Monday, May 7, 2007
Testing times for food traceability legislation
According to Stevens Weighing Group, the implications of the new food safety and traceability regulations are being severely tested as the latest Sudan1 food scare unfolds
Related stories
Clean weighing solution for Cereal Partners
Stevens Weighing Group have installed an innovative weighing scale and weight controller for leading UK cereal manufacturer Cereal Partners World-Wide at their plant in Bromborough
Weighing and traceability system brings benefits
A prestigious eleven station Vantage weighing and traceability system is bringing important benefits to British Premium Meats (BPM) at their new purpose built factory in Welwyn Garden City
According to Blackburn based Stevens Weighing Group, the implications of the new food safety and traceability regulations, which came into force in January 2005, are being severely tested as the latest Sudan1 food scare unfolds. Sudan1 is an imported red dye more commonly found in floor and shoe polishes.
It has been banned from food products in the EU since 2003 because of its potential risk to health.
It now turns out chilli powder from India, contaminated with the dye, has inadvertently found its way into batches of Worcester Sauce manufactured and distributed by Premier Foods.
The sauce is used as an ingredient in a wide range of other food products and therefore more than 400 products, including many on sale at Britain's biggest supermarkets, have been withdrawn from sale since Friday 18th February.
The UK Food Standards Agency has announced that as more investigations are conducted into how the dye was distributed through the food chain, many more products could have to be withdrawn.
The Worcester Sauce has been used by hundreds of other companies and it is not difficult to imagine how complex the investigation is.
Further reading
Off line average weight system ensures quality
Vantage off-line average weight and quality management systems supplied by Stevens Weighing are playing a critical role in ensuring product weight and quality control for Universal Products in Preston
A pedigree in food weighing and process control
Stevens Weighing Group are introducing two new members of their renowned Vantage range of products aimed at applications in the food industry
Recipe systems 'deliver' for Domino Pizzas
Recipe formulation systems installed by the Stevens Weighing are ensuring Domino Pizzas, the leading UK pizza delivery company, exceed their customer expectations for taste, consistency and delivery
Successful traceability in Golden Wonderland
A comprehensive factory data collection and traceability system installed by the Stevens Group at Golden Wonder in Corby and Scunthorpe is getting a face-lift after a decade of sterling service
Clearly rapid access to vital traceability data is essential to ensure the matter is resolved as quickly as possible to restore consumer confidence.
Stevens, who are a major supplier of recipe formulation and traceability systems, understand how difficult it can be to trace ingredients within the food chain.
For many food manufacturers, the variety and diversity of their products dictate that recipes are made up by manually adding the ingredients.
Therefore keeping track of the individual amounts of each ingredient used, whilst also ensuring all the correct ingredients are added can be a daunting task.
Traditionally companies have used paper based systems to record recipe and batch information.
These are not only cumbersome but also prone to human error.
Retrieving relevant data on demand is a major task which can take days to achieve.
To overcome this Stevens have developed comprehensive weighing and traceability systems which can track ingredients throughout the manufacturing process from Goods-in to Goods-out.
Their recipe formulation modules have been specifically developed to provide a complete recipe management, stock control and traceability system, virtually eliminating onerous paper based systems.
Stevens Sales Manager Stuart Hunt is clear about the merits of the system: 'Whilst companies using outdated paper work systems will be struggling to provide the data, those operating our electronic systems would be able to provide relevant data in a matter of seconds.
Our units are far more than just weighing scales and offer the ultimate in flexibility, ease-of-use and reliability for a wide range of recipe formulation applications.
They can be used as standalone self-contained modules or networked as part of a fully integrated system allowing optimum use of the weight data.
The fully sealed and waterproof operator console can withstand regular wash-down routines making the system ideally suited to the working environments found in modern food manufacturing establishments'.
The system generates a range of powerful reports which can be customised to meet specific requirements.
These give a detailed and instant overview of the operation at any given time and can include data relating to individual ingredient usage, recipe consistency, stock control and production yield.
Note that the Worcester Sauce is manufactured and distributed by Premier Foods and is not in any way linked to Lea and Perrins Worcestershire Sauce.08
Related stories
Clean weighing solution for Cereal Partners
Stevens Weighing Group have installed an innovative weighing scale and weight controller for leading UK cereal manufacturer Cereal Partners World-Wide at their plant in Bromborough
Weighing and traceability system brings benefits
A prestigious eleven station Vantage weighing and traceability system is bringing important benefits to British Premium Meats (BPM) at their new purpose built factory in Welwyn Garden City
According to Blackburn based Stevens Weighing Group, the implications of the new food safety and traceability regulations, which came into force in January 2005, are being severely tested as the latest Sudan1 food scare unfolds. Sudan1 is an imported red dye more commonly found in floor and shoe polishes.
It has been banned from food products in the EU since 2003 because of its potential risk to health.
It now turns out chilli powder from India, contaminated with the dye, has inadvertently found its way into batches of Worcester Sauce manufactured and distributed by Premier Foods.
The sauce is used as an ingredient in a wide range of other food products and therefore more than 400 products, including many on sale at Britain's biggest supermarkets, have been withdrawn from sale since Friday 18th February.
The UK Food Standards Agency has announced that as more investigations are conducted into how the dye was distributed through the food chain, many more products could have to be withdrawn.
The Worcester Sauce has been used by hundreds of other companies and it is not difficult to imagine how complex the investigation is.
Further reading
Off line average weight system ensures quality
Vantage off-line average weight and quality management systems supplied by Stevens Weighing are playing a critical role in ensuring product weight and quality control for Universal Products in Preston
A pedigree in food weighing and process control
Stevens Weighing Group are introducing two new members of their renowned Vantage range of products aimed at applications in the food industry
Recipe systems 'deliver' for Domino Pizzas
Recipe formulation systems installed by the Stevens Weighing are ensuring Domino Pizzas, the leading UK pizza delivery company, exceed their customer expectations for taste, consistency and delivery
Successful traceability in Golden Wonderland
A comprehensive factory data collection and traceability system installed by the Stevens Group at Golden Wonder in Corby and Scunthorpe is getting a face-lift after a decade of sterling service
Clearly rapid access to vital traceability data is essential to ensure the matter is resolved as quickly as possible to restore consumer confidence.
Stevens, who are a major supplier of recipe formulation and traceability systems, understand how difficult it can be to trace ingredients within the food chain.
For many food manufacturers, the variety and diversity of their products dictate that recipes are made up by manually adding the ingredients.
Therefore keeping track of the individual amounts of each ingredient used, whilst also ensuring all the correct ingredients are added can be a daunting task.
Traditionally companies have used paper based systems to record recipe and batch information.
These are not only cumbersome but also prone to human error.
Retrieving relevant data on demand is a major task which can take days to achieve.
To overcome this Stevens have developed comprehensive weighing and traceability systems which can track ingredients throughout the manufacturing process from Goods-in to Goods-out.
Their recipe formulation modules have been specifically developed to provide a complete recipe management, stock control and traceability system, virtually eliminating onerous paper based systems.
Stevens Sales Manager Stuart Hunt is clear about the merits of the system: 'Whilst companies using outdated paper work systems will be struggling to provide the data, those operating our electronic systems would be able to provide relevant data in a matter of seconds.
Our units are far more than just weighing scales and offer the ultimate in flexibility, ease-of-use and reliability for a wide range of recipe formulation applications.
They can be used as standalone self-contained modules or networked as part of a fully integrated system allowing optimum use of the weight data.
The fully sealed and waterproof operator console can withstand regular wash-down routines making the system ideally suited to the working environments found in modern food manufacturing establishments'.
The system generates a range of powerful reports which can be customised to meet specific requirements.
These give a detailed and instant overview of the operation at any given time and can include data relating to individual ingredient usage, recipe consistency, stock control and production yield.
Note that the Worcester Sauce is manufactured and distributed by Premier Foods and is not in any way linked to Lea and Perrins Worcestershire Sauce.08
A new range of affordably priced load cells
Sensor specialists RDP Electronics have announced the introduction of a new range of affordably priced load cells, offering linearities of 0.03% with overall accuracies of 0.1%
Related stories
Sub miniature gas and fluid pressure sensors
At just 18 mm in length and only 7.9 mm diameter the Model S sub miniature pressure sensor is ideally suited for gas or fluid measurement and control, in situations where a small device is essential
See RDP at Midlands Manufacturing in Coventry
Total capability in position sensors will be exhibited by RDP at the Midlands Manufacturing Exhibition at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry from 18-19 April 2007
Sensor specialists RDP Electronics have announced the introduction of a new range of affordably priced load cells. Offering linearities of 0.03% with overall accuracies of 0.1%, the new load cells are designed to meet the demands of todays competitive market place for cost conscious measurement applications, while still achieving high quality performance.
Fred Thorneycroft, RDP Sales Manager, predicting that prices will amaze engineers and purchasing managers explained, 'with the new load cells our customers are now able to buy for example, a 2500kg (5000lb) Universal load cell with a linearity of 0.03%, for as little as GBP260, with large discounts on quantity orders.' The new RDP range includes the widely used 'pancake' style of cell for compression, tension and universal operation, in addition to models specifically designed for industrial and commercial weighing applications'.
' A large selection of standard models and ranges are stocked and special requirements can usually be supplied within 6 to 8 weeks'.
Fred Thorneycroft concluded: 'Anyone who uses load cells and looking to cut costs, should call the RDP Sales Department to request full specifications for this new product, or alternatively visit the RDP web site
Related stories
Sub miniature gas and fluid pressure sensors
At just 18 mm in length and only 7.9 mm diameter the Model S sub miniature pressure sensor is ideally suited for gas or fluid measurement and control, in situations where a small device is essential
See RDP at Midlands Manufacturing in Coventry
Total capability in position sensors will be exhibited by RDP at the Midlands Manufacturing Exhibition at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry from 18-19 April 2007
Sensor specialists RDP Electronics have announced the introduction of a new range of affordably priced load cells. Offering linearities of 0.03% with overall accuracies of 0.1%, the new load cells are designed to meet the demands of todays competitive market place for cost conscious measurement applications, while still achieving high quality performance.
Fred Thorneycroft, RDP Sales Manager, predicting that prices will amaze engineers and purchasing managers explained, 'with the new load cells our customers are now able to buy for example, a 2500kg (5000lb) Universal load cell with a linearity of 0.03%, for as little as GBP260, with large discounts on quantity orders.' The new RDP range includes the widely used 'pancake' style of cell for compression, tension and universal operation, in addition to models specifically designed for industrial and commercial weighing applications'.
' A large selection of standard models and ranges are stocked and special requirements can usually be supplied within 6 to 8 weeks'.
Fred Thorneycroft concluded: 'Anyone who uses load cells and looking to cut costs, should call the RDP Sales Department to request full specifications for this new product, or alternatively visit the RDP web site
Strain gauges help create the worlds smartest iron
Cambridge Consultants have applied strain gauge sensors to detect the motion of an iron, to provide precise millisecond control of steam supplies: a new iron is being launched by Laurastar
Related stories
Domestic micro-CHP market heats up
Cambridge Consultants has been appointed to provide engineering and technical expertise in the development of a new mass-market micro-CHP (Combined Heat and Power) system for domestic use
'System on chip' (SoC) technology service
A Cambridge Consultants service allows enterprises without specialist electronics skills to exploit the benefits of 'system on chip' (SoC) technology: industrial control instruments will benefit
Laurastar, the worlds leading innovator in ironing systems, has today launched a range of intuitive products using technology developed by Cambridge Consultants. Flagship products, the Magic i-S5 and Steamup i-G5, incorporate a number of world firsts including automatic steam and an automatic blower system built into the ironing board.
The result is products which deliver a professional, long-lasting finish whilst reducing ironing times by up to 50%.
Steam is used in irons to penetrate fibres and knock out creases in fabric.
However, damp fabrics are just as likely to crease again so the fabric needs to be set by a further application of dry heat.
The Laurastar new automatic steam function works by delivering twice heated steam automatically, at a pressure of 3.5 bar, the instant the iron detects forward motion.
However, the steam shuts off as soon as the iron stops moving or is used in a reverse motion.
Further reading
SP Connect links Sade SP weight sorters to a PC
CI Electronics has introduced SP Connect, a new software package for use with their Sade SP range of tablet and capsule weight sorters
Register for the 'Average Weight Control Seminar'
If being clued up on Average Weight Control is your responsibility, you cannot afford to miss the Average Weight Seminar 2007 - the only seminar of its kind in the UK, hosted by industry experts
CI support for research microbalance applications
A CI microbalance is playing a crucial role in a new research apparatus for sample controlled thermal analysis of materials, measuring sample mass to 0.1ug, in a furnace also from CI Electronics
Remote access to in line check weighers!
Two new software packages from Sartorius join their well known Average Weight Control software, offering remote control and information gathering from in line check weighers!
This smart steam feature removes creases and sets the fabric in a single ergonomic action.
The inclusion of a ventilation system built into the ironing board allows the iron to ride across fabrics on a wave of air which further helps prevent creasing and eliminate steam marks.
The direction of the blower can be reversed so that clothes, such as trousers, can be held to the board to achieve a more precise crease.
In developing the new technology within the iron, Cambridge Consultants considered a range of sensing technologies.
It quickly rejected the obvious options such as optics and accelerometers as they were unable to deliver the real-time performance required.
Instead Cambridge Consultants settled on a sensing arrangement based on two half-bridge strain gauges built into the handle of the iron.
When coupled with a purpose designed control system, the iron is able to rapidly detect movement, starting or shutting off steam production within a millisecond.
To the user, there is no apparent time delay between moving the iron and the steam turning on or off.
The real-time control system gives the iron a sense of intelligence to know exactly how it is about to be used and to safely deliver steam at the appropriate moment.
One of the design challenges for Cambridge Consultants was how to install the new technology without impacting the product styling and ergonomic feel that is so critical to the Laurastar leading position in the ironing market.
A key concern was the impact that additional cabling for transmitting control information between the iron and the steam generation unit might have.
Cambridge Consultants provided an elegant answer to this challenge by developing a low cost circuit that transmits the necessary control data on the existing power supply cable using a special data modulation technique.
This approach allowed Laurastar to continue using its well-proven 'mono-tube' cable, which is optimised for ideal ironing.
Jan Beekman, Laurastar Chief Operating Officer commented, 'These technological innovations reconfirm our position as leaders in ironing technology.
We are now well positioned to see growth and increased revenue as these breakthrough products stimulate existing markets and open up new markets for the company.' Eric Wilkinson, Cambridge Consultants director responsible for the project added, 'This project shows how the use of advanced electronics can open up markets across a range of consumer goods.
In just under a year, we have worked with Laurastar to set the new industry standard for ironing.
I believe we have created a product that leaves you wondering why all irons don't work this way.' The new range of ironing systems, which will be launched in April, will retail for between GBP199 and GBP699.
Related stories
Domestic micro-CHP market heats up
Cambridge Consultants has been appointed to provide engineering and technical expertise in the development of a new mass-market micro-CHP (Combined Heat and Power) system for domestic use
'System on chip' (SoC) technology service
A Cambridge Consultants service allows enterprises without specialist electronics skills to exploit the benefits of 'system on chip' (SoC) technology: industrial control instruments will benefit
Laurastar, the worlds leading innovator in ironing systems, has today launched a range of intuitive products using technology developed by Cambridge Consultants. Flagship products, the Magic i-S5 and Steamup i-G5, incorporate a number of world firsts including automatic steam and an automatic blower system built into the ironing board.
The result is products which deliver a professional, long-lasting finish whilst reducing ironing times by up to 50%.
Steam is used in irons to penetrate fibres and knock out creases in fabric.
However, damp fabrics are just as likely to crease again so the fabric needs to be set by a further application of dry heat.
The Laurastar new automatic steam function works by delivering twice heated steam automatically, at a pressure of 3.5 bar, the instant the iron detects forward motion.
However, the steam shuts off as soon as the iron stops moving or is used in a reverse motion.
Further reading
SP Connect links Sade SP weight sorters to a PC
CI Electronics has introduced SP Connect, a new software package for use with their Sade SP range of tablet and capsule weight sorters
Register for the 'Average Weight Control Seminar'
If being clued up on Average Weight Control is your responsibility, you cannot afford to miss the Average Weight Seminar 2007 - the only seminar of its kind in the UK, hosted by industry experts
CI support for research microbalance applications
A CI microbalance is playing a crucial role in a new research apparatus for sample controlled thermal analysis of materials, measuring sample mass to 0.1ug, in a furnace also from CI Electronics
Remote access to in line check weighers!
Two new software packages from Sartorius join their well known Average Weight Control software, offering remote control and information gathering from in line check weighers!
This smart steam feature removes creases and sets the fabric in a single ergonomic action.
The inclusion of a ventilation system built into the ironing board allows the iron to ride across fabrics on a wave of air which further helps prevent creasing and eliminate steam marks.
The direction of the blower can be reversed so that clothes, such as trousers, can be held to the board to achieve a more precise crease.
In developing the new technology within the iron, Cambridge Consultants considered a range of sensing technologies.
It quickly rejected the obvious options such as optics and accelerometers as they were unable to deliver the real-time performance required.
Instead Cambridge Consultants settled on a sensing arrangement based on two half-bridge strain gauges built into the handle of the iron.
When coupled with a purpose designed control system, the iron is able to rapidly detect movement, starting or shutting off steam production within a millisecond.
To the user, there is no apparent time delay between moving the iron and the steam turning on or off.
The real-time control system gives the iron a sense of intelligence to know exactly how it is about to be used and to safely deliver steam at the appropriate moment.
One of the design challenges for Cambridge Consultants was how to install the new technology without impacting the product styling and ergonomic feel that is so critical to the Laurastar leading position in the ironing market.
A key concern was the impact that additional cabling for transmitting control information between the iron and the steam generation unit might have.
Cambridge Consultants provided an elegant answer to this challenge by developing a low cost circuit that transmits the necessary control data on the existing power supply cable using a special data modulation technique.
This approach allowed Laurastar to continue using its well-proven 'mono-tube' cable, which is optimised for ideal ironing.
Jan Beekman, Laurastar Chief Operating Officer commented, 'These technological innovations reconfirm our position as leaders in ironing technology.
We are now well positioned to see growth and increased revenue as these breakthrough products stimulate existing markets and open up new markets for the company.' Eric Wilkinson, Cambridge Consultants director responsible for the project added, 'This project shows how the use of advanced electronics can open up markets across a range of consumer goods.
In just under a year, we have worked with Laurastar to set the new industry standard for ironing.
I believe we have created a product that leaves you wondering why all irons don't work this way.' The new range of ironing systems, which will be launched in April, will retail for between GBP199 and GBP699.
The power of intelligence for process control
Avery Weigh-Tronix has invested $2 million in the development of Evolution, to bring the most advanced digital indicator technology to the dynamic world of process control
Related stories
Reducing vine tomato product give-away
John Baarda, the UK's largest tomato growing facility, has reduced its product giveaway for on the vine tomato packs after installing a checkweighing installation designed by Avery Weigh-Tronix
New weighbridge management software
Avery Weigh-Tronix has upgraded Weighman, its leading weighbridge management package, to offer increased reliability and improved performance
Modern industrial environments need production data to be instantly visible, totally reliable and to be shared across networks in order to improve productivity and gain maximum process efficiency. Evolution makes it easier for processors to receive and transfer information critical to business performance, via 'E-enabled' features including web browsers, file download options and bi-directional communications.
A unique design is combined with the latest technology, including connectivity to any industrial network, local or remote configuration, simple installation and ease of use.
Avery Weigh-Tronix is renowned for the breadth of its product range, a factor which enables users to specify a suitable model for their application.
The Evolution range was designed to make it easier for customers to select their ideal indicator, without bespoke costs, as it comprises fewer models each with increased levels of functionality.
Further reading
Weigh price labeller systems for fresh food
Avery Weigh-Tronix has launched two new weigh price labeller systems for the UK and Irish pre-packed fresh food industry, offering an economical solution with the capabilities of expensive systems
ATEX compliant weighbridge for hazardous areas
Avery Weigh-Tronix has launched an ATEX compliant weighbridge for use in hazardous areas: a retrofit service is also available for existing Avery Weigh-Tronix weighbridges to meet new regulations
Models range from entry-level units for simple process control to multi-function weight transmitters supporting a wide range of standard interfaces.
This enables easy integration into existing networks, saves valuable time and expense on costly system upgrades and can support future process changes as they arise.
The indicators are designed to display, analyse, store and transmit weight-based data from factory processes in real-time.
This information can be interrogated by internal systems and used to make significant improvements to profitability and efficiency.
An electronic archiving application can store data relating to up to 72,000 weighings securely and transfer the information to a PC for recall or manipulation at any time.
A range of standard applications is provided, at no additional cost, saving on equipment expenditure.
This includes routines for counting, static and in-motion weighing, batching and recipe control, pack runs and weighbridge operations.
In addition, the indicators' trip outputs and inputs can be tailored to manage a wide range of process control and formulation requirements specific to the application.
Evolution indicators can control the process directly from the factory floor, via a touch-key keypad and a clear operator display, or remotely as part of a wider system.
They can also be set to operate automatically, for remote or unmanned applications, freeing up operators for other duties to maximise efficiency.
PC-based service tools allow indicators to be configured, upgraded and maintained with remote fault diagnosis and email status alerts.
Rechargeable battery options are available for portability and an innovative three-way bracket is included on most models, enabling pole, wall or desk mounting, with no additional costs.
Related stories
Reducing vine tomato product give-away
John Baarda, the UK's largest tomato growing facility, has reduced its product giveaway for on the vine tomato packs after installing a checkweighing installation designed by Avery Weigh-Tronix
New weighbridge management software
Avery Weigh-Tronix has upgraded Weighman, its leading weighbridge management package, to offer increased reliability and improved performance
Modern industrial environments need production data to be instantly visible, totally reliable and to be shared across networks in order to improve productivity and gain maximum process efficiency. Evolution makes it easier for processors to receive and transfer information critical to business performance, via 'E-enabled' features including web browsers, file download options and bi-directional communications.
A unique design is combined with the latest technology, including connectivity to any industrial network, local or remote configuration, simple installation and ease of use.
Avery Weigh-Tronix is renowned for the breadth of its product range, a factor which enables users to specify a suitable model for their application.
The Evolution range was designed to make it easier for customers to select their ideal indicator, without bespoke costs, as it comprises fewer models each with increased levels of functionality.
Further reading
Weigh price labeller systems for fresh food
Avery Weigh-Tronix has launched two new weigh price labeller systems for the UK and Irish pre-packed fresh food industry, offering an economical solution with the capabilities of expensive systems
ATEX compliant weighbridge for hazardous areas
Avery Weigh-Tronix has launched an ATEX compliant weighbridge for use in hazardous areas: a retrofit service is also available for existing Avery Weigh-Tronix weighbridges to meet new regulations
Models range from entry-level units for simple process control to multi-function weight transmitters supporting a wide range of standard interfaces.
This enables easy integration into existing networks, saves valuable time and expense on costly system upgrades and can support future process changes as they arise.
The indicators are designed to display, analyse, store and transmit weight-based data from factory processes in real-time.
This information can be interrogated by internal systems and used to make significant improvements to profitability and efficiency.
An electronic archiving application can store data relating to up to 72,000 weighings securely and transfer the information to a PC for recall or manipulation at any time.
A range of standard applications is provided, at no additional cost, saving on equipment expenditure.
This includes routines for counting, static and in-motion weighing, batching and recipe control, pack runs and weighbridge operations.
In addition, the indicators' trip outputs and inputs can be tailored to manage a wide range of process control and formulation requirements specific to the application.
Evolution indicators can control the process directly from the factory floor, via a touch-key keypad and a clear operator display, or remotely as part of a wider system.
They can also be set to operate automatically, for remote or unmanned applications, freeing up operators for other duties to maximise efficiency.
PC-based service tools allow indicators to be configured, upgraded and maintained with remote fault diagnosis and email status alerts.
Rechargeable battery options are available for portability and an innovative three-way bracket is included on most models, enabling pole, wall or desk mounting, with no additional costs.
Digital bridge amplifier for load cell measurement
The SY036 digital bridge amplifier is the ideal tool for load cell measurement applications where a digital load cell signal is required from your current loadcells
Related stories
Digital amplifiers from Synectic Design
Synectic Design is renowned for the high quality and excellent value instrumentation amplifiers produced, but now many process control systems require the digital input available from the latest units
Synectic Design solenoid valves!
Synectic Design are known as specialists in process control electronics, providing standard and specially designed flow and weighing controllers: now our packages can even include solenoid valves
The SY036 is suitable for industrial or research applications and is extremely user-friendly. The SY036 is now available with a new option of a USB connection, allowing extremely easy connection to a computer, with simple set-up. It can also be connected to a SY033 display unit to show the load cell signal.
The display can be scaled initially from a computer.
The key feature of the SY036 is that it is a cased self contained unit which can be placed inline with a computer cable.
Unlike then SY016 digital amplifier, the SY036 is suited for research and development work where the unit will be positioned near a computer or load cell - providing a packaging benefit to the customer.
Further reading
Data logger module for use with batch controllers
The SY010 Data Logger has been designed to be used with Synectic Design batch and flow controllers, to simplify the downloading of data to a PC
Synectic Design Solutions Waste Management System
Synectic Design are industry leaders in weighing batch control systems, and have produced a bespoke system design for Cepac in Rotherham to analyse and monitor cardboard packaging waste
The SY036 will provide excitation for up to four 350R bridges.
It measures both strain and temperature, working in both tension and compression due to its fully differential input.
The device's built-in microcomputer calculates a temperature compensated 16 bit value directly proportional to the load.
Between the SY016 and the SY036, Synectic Design can cater for all requirements for digital amplification of load cell outputs.
The SY036 has previous been used in a number of chemical blending applications to convert load cell signals to digital for feedback control of hoppers, our main customer in this area is OMEX Agriculture.
The SY036 has also been used by Kingspan Access Floors to test the load on chipboard flooring.
The load cell signal is sent through a SY036 to a DAQ unit, which also reads a value from a digital vernier to produce load against displacement graph from testing.
The SY036 has a maximum reading speed of 40Hz; simple ASCII command set language and safe storage of calibration parameters in non-volatile EEPROM, demonstration software is provided written in Quick Basic.
The unit requires a supply voltage of 7 to 30Vdc and provides 5V bridge excitation.
The output signal is digital or 4-20mA from either analogue or digital loadcells; this allows load cell users to update their systems without the excessive cost of buying digital loadcells.
Options available for the SY036 include USB, RS232 or RS485 data transfer, and data logging.
The logging option logs the load cell reading on trigger and can store up to 16,000 readings.
Synectic Design has been designing and manufacturing industrial process control and measurement instrumentation and systems since 1993 and are considered as leaders in the process electronics industry.
Related stories
Digital amplifiers from Synectic Design
Synectic Design is renowned for the high quality and excellent value instrumentation amplifiers produced, but now many process control systems require the digital input available from the latest units
Synectic Design solenoid valves!
Synectic Design are known as specialists in process control electronics, providing standard and specially designed flow and weighing controllers: now our packages can even include solenoid valves
The SY036 is suitable for industrial or research applications and is extremely user-friendly. The SY036 is now available with a new option of a USB connection, allowing extremely easy connection to a computer, with simple set-up. It can also be connected to a SY033 display unit to show the load cell signal.
The display can be scaled initially from a computer.
The key feature of the SY036 is that it is a cased self contained unit which can be placed inline with a computer cable.
Unlike then SY016 digital amplifier, the SY036 is suited for research and development work where the unit will be positioned near a computer or load cell - providing a packaging benefit to the customer.
Further reading
Data logger module for use with batch controllers
The SY010 Data Logger has been designed to be used with Synectic Design batch and flow controllers, to simplify the downloading of data to a PC
Synectic Design Solutions Waste Management System
Synectic Design are industry leaders in weighing batch control systems, and have produced a bespoke system design for Cepac in Rotherham to analyse and monitor cardboard packaging waste
The SY036 will provide excitation for up to four 350R bridges.
It measures both strain and temperature, working in both tension and compression due to its fully differential input.
The device's built-in microcomputer calculates a temperature compensated 16 bit value directly proportional to the load.
Between the SY016 and the SY036, Synectic Design can cater for all requirements for digital amplification of load cell outputs.
The SY036 has previous been used in a number of chemical blending applications to convert load cell signals to digital for feedback control of hoppers, our main customer in this area is OMEX Agriculture.
The SY036 has also been used by Kingspan Access Floors to test the load on chipboard flooring.
The load cell signal is sent through a SY036 to a DAQ unit, which also reads a value from a digital vernier to produce load against displacement graph from testing.
The SY036 has a maximum reading speed of 40Hz; simple ASCII command set language and safe storage of calibration parameters in non-volatile EEPROM, demonstration software is provided written in Quick Basic.
The unit requires a supply voltage of 7 to 30Vdc and provides 5V bridge excitation.
The output signal is digital or 4-20mA from either analogue or digital loadcells; this allows load cell users to update their systems without the excessive cost of buying digital loadcells.
Options available for the SY036 include USB, RS232 or RS485 data transfer, and data logging.
The logging option logs the load cell reading on trigger and can store up to 16,000 readings.
Synectic Design has been designing and manufacturing industrial process control and measurement instrumentation and systems since 1993 and are considered as leaders in the process electronics industry.
Sunday, May 6, 2007
Its all in a name, even when it is a .com
Weighing-systems.com is offering a new service to help companies in the weighing and force measurement industries improve their market presence: special web site domain names are a major sales benefit
Related stories
Useful weighing systems website
The Technology Centre at weighing-systems.com features a wide range of technical information relating to many aspects of weighing, load cells, level control and related topics
Weighing-systems.com website info centre
Specialist web site helps engineers and purchasing personnel find suppliers of process weighing equipment, scales, systems, load cells and components, plus approvals selection routes and fitting data
Weighing-systems.com is offering a new service to help companies in the weighing and force measurement industries improve their market presence. Whilst most companies use their own name as the basis for their web site domain, there is growing evidence that using a name relating to what they actually do or a specific product range can be beneficial.
Related stories
Useful weighing systems website
The Technology Centre at weighing-systems.com features a wide range of technical information relating to many aspects of weighing, load cells, level control and related topics
Weighing-systems.com website info centre
Specialist web site helps engineers and purchasing personnel find suppliers of process weighing equipment, scales, systems, load cells and components, plus approvals selection routes and fitting data
Weighing-systems.com is offering a new service to help companies in the weighing and force measurement industries improve their market presence. Whilst most companies use their own name as the basis for their web site domain, there is growing evidence that using a name relating to what they actually do or a specific product range can be beneficial.
Mettler Toledo Garvens S series enhanced
The S series dynamic checkweighers from Mettler Toledo have advanced features to meet ever increasing industrial demands
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Is your conductivity sensor accurate?
Are you meeting USP requirements for sensor recalibration? Your conductivity sensor is vital to the performance of your pure water system, and Mettler Toledo Thornton can help
Pukka Pies monitored with X-Ray systems
The Mettler Toledo product inspection division has provided Pukka Pies with three high performance X-ray systems, for the very highest levels of contaminant detection
The S series dynamic checkweighers have advanced features to meet industry's ever increasing demands. Ideally suited for use in the food, chemical, cosmetic and packaging industries, the range is one of the most versatile on the market. Operation is now faster and easier thanks to the new, large colour display.
The colour display offers numerous benefits including: Improved touchscreen sensitivity; Easy-to-read display even in dimly lit areas; Enlarged graphical display; Easy to clean display (meets hygienic demands)
Related stories
Is your conductivity sensor accurate?
Are you meeting USP requirements for sensor recalibration? Your conductivity sensor is vital to the performance of your pure water system, and Mettler Toledo Thornton can help
Pukka Pies monitored with X-Ray systems
The Mettler Toledo product inspection division has provided Pukka Pies with three high performance X-ray systems, for the very highest levels of contaminant detection
The S series dynamic checkweighers have advanced features to meet industry's ever increasing demands. Ideally suited for use in the food, chemical, cosmetic and packaging industries, the range is one of the most versatile on the market. Operation is now faster and easier thanks to the new, large colour display.
The colour display offers numerous benefits including: Improved touchscreen sensitivity; Easy-to-read display even in dimly lit areas; Enlarged graphical display; Easy to clean display (meets hygienic demands)
