Technology

The microwave barrier consists of a VEGAMIP T61 transmitter and one or several VEGAMIP R61 receivers. The transmitter sends a focussed microwave signal via a horn antenna placed opposite to the receiving unit. If medium gets between the transmitter and the receiver, the microwave signal is damped. The receiver measures the attenuation of the received microwave signal and generates a switching signal from it. The user can move this switching point freely via two push-buttons and thus adjust the sensitivity of the microwave barrier. In addition, he can set the switching delay between 0.1 and 20 s.

Technical Data

Operating voltage
     20 ... 253 V AC, 50/60 Hz, 20 ... 72 V DC

Power consumption
     1 ... 8 VA (AC), ca. 1,3 W (DC)

Transmitting frequency
     24 GHz (ISM-Band)

Measuring range    
     up to 100 m

Output     
     relay output, 2 floating switching contacts
     relay data AC 5A, 253 V AC
     - DC 4 A, 30 V DC; 0,2 A, 125 V DC

Switching delay
     adjustable 0,1 ... 20 s

Process fitting
     G11/2" or 11/2" NPT

Process temperature
     -40 ... +80°C
     with mounting adapter -40 ... +450°C

Process pressure
     -1 ... +4 bar

Protection rating
     IP 66/IP 67
 
Approvals
    General wireless permit, Dust-Ex acc. to ATEX, FM, CSA, IEC

Antennas

The microwave barrier VEGAMIP is a plics® sensor and utilizes the advantages of that modular concept fully. Several antenna systems with different features are available. The antenna system can thus be perfectly adapted to widely different applications.

1.) Standard antenna G 1½" or 1½" NPT with PTFE cover
The antenna system, which is integrated in the process fitting is protected from dirt and damage by a PTFE cover. This antenna is particularly suitable for front-flush installation in containers or pipes. The front-flush ceramic disk in the mounting adapter makes use possible even with very abrasive mediums.

By means of a welded sleeve or nut, the standard antenna can be simply and easily adapted to practically any type of vessel or construction.

For high process temperatures, the standard antenna can be simply upgraded with the screw-on mounting adapter for applications up to 450° C.

2.) Plastic horn antenna with PP antenna cover
Due to its versatile mounting options, the plastic horn antenna with diameter 80 mm and antenna cover of PP has already proven itself well in combination with the VEGAPULS 60 radar sensors. Mounting is carried out with an adapter flange or a mounting strap. The mounting strap allows very simple mounting and orientation of the sensor.

3.) Horn antenna
The horn antenna is available in many different sizes and variations. This antenna has also proven itself in combination with the VEGAPULS 60 radar sensors and, with its wide variety of materials and seals, gives VEGAMIP 61 a virtually unlimited range of application. Process pressures from -1 ... 160 bar and temperatures up to 450° C can thus be realized. A purging air connection for cooling or antenna cleaning is available as an option.

4.) Angled antenna extension
In case of very high ambient temperatures at the measuring point, VEGAMIP 61 can be separated from the measuring point with an antenna extension. The electronics can thus be protected from hot ambient air with no great effort. In steelworks, for example, the sensors are well protected from the extreme heat.

Mounting Options

VEGAMIP 61 is especially characterized by its numerous mounting options.
 
Containers made of non-conducting materials are ideal for the application of microwave barriers. Since microwaves penetrate these materials, measurement from outside is possible. This makes mounting simple and universally adaptable to the most different applications.

Since microwaves cannot radiate through metallic vessel walls, the instrument is mounted on a suitable mounting socket or flange in such cases.
For front flush installation, a G1½ welding sleeve is recommended.
Measurement through suitable window materials is of course also possible.
Almost all non-conducting substances, like glass, ceramic, plastic, etc., are in principle suitable as window material.

If the microwave barrier can be mounted only on one side, a reflector can also be used. The container wall or a metal plate can be used as a reflector.

A mounting adapter with a ceramic process separation is available for adapting the sensors to very hot or extremely abrasive applications. It is simply screwed onto VEGAMIP 61.

The sensors can be very easily adapted to local conditions via a mechanical adaption, e.g. the use of a metal plate as a mirror for signal deflection. A simple metal tube is also suitable for signal guidance.