Use of mounting kits with restraint devices

The Kit can be equipped with a restraint device to avoid unidirectional horizontal movements. The stay rod includes ball joints with adjustable ends that connect the top plate (load receptor) to the base plate.

Stay rods can be used in three cases:

1. To stabilise a dynamic system when weighing is to take place while a large mixer is in operation.
2. To stabilise a system when stabilisation time is critical, for example for a high speed conveyor.
3. To stabilise a dynamic system and protect against the failure of connected pipes.

In particular, we will examine how the load will be applied to the load cells :

• Static load: Applications in vessels or hoppers are often subjected to a static load. In this case, horizontal forces transferred to the load cells are low: The use of restraint devices is generally not needed.
• Dynamic load: Applications such as conveyors, or tanks equipped with powerful mixers can be subjected to a dynamic load. In this case, horizontal forces can be transferred to the load cells: The use of restraint devices is therefore recommended.

Static vessel

A static horizontal or vertical vessel, without a mixer, does not require restraint devices. Restraint devices are not required when the only operation is filling and emptying the vessel.

Vessel with low speed mixing

Some vessels are equipped with a low power mixer for mixing liquid. Restraint devices are not required, even if the mixing takes place at the same time as the weighing.

Dosing machine

Some dosing machines incorporate vibrators for easier emptying. Opening and closing the doors can cause additional shocks. As long as these forces do not happen during the weighing operation, restraint devices are not required on a dosing machine.

Conveyor low speed

In low speed conveyor weighing applications, if stabilization time is not critical and the platform is not subject to severe shock loads, the use of restraint devices is not necessary.

High power mixer

High power mixers disperse, emulsify or homogenise liquids, pastes, powders or solids. These mixers generally operate at high speed and can create high vibrations and oscillations. Restraint devices are recommended for such an application.

Mixer with rigid pipes

When a vessel is equipped with a powerful mixer and rigid pipes, the tank oscillation can cause pipe fatigue failures. Restraint devices help maintain the vessel static and prevent damage to the pipes.

Horizontal mixer

In this system, the mixer rotates in a horizontal vessel. It is used to mix ingredients to produce a paste. Strong vibrations are too expected for such operations, so the use of restraint devices is highly recommended.

High speed conveyor

High speed and high capacity conveyors are uncommon. If stabilisation time is critical for this type of application, restraint devices should be used to hold the conveyor in place.

The system is fully stabilised horizontally by combining the restraint devices from all the mounting kits installed. To ensure an effective stabilisation, the mounting kits must laid out correctly.

Restraint devices must be oriented so that undesirable horizontal forces are eliminated, while allowing thermal expansion for the structure.

Examples of correct restraint devices orientations

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Examples of directions to avoid in mounting kits

These fixtures can restrict the system and affect the weighing accuracy.

This assembly prevents the expansion of the structure

This assembly prevents the deflection of the structure