FAQ
Are the Inmec Sensors applicable outside of the sugar industry?
Yes, the sensors measure total solids or concentration of various organic and inorganic materials. Application covers a wide range of applications in various industries. Both dissolved or suspended solids are being measured identically.
What are the key benefits of digital microwave technology?
Digital microwave technology offers superior signal to noise ratio compared to traditional analog technology. Other significant benefits include a high measuring resolution and long term stability that eliminates the need for frequent recalibration.
How do microwave sensors compare with optical methods like refractometers?
Microwave based sensors measure both suspended and dissolved solids. This is important, for example, in sugar crystallizing where both dissolved sugar and crystals need to be precisely measured as one total solids value. Another difference is the fact that microwave sensors tolerate significant material build up on sensor surfaces, whereas optical methods start drifting even with slight lens dirt build up.
Inmec offers remote services. Why is that so important?
In order to gain the highest return on investment, every sensor and control loop should be tuned to peak performance. At Inmec we feel that technical support and assistance has to be available whenever needed. We, as a sensor supplier have the best product knowledge and want to share our know how with our clients.
What are the differences between a Microwave solids sensor and a Refractometer?
A Refractometer utilizes the refractive index of a substance. The refractive index is a measure of how much light is bent as it passes through a substance. The refractive index changes with the concentration of dissolved solids only, and therefore it is not applicable for substances with suspended solids. This is a significant limitation, since most of the substances, for example within food the & beverage industry, contain both solids components.
Total solids is a necessary variable to be measured real time in various processes like the evaporation of syrups, juices, jams etc. Dairy product manufacturing utilizes total solids measurement combining fat, lactose and protein in order to obtain comprehensive information for cheese process control. In sugar crystallization, it is necessary to measure both dissolved sugar of incoming juice and solid crystals formed in a vacuum pan.
A Microwave based Digital Total Solids Sensor reliably measures both suspended and dissolved substance components. Since a microwave sensor utilizes the dielectric properties of a substance, it tolerates scaling on key detecting components called antennas, whereas a light reflectance based, optical refractometer drifts even with the slightest build up on the lens surface.
