Jiwei JWrada-33 Radar Level Sensor Secures Coal Supply in Brazilian Power Plant
Growing Electricity Demand in Brazil
Electricity consumption in Brazil is rising steadily, with an annual growth rate of approximately 8%. To meet this demand, the Brazilian government is investing heavily in expanding power generation capacity. One of the key projects is the Salvador Coal Power Plant, a 750 MW coal-fired facility located in northeastern Brazil. Managed by Eletrobras, the plant plays a crucial role in the region’s energy supply and depends heavily on reliable fuel monitoring to maintain continuous operation.
Importance of Reliable Coal Level Measurement
Without a dependable coal supply, even the most advanced power plants cannot deliver stable energy output. Coal is transported by rail and sea to the plant, then unloaded into bunkers reaching nearly 30 meters in height. From the bunkers, coal moves via conveyor systems to mills where it is pulverized before combustion in the furnace.
At every stage, precise level measurement is vital to avoid overfilling the bunkers and ensure uninterrupted coal feeding to the combustion chamber. Monitoring minimum coal levels in silos is especially critical because any supply interruption can cause furnace shutdown, resulting in costly downtime.
Challenging Conditions in Coal Bunkers
Coal bunkers present a harsh environment for measurement instruments. High concentrations of coal dust, temperature fluctuations, and chemical exposure lead to sensor fouling and unreliable readings. At the Salvador plant, operators struggled with false high-level readings despite the bunkers being nearly empty. Dust accumulation on sensors, loud operational noises, and uneven coal distribution compounded the measurement difficulties.
Jiwei JWrada-33 Radar Level Sensor: Reliable Solution for Dusty Environments
Jiwei Automations was consulted to provide a reliable level measurement solution. They recommended the JWrada-33 radar level sensor, featuring cutting-edge 80 GHz FMCW radar technology. The high-frequency radar delivers a narrow beam angle and strong signal focusing, enabling the sensor to penetrate dense coal dust and avoid interference from bunker structures.
The JWrada-33’s antenna is constructed from robust PTFE material, offering exceptional resistance to high temperatures and chemical corrosion. The lens antenna design is immune to buildup and mechanical wear. Additionally, the sensor includes a standard air purge connection to clean the antenna surface regularly, preventing dust accumulation and ensuring consistent performance.
With a measurement range up to 120 meters and accuracy of ±1 mm, the JWrada-33 easily covers the 30-meter bunker height and complex operational conditions at the plant.
Wireless Bluetooth Commissioning Simplifies Maintenance
Jiwei’s JWrada-33 supports Bluetooth wireless communication, enabling remote sensor configuration and diagnostics through the Jiwei Smart Control app on smartphones or tablets. This feature allows technicians to safely adjust parameters from a distance, minimizing downtime and exposure to hazardous environments.
Proven Performance at Salvador Plant
Since installation, the JWrada-33 radar level sensor has consistently delivered:
- Accurate and stable coal level readings with no false alarms
- Over 3000 hours of continuous operation without failures
- Real-time monitoring that supports uninterrupted coal supply to the furnace
- Reduced manual inspection needs and maintenance costs
Key Specifications of JWrada-33 Radar Level Sensor
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Frequency | 80 GHz FMCW radar for narrow beam and strong penetration |
| Measuring Range | 0 – 120 meters |
| Accuracy | ±1 mm |
| Antenna Material | Durable PTFE, resistant to heat and chemicals |
| Maintenance | Air purge system and Bluetooth remote configuration |
| Output Signal | 4–20 mA, HART, Modbus |
| Protection | IP66/IP68 (optional) |
Conclusion
The growing energy demands in Brazil require robust, accurate, and maintenance-friendly instrumentation. Jiwei’s JWrada-33 radar level sensor is a proven, reliable solution for harsh coal bunker environments, ensuring continuous fuel supply and stable power generation.
With its advanced technology and practical design, the JWrada-33 supports Brazil’s power infrastructure expansion and contributes to clean energy goals by enabling efficient coal-fired plant operation.
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