Alarm Signals Potential Containment Basin Leaks

Oct. 12, 2012
Alarm is housed inside an integrated collection basin where leaks and spills are first detectable.

Scaletron Industries has introduced a new spill alarm for use with its full line of spill containment scales. Suitable for industrial and chemical process applications, the Scaletron spill alarm is housed inside an integrated collection basin where leaks and spills are first detectable. The sensor utilizes a phototransistor to detect spills and activate a relay switch. The relay may be used to trigger a light or an audible alarm. Additionally, the relay is readily integrated via PLC with other equipment facilitating automatic shutdowns, lockouts and other safety procedures.

Unlike mechanical alarms with moving parts which can jam or become loose, the Scaletron alarm operates solely on an opto-electric principle. The phototransistor is encased inside a corrosion-proof plastic dome. When a spill or leak occurs, the sensor instantly detects changes in the ambient light properties and the relay switch is immediately activated. This rapid-alert technology gives operators ample reaction time to stop leaks and thereby prevent damage to the scale and other equipment. Additionally, exposure time of workers to potentially dangerous chemicals may also be minimized.

The Scaletron scale design has the spill basin mounted directly under the scale with the alarm in the bottom of the basin. This protects the scale integrity and function from spills and leaks and ensures that both the scale and alarm perform as required in the event of a spill. The scale still measures the volume of chemical while the alarm immediately triggers the relay signal setting in motion safety and maintenance processes.

Related Content