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Transforming level management in ethanol production

IN the intricate world of industrial processes, achieving accurate level measurements in tanks with agitators has been a persistent hurdle. Enter the Vegabar 82, a differential pressure (DP) level measurement solution that defies turbulence and delivers unwavering reliability. The following case study explores the transformative impact of Vegabar 82 on tank-level measurements in complex industrial settings.

For AlcoNCP, a multinational corporation based in KwaZulu-Natal, Vega Instrumentation has been a trusted supplier since 2017. AlcoNCP’s diverse customer base spans sectors including food & beverage, cosmetics and medical.  The company relies on sustainably cultivated maize to produce neutral ethanol products and Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS), a high-protein animal feed.

Shon Roopnarain, control systems engineer at AlcoNCP, highlighted the challenges the company faced with previous instrumentation, leading it to choose Vega to fulfil its differential pressure measurement needs. Initially introduced in 2016/2017 for challenging level measurement applications at the evaporator plant with mixes of high/low temps, CIP chemicals, vacuum pressures and sticky slurry-type product. Sensor barrels were customised (extended lengths and double-sealed) to ensure flawless measurement. This was coupled with the world-class foundation fieldbus protocol including AMS – these EDPs proved to be the perfect choice at an extremely competitive price point.

Consequently, when the time came to upgrade the fermentation plant, it was a straightforward decision to continue using EDP technology, albeit in a less demanding process environment. The EDPs have also been rolled out to the distillation plant.

Ethanol production relies on accurate pressure measurements for efficient and safe production. AlcoNCP, equipped with the Vegabar 82 and supported by Vega’s expert service team, experiences heightened efficiency and peace of mind.

In partnership with Vega, AlcoNCP continues to master the chemical process of turning grain into sustainable products.