VEGAPULS 64 measures levels reliably in fruit and vegetable processing

To meet the high quality requirements of customers, Mr. Thielmann makes it a habit to double-check all the raw materials and their subsequent processing. The company works closely with farmers in the region, who represent the first link in their supply chain. The varieties of fruit and vegetables delivered are carefully examined and analysed, because only fresh, uncontaminated produce can become an end product of the highest quality. A refrigerated warehouse with more than 12,000 pallet spaces ensures that the production facilities are fully utilized, even during low-harvest months.

 

The production methods must be continuously adapted to the different fruit and vegetable varieties, as well as brought up to date with new technologies. For example, carrots require a completely different type of processing than blueberries. They use state-of-the-art technologies and computer-controlled production processes to ensure the gentle handling of the valuable fruit and vegetable products, of whatever kind.

The newest radar sensor, VEGAPULS 64, is used in the carrot processing facility. First they are steamed so that they can be peeled more easily. The head pressure is controlled here with a VEGABAR pressure transmitter. The carrots are then mashed via a screw conveyor with a mill and heated in a trough cooker. A VEGAPULS 64 was installed at the end of this unit. It warns against overfilling, controls the input and feed speed, and monitors the emptying process. The measurement situation with pressure transmitters was very unsatisfactory until now, but this was not due to the measuring instrument but the installation conditions," explains Thielmann.

Radar sensors are also used on the four 500,000-litre silos that hold carrot and apple juice concentrate. After 15 years of reliable operation, these VEGA sensors were due to be replaced. In these silos, the sensors monitor the inventory and warn against overfilling and dry running. When it comes to level measurement, every millimetre counts in tanks of this size, and new technologies of course offer advantages here. Since the existing process fittings could be used, the sensors were simply mounted on them. Here, too, setup and commissioning went without a hitch and four VEGAPULS 64 sensors now measure the level, with greater reliability and precision than ever before.

Although the two applications are very different, they clearly demonstrate the universal talent of VEGAPULS 64 for food and beverage applications, whether in small containers (troughs) or in large silos (storage vessels), in extremely hot, steamy environments or in tanks with many internals.