NDC Infrared Engineering Ltd, has
announced the launch of the CM710e range of Ethernet-enabled on-line
gauges for moisture measurement in industrial manufacturing
processes, such as chemicals, minerals and ore-extraction, ceramics,
detergents and construction products. Critical control of moisture
content can be used to control product quality, improve productivity,
save fossil fuel consumption and optimize drying processes. The 4th
Generation CM710e combines the proven light engine from the CM710
with new, high-speed digital processing technology and Ethernet and
other digital communication protocol connectivity. This combination
produces the high accuracy, robust real-time measurements essential
for use in closed-loop control, yet offers extraordinary flexibility
and simplicity of installation and operation.
By providing highly accurate process measurements that can help avoid
costly production downtime and utilising industry-standard Ethernet
communication hardware such as cables, repeaters and routers, the
modular CM710e system offers low installation costs, low cost of
ownership and a fast return on investment.
Key components of the CM710e Gauging system are the Gauge itself,
Operator Workstation (OWS) and the Human Machine Interface (HMI),
offering flexibility of configuration for a wide variety of system
structures. The OWS enables local interaction with an individual
gauge, while the HMI provides supervisory access to up to 16 Series
710e gauges within the same network. Both units feature high
definition multi-lingual colour toouchscreen displays. A Hub
featuring advanced switching technology, enables multi-gauge
configurations and facilitates network connectivity. Digital inputs
and outputs and scaleable analogue outputs are available to provide
additional connectivity anywhere in the network.
With Ethernet communication as standard and the option to extend to
Ethernet IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP, Profibus DP or DeviceNet, together
with Automatic Device Discovery capability, the system can be readily
integrated into existing factory networks and management information
systems. Complex power supply configurations are avoided since all
CM710e components run on 24V DC either from an on-site supply or
power over Ethernet (POE).
At the heart of the CM710e Gauge is NDC's patented near infrared
light engine. Using high precision optical components manufactured in-
house by NDC' Optics Division, the pre-calibrated system is capable
of using up to 16 different wavelengths. Designed to give reliable, repeatable measurements of the highest accuracy, the robust optics ensure that the gauge rejects any interferences from external
contributions from the process which could affect the measured values.
These include contributions from ambient light, relative humidity,
particle size, colour variations and temperature, as well as
variations in product height as it passes under the gauge. The new
high-speed light sampling and digital signal processing incorporated
into the gauge means low background noise giving high quality clean
signals for process control.