CONTACT: Leonard B. Antosiak - Pharmaceutical Production TechSource® - P.O. Box 1145 -
Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1145 - (Telephone: 734.528.0444) - (eMail: ppt@2020comm.net) - (WEB PAGE: http://PharmaceuticalProductionTechSource.com)

PROCESS CONTROL - Technology, Compression Force Monitors, Weighing Applications, and More!

PROCESS CONTROL Technology:
Compression Force Monitors, LDT/Shut-Height, Weighing Applications, and Much More...
(Control your processing and packaging operations! Ideal technical applications for the pharmaceutical, nutritional supplement, beverage, food, and affiliated industries!)

The following technology is addressed on this page: - Compression Force Monitoring Instrumentation (Load Monitoring) Technology for Tablet Presses - Load Monitor and Instrumentation Tablet Press Case Histories - Adjustable "Machine Height" Movement and Monitoring LDT/Shut-Height Technology and Components for Packaging Lines, Equipment, etc. - Adjustable "Machine Height" Movement and Monitoring Case History for a Krones Labeler - Strain Gage Input Weight Modules and Load CellsFor Precision Weighing Applications - Weigh Modules and Load Cell Case Histories - Strain Gage Input Modules and Monitoirng - Weigh Modules and Load Cell CASE HISTORIES - Strain Gage Input Modules and Monitoring - Resolver Input Modules - Transducers and Load Cells - Press Controls and Factory Automation - Signature Analysis and Machine Dowtime Reporting

TechSource® represents a "Rockwell Automation Encompass Global Partner" that enables us to provide you with reasonably priced technology for your factory, manufacturing processes, and packaging operations. These technologies will improve your facilities efficiencies, protect your equipment, and ensure that you are in control of your process(es). Reduce the ware-and-tare on your machines, improve your product quality, and save money by ensuring that your process is in control! Be in control of your operation(s) by having the ability to measure your process(es) at all times!

Compression Force Monitors and Instrumentation
(Load Monitoring) Technology for Tablet Presses:

Ensure that your process is in control and your machinery is operating at maximum efficiency. Variations of the monitors can be built for any tablet press model, and are built to accomodate your specific needs. These machines have proven strain gage sensor technology, provide accurate compression force readings, shear pin configuration, replaces the existing yoke pin for the lower compression roll, has a 15 ton capacity rating (other sizes available), are precision machined, have a heat-treated stainless steel cell body and are constructed for a long manufacturing life. Compression force monitors protect your machine, its tooling, helps to control your tablet weight, density, tablet height, and assists with the detection of tablet forming and ejection forces.

  • Load Monitor Standard Features: this unit contains two channels of continuous strain gage main compression roll peak force monitoring, and is expandable to additional channels for part ejection and pre-compression roll monitoring. Some of the additional features include:
    • Proven PTM module strain gage signal conditioning
    • 12" color touch screen panel PC with Ethernet for optional remote monitoring
    • Display and monitoring of calibrated peak compression roll forces for each tablet (2 stations)
    • Machine RPM and PPM display with parts counter
    • Adjustable high/low alarms for both channels with alarm relay
    • Seperate proximity switch timing input for each channel per staggered roll timing
    • Job recipe storage for up to 250 jobs
    • On-line SPC data collection
    • Tablet weight and tablet height feedback adjustment outputs (0 to 10VDC)
    • Housed in rugged steel NEMA enclosure with keylock door
  • Alarm Features: this unit has a good part trend sampling routine to enable you to arrive at an average learned force benchmark for each channel:
    • Adjustable high and low tolerance alarms for each channel based on good part benchmarks for tool protection and tablet quality
    • Adjustable discreet high and low capacity alarms on each channel for machine protection
    • Dry contact latching alarm relay output activated by any alarmed condition
  • Data Acquisition Features: this unit provides online SPC data collection and displays peak tonnage values for each station:
    • Capable of storing up to 40,000 points per station for individual, average, median range and moving range, and standard deviation
    • Automatic storage capability of the last 200 load signatures
    • Ability to overlay and display multiple signatures
    • Automatic storage of the last 1,000 alarm conditions with the date and time stamp
    • Downtime reporting with programmable downtime event for each condition
  • Machine Adjust Output Features: these auto adjusts help to ensure the manufacture of a good quality tablet:
    • 0 to 10VDC analog feedback output signal for two seperate tablet weight cam adjustments, these are force based to help maintain the proper compression roll force
    • 0 to 10VDC analog output is a recipe based signal for two separate compression roll tablet height adjustments
    • Tablet weight cam and compression roll adjustment actuators are to be furnished by the customer
  • Operator Screens: these are manufactured to be user friendly and utilize color and touch screen technology:
    • Graphical presentation allows you to view the forming forces as they are occuring
    • Quality standards are ensured by the viewing of the colored charts and histograms on the monitors
  • Portability Features: listed as an option to help reduce cost:
    • Consists of a carrying handle on the top, rubber feet on the bottom
    • Allows for easily moving the monitor from press to press if desired
    • Plug-in wiring connections for all electrical items including plug-in connectors for the load cell, proximity switch (timing input), and alarm relay (machine stop output)
    • Cables and power cords, a 30' long alarm relay plug-in cable is included to run from the monitor to the machine control, along with a 15' plug-in power cord
    • Please Note: the portability unit allows for it to be moved from press to press, if desired; however, in that mode, it's assumed that each press will have its own dedicated and permanentlty mounted load cell and proximity switch for timing

    Load Monitor and Instrumentation
    Tablet Press CASE HISTORIES...

  • Stokes B2 (16 station single-sided):
  • 2-channel compression force monitor including instrumentation, load cells for monitoring the individual compression roll forces and the ejection cam forces. The load cells are calibrated strain gage, and the compression roll load cell is a "shear pin" that will replace the existing lower compression roll pin. The ejection cam load cell is a "compression column"/"bending beam" type cell, and is a modified strain gaged version of the ejection cam. The instrumentation is based on PTM-1 signal conditioning, housed in a NEMA 4x stainless steel enclosure. The front panel has a 12" color touch screen panel PC display. The unit monitors and displays the peak tablet compression roll forces, and the ejection cam forces. Adjustable high and low alarms are included to allow for a machine shutdown in the event of an off-tolerance condition. Internal force data, and signature storage are included. In addition, for the compression roll station, a 0 to 10 VDC analog output signal is provided to allow for tablet weight cam adjustments (force based). Also, a 0 to 10 VCD analog output signal is provided for tablet height adjustments (job based). The cells are calibrated to N.I.S.T. standards. This system did not include a "validation" package.
  • Stokes DD2 (double-sided):
  • this press was used to make dextrose and sorbitol tablets, and hard candy tablets. The DD2 has multiple stations in the turret, and 2 main compression roll stations. The monitor has 4 channels, 2 channels will be used for the compression roll forces, and 2 channels will be used for the ejection cam forces. The maximum press speed is approximately 850tpm per side. That allows for standard hardware without "high-speed" modifications to be used in the monitor. The compression roll load cells are the calibrated strain gage "shear pin" type. The cell will replace the existing "yoke pins" for the lower compression rolls. The ejection force load cells were modified, and strain gaged versions were utilized for the machine ejection cams. The instrumentation was based on the standard "peak force" and "area under the curve" monitoring features. It will monitor and display the peak tablet compression forces and ejection forces for both compression rolls. Ajustable high and low alarms are included, to allow for machine shutdown in the event of an off-tolerance condition. The load cells are calibrated, and traceable to the United States National Institute of Standards and Technology (N.I.S.T). This system did not include and formal pharmaceutical "validation" package.
  • Manesty Beta (16 station single-sided):
  • 3-channel compression force monitor including instrumentation for use in monitoring the individual station pre-compression roll, main compression roll, and ejection forces. The machine capacity rating is 5 tons, with 1/2 ton being its normal running toannage for making tablets. The maximum turret speed is approximately 60rpm. The maximum tablets per minute is approximately 960tpm. The load cells (force sensors) are existing on the machine, and are calibrated strain gaged (strain gages embeded in the roll shafts and in the ejection cam plate). Existing sensors are wired and in full "Wheatstone" bridge arrangement, as well as proximity sensors and target for instrument timing signals. The instrumentation was based on a PTM-1 signal conditioning, housed in a NEMA 4x stainless steel enclosure. The front panel of the press has an existing 12" color touch screen panel PC display. The monitor displays the peak tablet pre-compression, main compression, and ejection forces. Adjustable high and low alarms are included to allow for machine shutdown in the event of an off-tolerance condition. Internal force data and signature storage are included. For both roll stations a 0 to 10 VDC analog output signal is provided to allow for tablet weight cam adjustments (force based), and a 0 to 10 VDC analog output signal is provided for tablet height adjustment (job based). Weight cam adjustment and tablet height adjustment motorized actuators were not included. This system did not include a "validation" package.
  • Manesty UniPress (27 station single-sided):
  • 2-channel compression force monitor with optional "portability features", and custom strain gage "shear pin" load cell. They're used to monitor the main compression roll forces on a 27 station Manesty UniPress. The main compression roll tonnage capacity is estimated to be 10 tons. The machine's maximum speed is 2,500tpm. The load cell is a calibrated strian gage "shear pin" type, and will replace the existing "yoke pin" for the lower compression roll. The instrumentation shall be based on proven circuitry, modified for high-speed, and limited "peak force" monitoring operation(s). It will monitor and display the peak tablet compression forces for main compression. Adjustable high and low alarms are included to allow for machine shutdown in the event of an off-tollerance condition. Portability features are an option, and consist of a carrying handle on the top, and "plug-in" wiring connections for all electrical items to allow for easily moving the monitor from press to press if desired. The system's load cell is calibrated and traceable to N.I.S.T. The system does not include a "validation" package.
  • Manesty BB4 (35 station double-sided):
  • 2-channel compression force monitor included instrumentation, and load cells. They were used to monitor the individual station's compression roll forces, and the ejection cam forces. This press was a double-sided, single-layered, or, (single-sided bi-layer) 35 station, 50rpm, approximately 1,750tpm maximum per side, 10 ton main compression force press. The load cells were calibrated strain gaged, with shear pin compression roll load cell(s). They replaced the existing lower compression roll pin(s). The ejection cam load cell(s), optional, are of the "compression column"/"bending beam" type, and were modified strain gaged versions of the ejection cam(s). Instrumentation was based on an Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC platform with ultra high-speed strain gaged input modules. The front panel received a 12" color touch screen panel PC display. All items were factory wired and housed in a NEMA 4x stainless steel enclosure. The unit monitored and displayed the peak tablet compression roll forces, and the ejection cam forces. Adjustable high and low alarms were included to allow for machine shutdown in the event of an off-tolerance condition. Internal force data storage was included. Force signature storage was not included because the system was based on a PLC platform. For the compression roll stations, a ControlLogix digital servo motor output signal(s) was provided to allow for tablet weight cam adjustments (force based). ControlLogix digital servo motor output signals were provided for tablet height adjustments (job based). All load cells were calibrated and traceable to N.I.S.T. standards. This system did not include a "validation" package.
  • Kikusui Libra (36 station single-sided):
  • 2-channel compression force monitor including instrumentation and load cells for use in monitoring the individual station compression roll force, pre-compression roll force, and the ejection cam force. The machine is single sided with one main compression roll station. The press operated at 60rpm maximum (typically using 40rpms). The main compression maximum load rating is 40kN, or, 9,000lbs. The load cells were existing cells and were calibrated strain gaged. The compression and pre-compression roll load cells were "shear pin" type, and were mounted in place of the original roll pins. The ejection cam load cells were "bending beam", and were modified and strain gaged versions of the ejection cams. The instrumentation was based on PTM-1 signal conditioning, housed in a NEMA 4x stainless steel enclosure. The front panel recieved a 12" color touch screen panel PC display. This unit will monitor and display the peak tablet compression roll forces, the peak pre-compression roll forces, and the peak ejection cam forces. Adjustable high and low alarms were included to allow for machine shutdown in the event of an off-tolerance condition. Internal force data and signature storage were included. Also, the compression roll station has a 0 to 10 VDC analog output signal to allow for weight cam adjustments (force based). Also, a 0 to 10 VDC analog output signal was provided for tablet height adjustment (job based). Weight cam adjustment and tablet height adjustment motorized actuators were not included. All load cells were calibrated and traceable to N.I.S.T. standards. This system did not include a "validation" package.
  • Cadmach (61 station single-sided):
  • 2-channel compression force monitor included instrumentation and load cells for use in monitoring the individual station compression roll forces and the ejection cam forces. This machine had main compression and ejection stations, maximum press speed of 60rpm, and was capable of making 3,660tpm. The load cells furnished were calibrated strain gage type, and the compression load cell was a "shear pin" type. They replaced the existing lower compression roll pin. The ejection cam load cell was a "compression column"/"bending beam" type, and was modified to a strain gaged version of the of the ejection cam. The instrumentation was based on an Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC platform with ultra high speed strain gage input modules. Included was a 12" color touch screen panel PC display. All items were factory wired and housed in a NEMA 4x stainless steel enclosure. The unit monitored and displayed the peak tablet compression roll forces and the ejection cam forces. Adjustable high and low alarms were included to allow for machine shutdown in the event of an off-tolerance condition. Internal force data storage was included, but force signature storage was not included because the system was based on a PLC platform. In addition, for the compression roll station, a ControlLogix digital servo motor output signal was provided to allow for tablet weight cam adjustments (force based). Also, a ControlLogix digital servo motor output signal was provided for tablet height adjustment (job based). Weight cam adjustment and tablet height adjustment servo motor actuators were included as an option. All load cells were calibrated and traceable to N.I.S.T. standards. This system did not include a "validation" package.
  • Applications: ideal for tablet presses, or, any operation where force needs to be measured to help ensure that a quality product is being manufactured!


    Adjustable "Machine Height" Movement and Monitoring
    LDT/Shut-Height Technology and Components for Packaging Lines, Equipment, etc...

    Even though this technology is referred to as "machine height", it can be applied to both vertical and horizontal adjustable movements/set-points. Adjustments are based on Allen Bradley (AB) PLC controllers to accurately monitor, and control motor driven machine adjustments. Precision linear transducers are mounted onto the machine, to measure adjustments to within .005" accuracy. The adjustment value is displayed with the ability to store, and recall target settings for multiple jobs. Control output relays interface to the machine adjustment motors, to initiate automatic, and corrected adjustments for the desired job run. Stand-Alone (SA) and Allen-Bradley PLC integrated versions are available in both 4 and 8 channel packages. This technology can provide both vertical and horizontal adjustments, it's a very robust application!

  • Specifications for Installation: these units are simple to install and operate, and provide great time savings over manual methods when a job changeover is required for different products or sizes:
    • Transducer input voltage: 7 - 30 VDC
    • Transducer currrent: 40 ma @ 24 VDC
    • Transducer output: analog, 0 - 10 VDC
    • Measurement repeatablility: ±.001"
    • Measurement accuracy: ±.005"
    • Temperature range: 32° to 140° F
  • "Stand Alone" Adjustable Machine Height Monitor Technology: this unit contains proven and reliable Allen Bradley PLC based electronics. It can have either 4 or 8 channels of machine height monitoring and related circuitry, with the ability to accept 0 to 10 VDC analog input signals from 1 to 4, or, 1 to 8 linear displacement transducers (LDT's). It displays the actual machine adjustment set-points, and can store them for multiple jobs. When a new job is entered, it provides the proper up/down, or, left/right machine adjustment output signals. The system's measurement accuracy and display resolution is within .005" (note: actual machine adjustment accuracy is dependent upon the condition of the height adjust drive and machine's condition). An integral compact color touch screen display (4" diagonal) contains the following functions:
    • Entering setup and calibration values for the linear displacement transducers
    • Show the actual "machine adjustments" for all connected transducers
    • Enter and display the proper LDT machine adjustment values for particular jobs based upon the assigned "job numbers"
    • Contains up/down "pushbotton" function on display to manually adjust machine set-points
    • Store, recall and activate up to 100 different "job based" machine adjustments for the connected transducers (note: each LDT will have its own unique job machine set-points)
    • 120 VAC control voltage up/down outputs to provide the proper control signals to the machine height motorized actuators (note: when a new job is entered and activated, the actuators will atuomatically adjust the machine set-points as needed)
    • Ability to disable the unused channels
    • Password protection to limit machine adjustments only to authorized personnel
    • Unit configured for 120 VAC external power
    • All items factory wired and housed in gasketed sealed NEMA 4x stainless steel enclosure for "washdown" protection and corrosion resistance
    • Machine height motorized actuators are not furnished
    • Unit options include a "remote job activation" freature to remotely activate a new job with the proper settings from a "panel view" operator interface at the main machine control
  • "PLC Integrated" Adjustable Machine Height Monitor Technology: this unit can interface to existing Allen Bradley PLC and panel view displays in the main machine control AB Micrologix/Compactlogix, SLC-500 and ControlLogix platforms. It can be utilized with 4 or 8 channels of machine adjustment monitoring and related hardware, with the ability to accept 0 to 10 VDC analog input signals from 1 to 4, or, 1 to 8 linear displacement transducers (LDT's). The actual machine adjustments are displayed from the connected LDT's, and it stores the proper machine heights for multiple jobs. When a new job is entered, the proper up/down, or, left/right machine adjustment output signal is provided. The system's measurement accuracy and display resolution is within .005" (note: actual machine adjustment accuracy is dependent upon the condition of the height adjust drive and machine's condition). Hardware consists of AB PLC analog input modules for installation in the open slots of the existing PLC control rack. Engineering/programming for the existing machine's AB PLC control and panel view display is needed to attain the following functions:
    • Entering setup and calibration values for the linear displacement transducers
    • Shows the actual "machine adjustments" for all connected transducers
    • Enters and displays the proper LDT machine adjustment values for particular jobs based upon the assigned "job numbers"
    • Stores, recalls and activates up to 100 different "job based" machine adjustmentss for the connected transducers (note: each LDT will have its own unique job machine set-point)
    • Ability to provide the proper control signals to the existing machine adjustment motorized actuators with existing contactors (note: when a new job is entered and activated, the actuators will automatically adjust the machine as needed)
    • Ability to disable the unused channels
    • Password protection to limit machine adjustments only to authorized personnel
    • Machine height motorized actuators are not furnished. The customer will need to provide the existing PLC control program, and the panel view display program so the interface programming work can be completed. Confidential nondisclosure agreements can be signed as needed.
  • "Linear Displacement Transducer (LDT)" Machine Height Monitor Technology: the "standard duty" transducer Model H-LDT-SD-XXXX ("XXXX" designates active sensing length in inches, "0120" to 12.0" in length), with sensing lengths from 12.0" to 60.0" in .1" increments. Standard transducer features include the following:
    • Mounting on motorized adjustable machine support legs to provide a calibrated output signal for the machine's height
    • Can be mounted for vertical (height) or horizontal machine adjustment
    • Provides a 0 to 10 VDC analog output signal
    • Rugged construction for industrial applications
    • Stainless steel sensing tube
    • Electronics enclosed in aluminum housing with O-ring seals, with IP67 rating for dust and water protection
    • Hard wired 30' cable with cordgrip fittings at cable exit (note: longer cable lenghts are available upon request)
    • Sensor magnet ring
    • Adjustable steel mounting brackets for sensor unit (stationary machine section) and for magnet ring (moving adjustable machine section)
    • Transducer options include "heavy duty" stainless steel transducer (Model H-LDT-HD-XXXX), with stainless steel sensing tube and stainless steel electronics enclosure with O-ring seals for washdown protection from caustic cleaning agents; included are stainless steel mounting brackets for sensor unit and magnet ring with a long-length cable of over 30'

    Adjustable "Machine Height" Movement and Monitoring
    Case History For a Krones Labeler...

  • Krones Labeler:
    Monitors are based on Allen-Bradley PLC controllers to accurately monitor and control adjustable machine height(s). The sensor specifications include the following: input voltage: 24VDC; current: 400ma @ 24VDC; output: analog 0-10VDC; measurement range: ±4" typ. (specify); measurement repeatability: ±.001"; measurement accuracy: ±.005"; temperature range: 32° to 120°F; protection rating: IP 67. The hardware includes a NEMA 4X stainless steel enclosure for "washdown" protection and corrosion resistance, laser sensor and stainless steel sensing target. This technology helps to ensure agianst underfilling/lites for any bottling, filling or canning operation.
  • Applications: ideal for any packaging line application, or piece of equipment that involves a need for precision horizontal or vertical movement. An ideal application for quick changeover.


    Strain Gage Input Weigh Modules and Load Cells
    For Precision Weighing Applications

    These are factory programmed for the static force measurements found in weighing applications. The dual-channel, single-slot modules also feature a built-in programmable tare function for accurate, no drift operation. No external amplification or junction boxes are required.
    • Platform 1734: HM Model #1734WM
    • Platform 1738: HM Model #1738
    • Platform 1746: HM Model #604WM
    • Platform 1756: HM Model #1756WM
    • Platform 1769: HM Model #1525

  • SPECIFICATIONS:
    • Resolution: 16 bit
    • Internal time conversion: 10 microsecond
    • Module accuracy: 0.01% full scale
    • Strain gage input: 2 - 350ohm, or, 4 - 700ohm


    Weigh Modules and Load Cell
    CASE HISTORIES...

  • Rotary Liquid Filling Machine:
    Includes a 2-channel module with 2 load cell inputs used in conjunction with an Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC control, and individual fill station load cells on a multi-station rotary liquid filling machine. The module prcecisely weighs and controls the flow of liquid product into the individual containers for each station. This is a special version strain gage weigh module used for general purpose weighing. Each station of the filler has its own load cell under the platform that supports the container. The stations with the load cells rotate continuously as the fill process happens, with new empty containers entering the start area of the filler, and full containers exiting the finish area. Due to the rotary motion, the PLC rack is typically mounted at the center of the filler, with all of the load cells wired to the strain gage weigh modules in the PLC rack. The strain gage weigh modules can be used on fillers with only one control valve per fill head, or, with fillers having 2 fill valves per head (coarse fill and fine fill). As the empty container starts the fill process at its station, a fill head with a fill nozzle, and 2 fill control valves (coarse Fill and fine fill) is in position over the rotating container. Comparing the target full-weight to the actual measured product weight in the container. The strain gage weigh module controls the flow rate, and flow duration for each valve at different stages of the process. Those control functions are done by discreet solid state outputs (coarse fill output and fine fill output) for each channel. The "COARSE FILL VALVE" has a high flow rate with a rough control fill function. The "FINE FILL VALVE" has a low flow rate with a precise control fill function. For any given container, the fill process starts initially with fine fill only, changes to fine and coarse fill, and changes back to fine fill only to fine tune the finish weight. A detailed bottle fill weigh, and fill timing sequence is as follows: Bottle on - Bottle detect threshold met - Weight stable - Tare evaluation - Tare set good/bad - PLC tare set acknowledged - Tare - Filling start - Fine fill only - Fine to coarse weight reached - Start coarse fill - Coarse fill (fine and coarse valves open) - Coarse to fine weight reached - Fine fill only - Continue fine fill - End weight stable - Bottle exit
  • Liquid Product Tank Weighing System:
    Includes an Allen-Bradley single point I/O strain gage "weigh module" and "shear beam" type strain gage weigh load cells with supporting weigh modules. They're used to measure the weight of a cylindrically-shaped tank. The tank's dead-weight is 4,000 lbs. and the active liquid product weight is 22,500 lbs. when the tank is filled. The lenght of the tank runs parallel to the floor, and is supported by 4 upright circular steel legs, one leg per corner. The quantities listed relate to those items needed to support one filling machine. The load cells are shear beam stainless steel weigh cells. Each cell is furnished with a 3-directional weigh module. Four load cells were installed at the upright support legs for the tank (each cell in its supporting module). The weigh module for each cell is a mechanical support in which the actual load cell mounts. It has 3-directional mechanical side load protection, lift-up protection, a lower base plate, and an upper weld plate for mounting the upright tumbler leg. The 4 load cells are wired in parallel through a junction box, with one home run cable providing one common weight output signal for monitoring. The monitoring electronics consist of an Allen-Bradley single point I/O strain gage weigh module. It includes 2 channels for the weighing function, but only 1 channel is used for this particular application.
  • Food Weighing System:
    Includes SLC-500 strain gage "weigh" modules and "single point" type strain gage load cells. They were used to weigh/control each assembly operation where ingredients are added for two conveyor-fed pie lines. The quantities listed relate to those items needed for two identical "dual lane" lines (side by side), with 6 stations per lane to receive load cells (4 lanes with 6 stations/lane for a total of 24 total weigh stations). The modules were 2-channel Allen-Bradley SLC-500 high resolution strain gage input "weigh" modules. They were installed in an Allen-Bradley SLC-500 PLC to perform the weighing and control function. The load cells were PC 6-6kg "single point" weigh load cells. They were hermietically sealed with an IP-68 rating, for superior washdown protection. A load cell was installed at each of 6 "weigh stations" for each of the 4 assembly lanes. Modifications were made to the lines in order to create the individual weigh stations, and to incorporate the load cells. Two load cells will be connected to each of the 2-channel strain gage moduels (12 total modules). A custom load cell wiring interconnect system with J-boxes was included, to allow for the cable runs from the load cells back to their electronics.
  • Applications: pharmaceutical, supplements, vitamins, food, packaging, filling operations, batch processing, blending, process weighing, level control, bulk weighing, etc.


    Strain Gage Input Modules and Monitoring

    Connect directly to the allen-Bradley PLC backplane. This seamless integration eliminates the cost of adding additional I/O and auxillary control boxes. Each module features two independent channels of strain gage signal conditioning, adjustable high-low alarm setpoints, and on-board power supply. The modules are compatible with all industry standard load cells and transducers.
    • Platforms 1746, 1769, 1756: standard peak monitoring, HM Models #604PLM, #1520PLM and #1756PLM
    • Platforms 1746, 1756: standard peak monitoring, thru-the-stroke monitoring with Resolver interface, HM Models #604TSM and #1756TSM
    • Platform 1756: standard peak monitoring, thru-the-stroke monitoring with Resolver interface, force versus position, and high speed up to 5,000rpm, HM Model #1756UHS

  • SPECIFICATIONS:
    • Resolution: 12 bit
    • Internal time conversion: 140 microsecond - HM Model #604; 100 microsecond - HM Model #1520 and Model #1756
    • Gage excitation: ±4 volts DC
    • Diagnostics: internal diagnostics
    • Single slot: 2 channel input
    • Strain gage input: 175 to 700ohm
  • Applications: ideal for tablet presses, packaging, or, any operation where force needs to be measured to help ensure that a quality product is being manufactured!


    Resolver Input Modules

    Interface with all sine-cosine type resolvers for absolute position monitoring. Combining strain gage and resolver modules delivers real-time signature analysis for accurate part quality control.
    • Platform 1746: HM Models #571 and #7100-D
    • Platform 1769: HM Model #1530

  • SPECIFICATIONS:
    • Resolution: 12 bit
    • Degree scaling: 0.1
    • Time conversion: internal time conversion 200 microsecond
    • Operation: master/slave operation
    • Strokes: per minute
    • Diagnostics: internal diagnostics
  • Applications: pharmaceutical, supplements, vitamins, beverage, food, packaging, compression, conveyors, signature analysis, programmable limit switch, die and brake monitoring, etc.


    Transducers and Load Cells

    Available in a wide range of sizes for measuring dynamic forces on tablet presses, processing equipment, and an array of different types of packaging machinery. All sensors are manufactured under controlled laboratory conditions to assure long term stability and accuracy. The die plug series of implant sensors continuously monitor the subtle forming forces that affects the part's quality.
    • Strain gain sensors: an industry standard for measuring load
    • Die plug sensors: assure high quality parts production with point-of-operation force monitoring
    • Load cells: capacities range from 100 pounds to 10,000 tons; standard and custom designs are available to meet your specific need(s)


    Press Controls and Factory Automation

    Control systems that combine basic machine operating functions with PLS, die monitoring, tonnage control, brake stop monitorng and servo feed interface in one affordable system. Unilimited die and part recipe storage reduces the time required to change jobs. Control systems utilize the latest design technology to meet or exceed all ANSI and OSHA safety requirements.
    • PLC platforms: allow for operator interfaces, enclosure style, and are available with press controls
    • Automation controllers: allow for flexibility and functionality


    Signature Analysis and Machine Downtime Reporting

    Software packages provide detailed analysis of forming signatures from a laptop or remoted PC. These tools generate the necessary SPC data and graphical waveforms for realtime analysis of the compression and forming operations.
    • Signature analysis: a invaluable tool for maintenance and production personnel
    • Downtime tracking system: track equipment downtime, includes Ethernet connectivity with networking software
    • Transducers and Load Cells: Available in a wide-range of sizes for measuring dynamic forces on equipment. Cell capacities range from 100 pounds to 10,000 tons.
    • Press Controls and Factory Automation: Various PLC platforms are available for long and short-runs, as well as batch manufacturing.
    • I/O Modules: For PLC integration with supported platforms that include Rockwell/Allen-Bradley SLC, MicroLogix, CompactLogix and ControlLogix; in addition, we support Siemens and Mitsubishi PLC platforms.
    • Software Reporting Packages: With signature analysis and machine downtime reports for tracking equipment performance.
    • Laser Sensing Technology: For accurately monitoring and controlling adjustable filling equipment heights, it helps to eliminate product under-filling/lites or over-filling, etc.
    • I/O Weigh Scale Application Modules: Flexible with a low cost analog input for weigh-scale applications. They possess the following features: automatic transfer of load information to a PLC data table; built-in tare function; internal gauge excitation and signal conditioning; no external amplification is required and it has a calibration setting.

    PLEASE NOTE: Pharmaceutical Production TechSource® makes every reasonable attempt to ensure the accuracy of the information we provide for each piece of equipment or part. The purchaser should verify any information or specifications with either their knowledge of the equipment, or, have the equipment inspected by a qualified person. Measurements and shipping weights are approximated or estimated. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions contained in any advertising materials, including this website, as well as any quotation or other documents which may contain a description of the equipment. All quotes are valid for 30 days, and all goods are subject to prior sale. Prices do not include creighting, freight, insurance, taxes, fees, etc.

    PLEASE NOTE: Quotes for equipment DO NOT include crating, freight, or insurance costs (CFI), taxes, tariffs, etc. are additional.

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    CONTACT: Leonard B. Antosiak - Pharmaceutical Production TechSource® - P.O. Box 1145 -
    Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1145 - (Telephone: 734.528.0444) - (eMail: ppt@2020comm.net) - (WEB PAGE: http://PharmaceuticalProductionTechSource.com)

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