Level monitoring in a swarf hopper
Requirement
As a by-product of machining workpieces, cutting machine tools produce a significant amount of swarf for which there is no use. But given that the swarf fills such a large volume, it is necessary to permanently discharge it into a swarf hopper because they would otherwise disrupt the production of further workpieces. The level in this swarf hopper needs to be permanently monitored.
Implementation
As the edges of the swarf are very sharp an optical solution was chosen here, to stay out of contact with the swarf. Using the optical distance sensor O1D100, the level is detected from above. When the maximum level is reached, the sensor provides a signal for emptying of the swarf hopper.
Customer benefits
Production of the workpieces in the machine tools is not interrupted unnecessarily as the emptying of the swarf hoppers is automated. This means an increase in productivity.
As a by-product of machining workpieces, cutting machine tools produce a significant amount of swarf for which there is no use. But given that the swarf fills such a large volume, it is necessary to permanently discharge it into a swarf hopper because they would otherwise disrupt the production of further workpieces. The level in this swarf hopper needs to be permanently monitored.
Implementation
As the edges of the swarf are very sharp an optical solution was chosen here, to stay out of contact with the swarf. Using the optical distance sensor O1D100, the level is detected from above. When the maximum level is reached, the sensor provides a signal for emptying of the swarf hopper.
Customer benefits
Production of the workpieces in the machine tools is not interrupted unnecessarily as the emptying of the swarf hoppers is automated. This means an increase in productivity.
Products used in this application
 |
O1D105 - Optical distance sensor, Visible laser light, protection class 2 laser, 4-digit alphanumeric display, IP 67, Ambient temperature: -10...60 °C, Range: 0.2...10 m, M12 connector |  |
 |
 |
More applications in this product group
- Level monitoring in a parts washer
- Level monitoring in a swarf hopper
- Level monitoring of oil in a hydraulic power pack
- Object recognition "bearing present" in gearbox assembly
- Position monitoring of brake disks
- Position verification on a roller conveyor
- Pressure control of hydraulic power packs
- Pressure monitoring in a parts washer
- Temperature monitoring of hydraulic oil
