Sensor portfolio offers more process visibility

23 February 2020

With its new compact series of VEGABAR pressure sensors and VEGAPOINT level switches, the level and pressure specialist VEGA, has advanced its capability to become a full-range supplier for level and pressure controls in process automation.

Thee lower-priced instruments are aimed at standard automation applications – designed to meet the latest requirements in industry and offering some new features for better productivity.

A focus on hygiene

Just like other sectors, the food industry does not seek extreme solutions, it continually looks for optimisation and efficiency improvements, and often simple turns out to be best. VEGA has, therefore, expanded its product range to include a compact instrument series which proves that automation can be both simple and highly efficient without sacrificing innovation, dependability, hygiene or accuracy.

Standard applications of the food and beverage sectors in particular, can be automated very economically with these new compact pressure sensors and level switches. Integration into the process, as well as adjustment, are especially easy to carry out. In this sensor class, multiple process connection options are also available, which also supports the continuous improvement of production facilities. The focus here is on compact design, flexibility, safety and optimised hygiene.

Bluetooth speeds things up

The new instrument series can be easily set up and managed with a smartphone or tablet. Especially in environments such as cleanrooms – where physical access involves a lot of effort – the remote communication means that device adjustment and operation becomes considerably faster, easier and safer. In combination with the award-winning VEGA Tools app, this means the sensor configuration and maintenance in these areas becomes extremely convenient and time saving.

Standardisation gives birth to efficiency

Process connections: a uniform standard for all areas of application. This applies especially to the fully hygienic adapter system, which is designed to be compatible with both the new VEGABAR pressure sensors and VEGAPOINT capacitive level switches, as well as the existing range of VEGASWING vibrating level switches. They can be flexibly selected according to individual process connections and quickly interchanged between different technologies. Signal cable connections and weld sockets are also standardised too.

Hygienic design

All the instruments are built to withstand intense CIP processes. All the stainless-steel surfaces of the sensors that come into contact with the product feature optimal surface finish values. All the materials of these new devices are approved and tested according to FDA and EC 1935/2004, and confirmed by independent laboratories and institutes.

The design of the instruments has been certified according to the European EHEDG Directive and the North American 3-A Sanitary Standards. The components were also designed in accordance with GMP regulations (Good Manufacturing Practices) so that all microorganisms are reliably removed by cleaning and cannot multiply on surfaces or in gaps.

Easily visible sensor status

Sensors can be mounted either in large, open areas or in very confined spaces. It is crucial to be able to see sensor readings quickly and easily, so that operators can react as quickly as possible, especially in the event of a fault. The development of the new VEGABAR and VEGAPOINT sensors focused on simplicity of use and a fast and easy status reading that comes along with it. With an all-round, super bright 360° display, switching states can be easily seen from any direction. The colour of the illuminated ring can be custom selected from 256 different colours, it is bright enough to remain clearly visible, even in broad daylight and is able to immediately show the user if measurement is taking place, if the sensor is switching, or if there is a possible maintenance requirement.

Fit for the future with IO-Link

The option of having all sensor parameters written automatically into the new instrument by the IO-Link master, or the controller during a replacement, provides additional efficiency. Fast process or recipe changes are typical in the food industry today and they can be carried out quickly and centrally with this system. The bottom line is that IO-Link saves time while reducing the potential for set up errors to virtually zero. This ensures higher product quality, more optimal utilization of machines and increased process speed - in other words, noticeable savings.

Conclusion

Hygienic design, system availability, modularisation and networking are the decisive factors for greater efficiency in food processes and for standing out in the face of growing competition. With its decades of experience, VEGA offers ground-breaking level and pressure measurement technology for the automation and monitoring of future-oriented production systems. Sensors that are optimised for operating under extreme conditions as well as meeting strict requirements on system safety and flexibility.