Pressure compensation ups accuracy in LIW feeders
Loss-in-weight (LIW) feeder performance is dependent on accurate weighing, which can be affected by a variety of influences. In a closed system, pressure variations, such as backpressure from a downstream mixer or extruder or air pressure in the hopper due to a clogged filter, can affect the weight reading of the scale and therefore feeding accuracy. Electronic Pressure Compensation (EPC; photo) is a simple yet effective alternative to traditional mechanical pressure compensation. EPC has been shown to significantly improve feeding accuracy of gravimetric feeders in closed systems and can be less expensive than traditional solutions. In addition, the electronic solution is more effective and reliable, maintenance free and easy to retrofit on existing systems. — Coperion K-Tron (Switzerland) LLC, Niederlenz, Switzerland