Greater transparency, enhanced process safety and faster response times in silo monitoring:
Local status visualisation with the NivoLED® signal light provides clear indication of switching states directly on site
Large quantities of wood shavings and wood chips are generated during wood processing operations. In many facilities, these residual materials are used for energy generation and converted into heat and electricity.
At a major European manufacturer of wood-based materials, the resulting wood residues are utilised in an on-site biomass power plant. Before being used for energy generation, the materials are temporarily stored in several silos.
Improved Visibility Directly at the Silo
Level monitoring is managed centrally via a control system. Around 300 measurement points are integrated into the plant visualisation system. For point level detection in the silos, UWT Rotonivo® RN 6003 and RN 6004 have been in operation for many years.
Due to the proximity of the biomass power plant and the resulting radiant heat, elevated process temperatures are also present within the silo installations. At the same time, operating conditions must be recognised quickly to enable efficient service activities and prevent unplanned downtime.
Although a central process visualisation system was already in place, there was a need for an additional local status indication directly at each silo. The objective was to identify switching states immediately on site without first having to access the control system.
Proven Point Level Detection with Rotonivo®
Rotonivo® rotary paddle switches have been used for point level detection for many years. Designed specifically for demanding bulk solids applications, the sensors are suitable for full, demand and empty level detection in storage and process vessels.
The can be configured for process temperatures up to +250 °C (+482 °F) and process pressures up to 10 bar (145 psi). The is suitable for even more demanding applications with process temperatures up to +600 °C (+1,112 °F). Both devices feature robust housings for use in hazardous areas and are SIL2 certified.
Large terminal compartments simplify wiring and facilitate the retrofit of additional components such as the NivoLED® signal light.
Robust RN 6 rotary paddle switch for demanding bulk solids applications with SIL2 certification and suitability for hazardous areas
Simple Retrofit with Significant Impact
To improve visibility directly at the silos, a pilot installation was carried out on one silo equipped with existing Rotonivo® point level switches by adding the
The signal light visualises the current switching state directly at the measuring point. Thanks to its 360° visibility and high-intensity dual-colour LED indication in red and green, switching states remain clearly visible even from greater distances or under poor visibility conditions.
The benefits of the local status indication became apparent during the test phase. Defined limit levels could be identified more quickly, while maintenance and service activities were carried out more efficiently. This helped shorten response times and reduce potential downtime during operation.
Following the successful trial, the solution was expanded to additional measuring points. In total, 18 additional NivoLED® signal lights were installed throughout the facility.
Learn more about the NivoLED® signal light:
protection and versatility in hazardous areas: safe. visible. smart.
Switching states of the NivoLED® NL 9000 remain clearly visible even from greater distances thanks to its 360° visibility and high luminous intensity
Faster Response, Reduced Downtime
Local status visualisation offers several advantages, particularly in large industrial facilities:
- Improved visibility directly at the silos
- Faster recognition of switching states
- Simplified maintenance and service activities
- Reduced response times in the event of process deviations
- Enhanced process safety during operation
The local status indication helps optimise workflows while reducing unnecessary travel distances and delays.
Designed for Hazardous Areas – Such as Those Found in Wood Processing
The NivoLED® was specifically developed for industrial applications in demanding environments. Thanks to its robust design and ATEX and IECEx approvals, the solution is particularly suitable for hazardous and dust-intensive environments commonly found in wood processing facilities.
The signal light can be integrated directly on sensors, control cabinets or process equipment and is ideally suited for the retrofit of existing installations.
Learn more about safety "ATEX approvals and explosion protection"
NivoLED® status indication for easy integration into existing sensors and plant components
Small Retrofit, Big Benefit
This application demonstrates how even small enhancements to existing measuring points can make a valuable contribution to process safety. Direct visualisation of switching states simplifies maintenance and service activities, improves plant transparency and helps operators react more quickly to critical situations.
Especially in large industrial facilities with a high number of measurement points, local status indication can make a significant difference.
