Skip to main content

Non-contact sensing from SICK

A novel non-contact radar sensing technology from SICK offers accurate and reliable real-time monitoring of bulk solid levels for the storage and handling of mineral products
October 4, 2021 Read time: 2 mins
Accurate silo measurement technology is now offered by SICK

The SICK SicWave uses high-frequency 80 GHz free-space radar to overcome the limitations of low-frequency radar sensors or mechanical devices to achieve precision continuous level measurement.

The microwave pulses of the SICK SicWave sensors are claimed to penetrate through dust and material build-up to output accurate results. The SICK LBR SicWave is a bulk solids level sensor with a range of up to 120m. This can be used for continuous level measurement in production of products such as cement, concrete and gypsum for crushers and belt transfer, as well as for silos for storing products.

The firm claims that this technology can be used to manage the supply of bulk solids in storage vessels. It offers accurate level measurement using non-contact technology and is not disrupted by the presence of dust or build-up of residue, or by other obstructions in the vessel.

Positioned at the top of a silo, or over a heap or bunker, the SICK SicWave sensor sends a narrow beam of microwave radar pulses and uses the time-of-flight principle to return a high-quality signal even at long ranges or extreme temperatures and pressures. The SICK SicWave 80 GHz free-space radar sensors are a thousand times more sensitive than previous generation 26 GHz radar technologies ensuring high availability in challenging environments with minimal maintenance. The narrow field of view avoids the potential for false signals caused by deposits on walls or by obstructions inside the vessel.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Concrete on demand with Ammann
    June 20, 2022
    Swiss firm Bereuter is now able to supply fresh concrete on demand in both large and small volumes with the installation of Ammann CBT 60 Elba Plant equipped for contact-free dispensing.
  • GPS guidance delivers accurate machine control
    July 12, 2012
    GPS systems for machine control can make massive reductions in operating costs for contractors. Using GPS systems for machine control can make massive reductions in operating costs for contractors and the pace of technology improvements from manufacturers has been rapid. This market segment is dominated by Leica Geosystems, Trimble and Topcon, all of which introduced an array of new products earlier this year. Topcon's dozer control system first seen in public at the Intermat show in Paris, offers notable c
  • Topcon’s action station
    October 31, 2012
    Topcon Europe Positioning (TEP) has launched a new, professional-grade robotic total station – the PS series – which the firm says is designed to surpass the power, accuracy and capabilities of its peers. The PS is said to utilise Topcon’s new PowerTrac technology to increase the prism tracking power. “Using new optics, laser system and advanced algorithms, PowerTrac provides the PS with the ability to keep tracking a moving prism even under the toughest environmental conditions,” said Leighton Davies, surv
  • Asphalt plant innovations from key firms
    June 12, 2017
    Asphalt plant builders continue to develop new technologies to meet different demands from clients. Marini says that in addition to developing new and more sophisticated asphalt plants, the firm is also meeting demands from customers looking to upgrade existing asphalt plants with the addition of new systems. These can be used to boost output and material quality, while also delivering new grades of mixes. At the same time, plant upgrades can reduce the environmental profile of a plant, while improving its