GROWN only in the tropics, the oil palm tree produces high-quality oil used in more than half of all packaged products, but its primary use is for cooking in developing countries and is as a minor part of the Western diet. It is used in food products, detergents, cosmetics and, to a lesser extent, in biofuel.
Oil palms are grown both on large plantations and on small family farms across Asia, Africa and Latin America. Such rapid expansion comes at the expense of tropical forests – which form critical habitats for many endangered species and a lifeline for some human communities. Achieving the highest possible yield with the minimum detriment to nature is the challenge of sustainable palm oil cultivation.
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is working toward a global marketplace based on socially acceptable and environmentally-friendly production and sourcing of palm oil. In addition to the WWF, various certifications have been established in recent years, including the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), the Rainforest Alliance, International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) and the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB). These groups aim to encourage increased demand for, and use of, goods produced using such practices.
An increasing number of companies in all parts of the world are acknowledging their responsibility in the global supply chain and are only purchasing RSPO-certified palm and palm kernel oil. With its excellent market prospects and high profits per hectare, palm oil therefore presents good earning opportunities in rural areas and hence also for smallholders. Sustainability certification opens access to the international market, which again increases employment and earning opportunities in the rural regions of producer countries.
According to Instrotech, the Senix ToughSonic 30 has been selected as the sensor of choice at a large producer of palm oil in Asia. This particular sensor accurately measures and monitors the level of palm oil in large tanks approximately 9 meters in height. The level data is displayed via the sensor’s 4-20mA output on a display unit, available from Senix.
Because the tanks are located outdoors, the sensors need to perform in a dirty, hot environment. The Senix ToughSonic 30 was also selected due to its rugged design. ToughSonic sensors were engineered for use in some of the harshest industrial environments and feature tough 316 stainless steel housing, potted and protected electronics, and IP68 rating.  They quickly and accurately measure level or distance, easily connect to display units, and, among other things, can control switches or pumps.
