Fork-11: Superior Vibronic Level Switch for Urea Hoppers
In the fertilizer industry, urea hoppers play a critical role in storing and dispensing granular urea. These environments often face demanding conditions including high bulk material density, elevated temperatures, and dusty, abrasive atmospheres. Selecting a reliable point level detection solution is essential to maintain process safety and efficiency.
Jiwei’s Fork-11 vibronic level switch is engineered specifically for such challenges, providing accurate and stable detection in materials ranging from as low as 8 kg/m³ up to several thousand kilograms per cubic meter. It withstands extreme temperatures up to 400°C, far exceeding the 280°C maximum rating of the widely used Endress+Hauser Soliphant FTM51.
Technical Challenges in Urea Hopper Applications
Urea (CO(NH₂)₂) is typically stored in prilled or granular solid form. Despite its chemical stability, urea handling presents several difficulties:
- Wide bulk density variations from 8 kg/m³ (light powders)
- Material bridging and caking due to moisture and granule interaction
- Dust generation and abrasion in high-flow conditions
- Thermal stress from drying or heated silo environments
Traditional level detection instruments often suffer from heat limitations or signal instability under these conditions.
Fork-11 vs. E+H Soliphant FTM51: Key Performance Comparison
The following table highlights the critical performance advantages of Jiwei’s Fork-11 vibronic level switch compared to E+H’s Soliphant FTM51:
| Feature | Jiwei Fork-11 | E+H Soliphant FTM51 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Operating Temperature | 400°C | 280°C |
| Bulk Density Detection Range | 8–5000 kg/m³ | 10–5000 kg/m³ |
| Maximum Probe Length | Up to 6 meters | Up to 4 meters |
| Installation Orientation | Any (horizontal, vertical, angled) | Any |
| Self-Cleaning Vibration | Yes | Yes |
Wider Bulk Density Range
Fork-11 vibronic level switch’s ability to detect bulk densities as low as 8 kg/m³ makes it suitable for a broader range of materials, including fine powders and light granules that are challenging for many competitors. The Soliphant FTM51 typically starts detecting around 10 kg/m³, which narrows its effective range in lighter solids.
Extended Probe Length
Jiwei provides Fork-11 probes up to 6 meters in length, accommodating deep or large-capacity hoppers common in fertilizer plants. In contrast, the Soliphant FTM51 supports up to 4 meters, which can limit its use in some installations requiring longer reach.
Superior High-Temperature Endurance
Fork-11 vibronic level switch’s 400°C maximum temperature rating enables it to function reliably in hot process streams, such as urea drying or heated silos, where FTM51’s 280°C limit can cause premature failure or operational issues.
Precise and Stable Detection for Dense Bulk Solids
Using vibrating fork technology, Fork-11 detects the presence or absence of bulk solids by monitoring changes in its natural frequency. This method ensures high sensitivity and immunity to dust, buildup, and mechanical wear, essential in harsh fertilizer environments.
The switch maintains excellent performance across the full bulk density range of 8 to 5000 kg/m³, adapting to varying material conditions without false triggering.
Easy Installation and Durable Design
Fork-11’s compact 40 mm fork and robust stainless steel construction provide excellent resistance to corrosion, abrasion, and thermal fatigue. Its versatile mounting options (side, top, or angled) simplify integration into existing systems and new installations alike.
The device’s self-cleaning vibration and lack of moving parts reduce maintenance needs and increase reliability, improving uptime in demanding production environments.
Conclusion
Jiwei’s Fork-11 vibronic level switch delivers unmatched performance for urea hopper applications where bulk densities vary widely (8–5000 kg/m³) and temperatures reach up to 400°C. Its extended probe length of up to 6 meters allows for flexible installation in large or deep vessels.
Compared to the Endress+Hauser Soliphant FTM51, Fork-11 offers:
- Higher thermal tolerance
- Broader bulk density detection capability
- Longer maximum probe length
- Enhanced durability and maintenance benefits
For fertilizer producers and plant engineers seeking a reliable, precise, and rugged point level detection solution, Fork-11 represents a technically advanced and cost-effective choice.