Baumer claims the FlexTop 2231 is fully configurable via Simatic PDM software and is used to convert the signal output of temperature sensors into a higher level digital signal that can be sent back to the supervising control system that runs the entire plant.
The company said that the device can be utilized by the food, beverage and dairy sectors and is ideally suited to controlling liquid temperatures.
Plants need accurate measures for determining the amount of liquids that are in cooking vats or holding tanks during processing. Monitoring levels of substances is important not only for filling, but also for mixing ingredients.
Measurement of stocks and supplies also allows food processors to control order levels, preventing shortages and surpluses.
Control language
Steve Husband, Product Market Manager, Process Instrumentation, told FoodProductionDaily.com that the 2231 is an enhancement of the company’s existing transmitters in that it employs the Profibus communication protocol.
He said the transmitter was developed to meet the growing demand from industry, particularly food and drink producers, for this control language.
“Profibus is the fastest growing communication protocol allowing users to get more information and flexibility from their sensors, easier installation, reduced cable requirements, reduced connection problems plus greater internet communication possibilities,” said Husband.
He said the FlexTop 2231 comes with galvanic isolation between input and output, which ensures safe isolation between the process end of the control loop and costly control computers.
“If damaging electrical power enters the sensor, it can not pass back up to the control computer,” explained Husband.
Housing
He said that the transmitters are placed inside a temperature sensor housing that complies with European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group (EHEDG), and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements.
A six mm center hole allows fast sensor replacement, according to Husband, while spring loaded mounting screws ensure a safe fastening even in vibrating environments.
He conceded that Profibus transmitters are always more expensive than the older communication models: “Compared to other manufacturers of this Profibus temperature transmitter our prices are highly competitive with stock delivery times.”
Husband said that the FlexTop 2231 transmitters are available globally.