FUNCTION

The mode of operation is simple in concept. The Hydro-Control Jr progressively adds water to the mix until the moisture target has been achieved. The target moisture is a nominal rather than an absolute value, so no calibration is required.

The parameters of the unique algorithm may be adjusted simply to ensure optimum performance to suit the characteristics of any specific mixer.

A 'Trim' function key enables manual intervention if required, and is used when establishing the appropriate 'Moisture Target' for any given mix recipe.

PROGRESSIVE WATER ADDITION - FASTER MIXING CYCLE

The Hydro-Control Jr's progressive water control permits short 'Dry Mix' times (typically 10 seconds); reduces time required to achieve homogeneity; reduces 'Wet Mix' time. Combined with the linearity of the Hydro-Mix V, this unique algorithm ensures optimum accuracy of final moisture.

WATER METERING

It is recommended (but not essential) that the system is used with a water meter so that the quantity of water added may be displayed in litres or gallons. A 'Reset' mode is available to ensure continued production in case of sensor failure.

DISPLAY INFORMATION

Navigation through the system is intuitive. Normally the operator would only use three screens:

The 'Mix Cycle' display indicates the progress in the mix cycle.

The 'Select Recipe' display.

The 'Edit Recipe' display.

Additional screens will be used less frequently.

The 'System set up' screen is used in conjunction with the diagnostic screens during commissioning.

The 'Diagnostic screens' provide direct communication with the Hydro-Mix V sensor and enable the set up parameters within the sensor to be viewed and changed.

MIX SEQUENCE

A typical mix cycle is illustrated below. After the aggregates and cement have been loaded, a brief 'Dry Mix' period is followed by 'Final Wet'. During 'Final Wet' water is added progressively, using the coarse and fine water feed until the moisture target for that recipe has been reached. The 'Final Wet' is followed by the 'Wet Mix', before 'Mix Complete' signifies the end of the cycle. Should the moisture reading drop below a predetermined amount during 'Wet Mix', then the system reverts to the 'Final Wet' phase and additional water is added as required.

The 'Auto Track' facility may be enabled to ensure the mix is homogenous prior to 'Mix Complete'. The parameters for Autotrack are configurable.

A 'Pre-wet' is available in which water is added to the aggregates prior to the addition of cement.

RECIPES

32 recipes are available which may be selected locally via the Hydro-Control Jr keypad or remotely using RS232 serial communication from a plant PC or an optional remote recipe module. Recipes can also be selected from a remote operator terminal. Please refer to 'Guidance Notes - when ordering' for further details.

SECURITY

Access to engineering or supervisor level information is password protected.

SYSTEM INTERFACING

The Hydro-Control Jr will operate as either (1) a stand alone system where the mix cycle is started and reset using the keypad function keys or a remote operator terminal (see accessories); or (2) as an integral part of a fully automated system using digital I/O for controlling the mix sequence steps, i.e. start/stop, cement in etc.

Simulation software - 'come play with me' This enables a PC to drive the Hydro-Control Jr as though operating in a plant. All parameters may be selected and changed and mix cycle sequences run as in a real installation.

This is an invaluable tool, enabling operators to familiarise themselves with the equipment without jeopardising production.

ORDERING GUIDANCE NOTES

When ordering, the relevant order codes should be specified. These notes are to assist with the correct identification of the components appropriate to your application. Please read these in conjunction with the Technical Details, and the current price list prevailing at the time. Items marked with an * are optional.

  1. The standard system comprising the front panel unit (order code HCJR see main picture on front of this sheet). Input/output voltage requirement MUST be specified at the time of ordering - either 90v - 140v AC, 180v - 280v AC or 2.5v - 28v DC.

  2. *The units may be supplied installed in an IP65 steel enclosure unit.

  3. *A 30W DC power supply (0116) for sites without 24 V DC supply.

  4. *Remote recipe selection module (8102) enables remote recipe selection via digital inputs (not required when using serial communication).

  5. *Remote operator terminal (8103) permits start/stop/pause/resume and recipe selection away from Hydro-Control Jr keypad.