Radar Level Measurement for Bulk Solids
The Micropilot FMR57 is designed specifically for continuous, non-contact level measurement of powdery to granular bulk solids. It is particularly suited to applications where conventional contact level instruments can be affected by material movement, dust or mechanical wear.
The radar signal provides continuous level information without contacting the material, making it a natural fit for large storage and process vessels.
Designed for High Silos and Long Measuring Distances
With a maximum measuring distance of 70 m, the FMR57 is suitable for high silos, bunkers and stockpiles.
Its parabolic antenna produces a very narrow beam angle, which is especially useful when the available installation space is limited or the radar needs to be directed accurately into a slim silo. Horn antenna versions are also available.
Reliable Measurement in Dusty Conditions
Dust and filling noise are common challenges in bulk-solid applications. The FMR57 is designed to maintain measurement performance even in the presence of dust, temperature layers and gas layers.
For strongly dusting or build-up-forming materials, an air purge connection can be used to help keep the antenna area clear.
Built for High-Temperature Processes
The FMR57 supports process temperatures up to +400°C, making it suitable for applications where many conventional level technologies reach their limits.
Its process pressure range extends from vacuum to 16 bar, allowing it to be used across a broad range of industrial bulk-material processes.
A Strong Fit for Difficult Bulk Materials
The FMR57 is designed for applications involving powdery and granular materials, including conditions where material properties and surface conditions can change during filling and emptying.
Its Multi-Echo Tracking technology helps the instrument identify the actual level signal while reducing the influence of unwanted echoes from vessel internals or other disturbances.
Practical Commissioning and Maintenance
Depending on configuration, the FMR57 supports Bluetooth commissioning and operation through the SmartBlue App. Heartbeat Technology, HistoROM and RFID identification are also available features that can simplify commissioning, verification and device management.
Flexible Integration into Process Control
The FMR57 can be supplied with 4–20 mA HART, PROFIBUS PA or FOUNDATION Fieldbus, depending on the selected electronics. Bluetooth communication is also available as an option.
This allows the instrument to fit into both conventional process control systems and more modern digital maintenance workflows.
Key Features
- Free-space radar level transmitter for bulk solids
- Continuous, non-contact level measurement
- 26 GHz K-band radar
- Accuracy ±3 mm
- Maximum measuring distance 70 m
- Process temperature -40 to +400°C
- Process pressure vacuum to 16 bar
- Suitable for powdery and granular bulk solids
- Horn or parabolic antenna
- Parabolic antenna with narrow beam angle for slim silos
- Air purge connection for dusty and build-up-forming media
- Multi-Echo Tracking
- Heartbeat Technology
- Optional Bluetooth commissioning with SmartBlue App
- 4–20 mA HART, PROFIBUS PA or FOUNDATION Fieldbus
- International hazardous-area approvals available
- SIL and marine approvals available depending on configuration
Typical Applications
High Silos
Continuous level measurement in tall storage silos where a long measuring distance and narrow radar beam are useful.
Powder and Granular Materials
Suitable for materials such as powders, granules and other non-liquid bulk solids.
Cement and Building Materials
Useful for storage and process vessels containing demanding bulk materials where dust and build-up are common.
Mining and Minerals
Suitable for large storage vessels, bunkers and stockpiles containing mineral and granular materials.
Chemical Bulk Storage
Continuous non-contact level measurement where process conditions, dust or material build-up make contact technologies less attractive.
High-Temperature Bulk Processes
Suitable for applications requiring process temperatures up to 400°C, when the selected configuration meets the process requirements.
Stockpiles and Bunkers
The long measuring range and non-contact principle make the FMR57 suitable for large open or enclosed bulk-material storage arrangements.
FAQ
What is the Endress+Hauser Micropilot FMR57?
The FMR57 is a free-space radar level transmitter designed for continuous, non-contact level measurement of powdery and granular bulk solids.
What materials can the FMR57 measure?
It is designed for bulk solids, particularly powdery to granular materials. The actual measuring range can depend on the material's reflection properties, bulk density, angle of repose and surface condition.
What is the maximum measuring distance?
The maximum specified measuring distance is 70 m. Actual usable range depends on the material and installation conditions.
What is the accuracy of the FMR57?
The specified accuracy is ±3 mm.
What radar frequency does the FMR57 use?
The FMR57 operates in the K-band at approximately 26 GHz.
Can the FMR57 be used in dusty applications?
Yes. It is designed for demanding bulk-solid applications, including strongly dusting and build-up-forming media. An air purge connection is available to help keep the antenna area clear.
What is the maximum process temperature?
The specified process temperature range is -40 to +400°C.
What is the maximum process pressure?
The process pressure range is vacuum to 16 bar.
What is the difference between the horn and parabolic antenna?
The parabolic antenna provides a particularly narrow beam angle and is useful for slim or tall silos where accurate beam positioning is important. The FMR57 is also available with horn antennas.
Can the FMR57 communicate with a PLC?
Yes. Depending on the selected configuration, the FMR57 supports 4–20 mA HART, PROFIBUS PA and FOUNDATION Fieldbus.
Is Bluetooth available?
Yes. Bluetooth wireless technology and commissioning through the SmartBlue App are available as options.
