Eastern Instruments presents its newest line of solids feeders, the CentriFeeder MCV. The CentriFeeder MCV is a solids feeder that is specifically designed to both measure and control the flow of granular or pelleted products. By integrating a flow measurement device along with the flow control capabilities of an integrated slide gate, the CentriFeeder MCV can output an extremely accurate and easily maintained consistent flow that can be used for mixing, blending, ratio control or even bulk density measurement.

For both batching and blending applications, the CentriFeeder MCV provides an accurate, real-time flow signal, as well as near perfect control of the flow rate or total. For recipe-based blending applications, control the flow rate of individual ingredients or combine several CentriFeeders for near perfect recipe control. For controlling ingredients entering a batching process, or for filling, use the CentriFeeder to control the total of one or more ingredients included in the batch/fill.

How it works

The CentriFeeder MCV is a gravimetric device that builds upon the patented flow measurement accuracy of the CentriFlow Meter by integrating the flow controlling capabilities of an integrated slide gate. Combined into a single, multifunctioning weigh feeder, the MCV measures the flow rate and total product as it passes through the feeder, but also controls the flow rate and total to a predetermined setpoint. As product flows through the MCV and over the curved measurement pan, the instantaneous flow rate is measured and sent to the included digital electronics where an internal PID control loop is established. This PID control loop modulates the integrated control valve in order to maintain a flow rate. Because the CentriFeeder MCV is able to respond to changes in flow rate within 100 ms and can typically be within +/-1.00% of the flow set point within one second, it offers a perfect alternative to conventional loss-in-weight feeders. The result is an extremely easy and accurate way to measure and control both the flow rate and total of any granular product such as pellets, grains, fertilizers and more.

Capacity of the CentriFeeder MCV

With three feeder sizes, the MCV can accommodate a wide range of flows. The smallest feeder, the CentriFeeder MCV 1.5, can measure and control flows down to 200 lb/hour, while the CentriFeeder MCV 6.0, the largest feeder, can measure and control flows up to 16,000 lb/hour or more. When used for filling, the CentriFeeder MCV can quickly fill containers as small as 1 kg.

Using the CentriFeeder MCV for flow rate control

One of the important uses of the CentriFeeder MCV is to maintain a consistent and accurate flow rate for blending or for continuous operations. To set up the feeder for continuous operating or for blending applications, simply enter a flow rate set point into the feeder’s electronics. The feeder will automatically measure the flow rate of the product as it crosses the measurement pan. The flow signal is sent back to the electronics, where it is compared against the desired set point. The integral slide gate is then modulated appropriately, using position information provided by the blade’s position sensor to reach and then maintain the set point.

Using the CentriFeeder MCV for batching or filling

The CentriFeeder MCV is also used to either dispense discrete batches, or to fill containers as small as 1 kg. Using a predictive algorithm, the feeder’s microprocessor determines the target value required to compensate for the weight of in-flight material and is thus able to stop flow before the set point has been reached, making for extremely accurate fills.

Using the CentriFeeder MCV to blend products

When used in conjunction, multiple CentriFeeder’s can blend products together. The flow rates of each product are set in their respective electronics in order to maintain the proper ratio of the different products based on a predetermined recipe. The recipe can either be entered via the CentriFeeder’s touch screen HMI or through PLC communication.

Summary

The CentriFeeder MCV solids feeder from Eastern Instruments is a unique and extremely versatile device that can be used for flow rate control and blending as well as for batching or filling. Its extreme accuracy ensures batches or blends to within plus or minus .5% and its response time — reaching set point within one second — means better control of a process. Moreover, its compact design ensures that it will fit anywhere. Whether using a single feeder to control the flow of a single product or using an array of feeders for controlling multiple ingredients, Eastern Instruments can help. Visit their website today.