Scaletron Industries, Ltd. (USA) - Scaletron Industries, Ltd., a manufacturer of corrosion resistant digital and mechanical scales, has introduced the Model 1020-B™ batch process controller for use in the industrial and chemical process industries. The controller automates batch-out processing eliminating the need for an operator to visually monitor dosing and dispensing processes. For filling or emptying containers placed on the scale, the new controller provides accurate readings to 5-digits and enables integration with other up- or downstream processes.

Recommended for use with Scaletron drum, tank, platform and stainless steel platform scale bases, the Model 1020-B controller features simple operation using a six-button panel with indicator lights. Guided by intuitive prompts, the operator enters the preset fill/dispense values. Pressing the dispense button starts the process which may be paused at any time without loss of parameter settings. Color-coded LED lights indicate status. When the preset amount is reached, a relay is activated which may then be used to turn on/off various valves and other devices depending on amperage requirements.

“The controller was developed in response to customer demand,” said Edward Dougherty, president of Scaletron Industries, LTD. “Usually the task of filling or emptying containers is somewhat tedious, requiring checking and re-checking the volume or weight of containers on the scale. That wastes time that could be better spent on more productive tasks.” Dougherty explained that the new controller fully automates accurate filling/dispensing processes while at the same time enabling personnel to devote time to other priorities.

The Model 1020-B offers three usage modes for batching systems. The single mode uses only the fast fill amount, indicated by a green LED light, and will dispense the precise amount of material specified in the preset. When the dispensing is completed, the green LED indicator light turns off and a red LED turns on to alert the operator that the process is done. When the preset amount is reached, the relay may be deployed to operate devices such as solenoid valves. Whenever possible, care should be taken to minimize electronic noise in the area where the controller is used.

The dual mode starts with fast fill then automatically switches to a second feed for controlling a valve with a slower dispense rate thereby enabling more a precise fill speed. When switching to slow fill a yellow LED light tells the operator that controlled dispensing has begun.

The parallel mode utilizes both fast and slow fill methods to provide the speediest dispensing/filling. At completion of the batching process, the relay actuates and a red LED indicates process completed.

Based on user needs, the unit is preprogrammed at the factory to dispense precise amounts. Once installed the Model 1020-B is easily reprogrammed in the field to better meet individual application requirements. The new controller monitors a single channel using a loop powered, programmable output of 4-20mA. Overall system accuracy is 0.1% to 0.25% full scale capacity. The controller should be located in a place that protects it from exposure to extreme weather.

Electronics are housed in a NEMA 4X, UL-approved enclosure. The controller plugs into a wall power source and operates on 120/240 VAC at 50/60 Hz. The 5-Digit LCD Controller displays a two-line, backlit, alphanumeric digital display. The indicator can be configured to read in tenths, whole units or tens. Display options are pounds, kilograms, grams, gallons, liters or milliliters.