Batch weight controller boasts high intelligence

The SY017 multi-recipe batch weight controller is an extremely intelligent batch weight controller, which can store up to 99 recipes with up to 16 separate ingredients.

The SY017 multi-recipe batch weight controller is an extremely intelligent batch weight controller, which can store up to 99 recipes with up to 16 separate ingredients.

As with all Synectic Design products, the SY017 is sophisticated yet simple to operate.

The SY017 uses an 18bit ADC, specifically designed to read load cell signals, making it much more accurate than standard PLC ADC systems which are generally successive-approximation types with poor noise rejection; the unit has a response of 16Hz.

The controller can accept inputs coming from either load cells or flow meters (or both); a remote stop/start button can also be connected.

The unit has a total of 17 output (6A/270V) relays - 16 can be used for ingredient control and the 17th can be used to discharge a hopper or start a mixer etc after a preset amount of time.

An example of this timing feature is for chemical processes were for example a wait or mixing is required, or steam added etc for a set period of time.

Each ingredient is controlled by a relay, with automatic in-flight compensation.

The operation of each relay in indicated via LEDs on the front panel.

The controller's memory can store up to 99 recipes, with a name for each ingredient.

Each relay can control the feed of an ingredient, or the relays can be operated in pairs switching on a pump and valve for up to 8 ingredients.

Companies already using the SY017 include Kingspan Group, the largest building components manufacturer in the world, where the SY017s are used for chemical blending to produce polymer building systems.

Kingspan has had uninterrupted production since 1996 using Synectic batch blending systems; the units are used to dispense some chemicals in extremely small quantities, demonstrating the SY017's precision control abilities.

Another company that uses SY017s is Centura Foods, the maker of Bisto, Paxo and most supermarket own-brand stock cubes.

The SY017s at Centura Foods use the unit's self-computing batching facility, where it runs without the need for any manual input during a batching run (it doesn't even need to be told when hoppers have been refilled, or how much has been added).

The unit can also allow for a situation where one or more of the components of the mix runs out (mid-batch), therefore eliminating any material wastage.

In a two-ingredient recipe it can compute the ratio and complete a mix.

The unit uses a full numeric keypad for data entry or if an RS232 link is fitted, it can be remotely controlled from a computer.

With RS232 it can be programmed from a PC or personal organiser.

As the SY017 has a manual control front panel, the unit can be controlled even if the remote computer is not operational.

The controller can also be built into a network via an RS485 connection.

Further expansion is available by connecting the unit to an SY019 multiple I/O unit.

Options available with the SY017 include: a reduced system measuring flow only, or a full system offering the measurement of flow and weight; an RS232 serial interface for connection to a PC, personal organiser or printer; an RS485 interface for networking capabilities; and an internal data logger.

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