Recognized late and still too few operators are aware of it
The latest findings on the hazard potential in hydraulic oils confirm to the experts at MBA Instruments that MLA1000 measuring devices should be used in all rolling mills, refineries, tank farms and, last but not least, large systems with hydraulic oil for the safety of man and machine.
Only in recent years has it become known that hydraulic oils not only prevent machine wear, but can also become electrostatically charged during the handling process. MBA Instruments has developed complex measuring technology to prevent this charge and thus the flash discharge - which can lead to explosions. The MLA1000 device ensures safety worldwide through continuous and precise conductivity measurements, especially in kerosene pipelines.
Devastating consequences
"Sparks often fly in tanks, filter elements and valves. We see traces on the machines in many aluminum rolling mills. Some make do with thick walls as secondary protection," says Frank Wengler, engineer and senior product manager at MBA Instruments. "But with sporadic and less accurate measurements, many operators are simply lucky that nothing worse happens." This is because electrostatic discharges, even below 350 mJ, can trigger at least one startle reaction in people, which in turn can provoke an accident. Only continuous and precise monitoring at all crucial points of oil handling can ensure complete safety
Background
Rolling and hydraulic oil is used in rolling mills to protect against wear, sticking and energy waste. Different materials come into contact with each other. "The safety risk posed by frictional energy was unknown for a long time. The fact that oil is constantly being replaced means that this risk accumulates. Although there are antistatic additives, they lack long-term stability," says Frank Wengler. Mixing and oil ageing, the "varnish" on hydraulic elements, contribute to the problem. The key is to determine the right amount of additives: As much as necessary, as little as possible. Only the MLA1000 has been able to do this in this country for eight years now. The measuring device uses the flow velocity within the pipeline to provide a highly accurate current value of conductivity and temperature.
Now also with IECEx certificate
So it's no wonder that this German quality product has long been in use around the world, including in companies in Australia and China. Now the MLA1000 has once again been officially certified as suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres with IECEx certification. With this international certificate in accordance with the standards of the Electromechanical Commission, national certificates can now be issued more easily. The MLA1000 already had the important ATEX certification for the German market.
MBA Instruments: The material handling specialists for measurement technology
The SMB Group in Quickborn develops sophisticated system solutions for worldwide use. MBA Instruments is the specialist for digital level measurement technology and conductivity measurement in light mineral oils. The company has deliberately opted for a high proportion of in-house production at its site in Quickborn near Hamburg. Customer requirements can thus be realized quickly, specifically and with consistently high quality. In-house design and production form the basis for the high level of vertical integration, which guarantees reliability in
