Senix ToughSonic Sensors used to Measure Level of Palm Oil in Tanks

Grown only in the tropics, the oil palm tree produces high-quality oil used primarily for cooking in developing countries. It is also used in food products, detergents, cosmetics and, to a small extent, biofuel. Palm oil is a small ingredient in the U.S. diet, but more than half of all packaged products Americans consume contain palm oil.

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 cultivation.

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is working toward a global marketplace based on socially acceptable and environment-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.

More and more 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 up access to the international market, which again increases employment and earning opportunities in the rural regions of producer countries.

The Senix ToughSonic 30 has been selected as the sensor of choice at a large producer of Palm Oil in Asia. The Senix ToughSonic 30 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.

These tanks are located outdoors therefore the sensors needed to withstand this 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 like this one, can control switches or pumps, and more.