Laser detects level and position of dry bulk solids.
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Press Release Summary:
LaserTrak 80 measures solid surfaces at any angle with no beam divergence or false echoes. Non-contact laser transmitter measures level at distances to 100 ft and measures position at distances up to 500 ft. It employs all-digital design with timing system and self-correcting signal processing functions. Able to select true signal in presence of dust, system includes signal processing software, automatic color compensation, and last pulse detection.Original Press Release:
ASI Instruments Announces LaserTrak 80 Laser Level & Positioning Transmitter, Measures Dry Bulk Solids Over Extended Distances
New laser device measures any solid surface at any angle with narrow beam, no beam divergence, and no false echoes
Houston, TX (March 28, 2005)- ASI Instruments, a leading manufacturer of state-of-the-art level instrumentation for detection and measurement of dry bulk solids, today announced the LaserTrak 80 laser transmitter for non-contact level measurement and positioning. Designed for a variety of bulk solids applications, the LaserTrak 80 measures position over very long ranges, at distances up to 500 feet (150 meters). The device also accurately measures level at distances up to 100 feet (30 meters). Whether handling plastics, grain, or aggregates, the LaserTrak 80 can measure any surface at any angle. The small wavelength of the laser means a narrower beam with virtually no beam divergence and, therefore, no false echoes. This provides high accuracy readings even when dealing with the most challenging circumstances, such as measuring into silo cones, inside silo chutes, and through narrow openings in protective grids.
The LaserTrak 80 features an all-digital design that provides speed and accuracy in a compact unit. An advanced timing system and self-correcting signal processing functions allow the device to accurately and reliably make measurements in the harshest conditions. The system can select the true signal even in the presence of dust, as is commonly found in silos of coal, plastics, or grain, as well as in underground mines or quarries.
"The LaserTrak 80 combines a number of advanced technologies into a single, unique, low-cost measurement device, going far beyond where other measurement technologies leave off" said Ivo Radanov, Product Manager for Lasers and Ultrasonics at ASI Instruments. "The laser provides unheard of flexibility and accuracy when compared with traditional level devices. Virtually any surface can be measured at any angle with pinpoint accuracy. No beam angle divergence means the transmitter can be narrowly focused over long distances without interference from its surroundings, such as internal structures. No false echoes and no reflections mean complete immunity to 'cone up,' 'cone down,' and angle of repose variations in the material being measured."
Color Compensation & Last Pulse Detection
The advanced signal processing software in the LaserTrak 80 automatically compensates for color differences in the materials being measured. The device is able to easily distinguish between dark color surfaces such as coal, and light color surfaces such as plastic pellets and grains. The unit can also measure the position of moving targets over long distances, such as overhead cranes and tripper cars. Thus, one unit can handle both long distance positioning and level measurement applications at one-third the price of competitive models.
The LaserTrak 80 includes last pulse detection, which selects true signals from among the many that are reflected from dust clouds, agitator blades, or other obstacles. Variable gain allows the device to select the best return signal in quickly changing visibility conditions, such as dust, vapors, and materials of different colors. A built-in filtering system allows the unit to handle rapid level tracking applications, such as rock crushers or aggregate process hoppers, as well as slow moving levels, such as inventory silos.
The laser transmitter is housed in a powder coated aluminum enclosure rated for IP65. Dual internal compartments isolate the optical components from the wiring terminations, eliminating the possibility of moisture build-up and errant readings. Stainless steel dust tubes with built-in purge port prevent dust build-up and protect the optical lens from being coated.
The LaserTrak 80 is a compact, stand-alone unit that is quick to set up and install. It requires no calibration or special configuration. The unit is easily programmed with a compact handheld device. An optional laser pointer provides precise alignment. Portable mounting options allow users to position the laser in any direction. No safety glasses are required as ASI Instruments uses Class 1 lasers, making the LaserTrak 80 products safe for the human eye.
Pricing & Delivery
ASI Instruments' LaserTrak 80 laser level transmitters are available for immediate shipment. Prices start at $1900. Delivery is one week from receipt of order.
About ASI Instruments
ASI Instruments, Inc. (Houston, Texas, USA) specializes in manufacturing a broad range of high reliability level instruments for dry bulk solids measurement. Founded in 1978, the company has a reputation for taking on the toughest level applications, including coal, rock crushing, and carbon black. ASI manufactures a complete line of rotary paddle switches, vibrating fork switches, plumb bobs, RF capacitance switches & transmitters, ultrasonic transmitters, laser transmitters, and guided wave radar devices. Used in over 50,000 installations throughout North America and South America, ASI's products can be found in such applications as grain processing and milling, plastics manufacturing, aggregates, building materials, and food production. ASI Instruments is a division of K-TEK LLC which is located in Prairieville, Louisiana, USA. For more information, please visit www.asiinstruments.com.
For further information, contact:
Kevin Hambrice, Director of Marketing
ASI Instruments, Inc.
8570 Katy Freeway, Suite 117
Houston TX 77024 USA
800.245.7056, +1 225.673.6100, Fax: +1 713.461.7348
Email: khambrice@asiinstruments.com
Web: www.asiinstruments.com
© 2005 ASI Instruments, Inc. All rights reserved. ASI Instruments and LaserTrak are trademarks of ASI Instruments. Other product and service names mentioned here are trademarks of their respective owners.
