated aluminium enclosure, rated for IP65 or NEMA 4X, with CL II and III, Div 1 and 2, Gr E, F, G dust ignition proof ratings to FM and CSA, ensures operation in a variety of challenging environments.

Stainless-steel dust tubes prevent dust build-up and protect the optical lens from being coated.

"K-Tek's laser measurement technology is designed specifically for the difficult and unpredictable conditions found in most industrial environments", said Ivo Radanov, Product Manager for Lasers and Ultrasonics at K-Tek Corp.

"Dust, vibration, and constantly changing levels with great reposing angles are a challenge for most noncontact measurement technologies, such as ultrasonic and open air radar, due to their inherent 'beam spread' nature (9s to 24s)".

"The LM200 combines accurate, long distance laser measurements with no beam divergence (less than 0.2s)".

"Therefore, in many applications, the laser goes beyond the point where other technologies stop".

"The advanced dust penetration software allows the unit to adapt to a variety of tough environmental conditions".

"It's robustness and accuracy, as well as the advantages of laser technology, are all rolled into one package".

"Add in the very competitive price and you have a winner in the LM200".

The LM200 features an all-digital design that provides speed and accuracy in a compact unit.

The system architecture allows the software to perform distance measurements quickly, then dedicate more time for sophisticated signal processing, data analysis and distance display.

Last pulse detection means the LM200 can select true signals from among the many that are reflected from dust clouds, agitator blades, or other obstacles.

Colour compensation corrects for weak or excessive return signals.

Variable gain allows the LM200 to select the best return signal in quickly changing visibility conditions, such as dust, vapours, and materials of different colours.

Such capabilities are especially useful for underground mines and smelters where high dust levels and excessive vibration can render other noncontact technologies inoperable.

The LM200 transmitter takes measurements using a laser with an extremely small wavelength of around 1um.

As a result, the unit has virtually no angle divergence, even over long distances.

It can be narrowly focused, ensuring that it does not pick up interference from surrounding objects.

The system can also measure oblique angles with pinpoint accuracy.

This allows it to operate within complex vessels, even if they contain internal structures.

The LM200 is also immune to reflections and echoes, thus providing consistent performance on solids and total immunity to "cone up" and "cone down" variations in the material being measured.

The LM200 is a stand-alone unit that requires no calibration or special configuration.

This ensures users are quickly up and running.

The unit is easily programmed with a Palm handheld device or a desktop/laptop personal computer.

Convenient, portable mounting options allow users to position the laser in any direction.

K-Tek uses Class 1 lasers, making the LM200 products safe for the human eye.

No special safety glasses are required.

K-Tek's LM200 laser level transmitters are available for immediate shipment.

Prices start at $2600.

Delivery is one week from receipt of order.