These radar systems are now widely used to improve metal level control in FOMET's automatic pouring furnaces. FOMET has already installed many radar systems of this type in Italy, in Europe and all over the world; FOMET radar systems have also been installed in FOMET automatic pouring furnaces of Renault, Tupy and Brembo.
Radar replaces laser measurement, it still remains the electrode for rare radar backup and for safety.
After the first trial tests and the subsequent field tests in the most loyal foundries in 2021, FOMET installed and integrated the first radar in an existing FOMET casting furnace in November 2021.
In 2022, FOMET installed and integrated 5 radar systems, 1 in the first quarter, 1 in the second quarter, 1 in the third quarter and 2 in the last quarter of 2022.
In 2023 and 2024, more original radar systems from FOMET were installed and integrated in FOMET casting systems for their most loyal customers.
This article was born out of FOMET's need to communicate to its customers that the radar system itself is not an exclusive FOMET product, however, that it must be parameterized and integrated into the control logic of the pouring system for optimal use.
It is therefore not advisable to purchase a system without FOMET full integration.
Like any other type of equipment, it requires complete integration to perform its function at its best.
The FOMET radar sensors are used for non-contact metal level measurement. These sensors can measure with absolute reliability, even in the presence of insulating blanket, slag, dust and noise, without being affected by deposits or condensation.
Measuring principle
The measuring instrument transmits short microwave signals via the antenna system in the direction of the medium. The iron surface reflects the signal waves, which are then received back by the antenna system. The time from transmission to reception of the signals is proportional to the level in the pouring syphon
A special time stretching procedure ensures reliable and precise measurement of the extremely short transmission periods and the conversion into level.
The radar sensors operate with low emitted power in the C and K band frequency range.
Advantages
Non-contact radar technology is characterized by a particularly high measurement accuracy. The measurement is not affected by changing the iron properties or by changing process conditions such as temperature, pressure or intense dust generation. The user-friendly adjustment without filling and emptying the channel saves time and the sensors are maintenance-free.
The radar system is protected by a housing that is cooled by a vortex air system and it is mounted on a special bracket that is placed above the pouring channel.
System composed by:
- Radar Sensor for the continuous iron level measurement (A)
- Antenna extension (B)
-
Cone antenna (C)
