Current trends in cement plant instrumentation

Accurate and reliable process measurement is critical to the ongoing productive operation of a cement plant. Key to any successful automation project is the correct application of the most appropriate field devices. Many types of instrumentation, sensors, and continuous weighing equipment that might be installed in an ordinary process plant are not suitable for the harsh environment encountered in the cement industry. In particular, the industry is recognized as having some of the most difficult level measurement applications to solve given the high temperatures and dusty atmospheres. New technology offers better performance and reliability for some of the more problematic installations. In addition, the growing use of alternative fuels presents new measurement challenges. This article looks at the proper application, use, and maintenance of typical field devices and demonstrates these by providing specific examples from the cement industry. It also looks at future trends in smart sensors as well as wireless communications which offer potential benefits to the cement industry