by Rhiannon White, Milling and Grain
In the autumn of 2017, Milling and Grain were welcomed to the Hydronix headquarters in Guildford, England for a tour of their facilities and to meet the team. From the moment we stepped foot into the building, we sensed the warm family ethos that suffuses all departments from the main office through to the workshop and distribution warehouse.
Pioneer and world-leading manufacturer of online microwave moisture measurement sensors, Hydronix boasts over 60,000 system installations in over 90 countries across the globe. However prior to the introduction of Hydronix products onto the market, the concept of moisture measurement suffered a poor reputation. Managing Director, Jason Laffan told us, "We brought brand new technology into the marketplace."
"There was a general belief that moisture sensors were inaccurate and unreliable, however the unique Hydronix measurement technique which is at the heart of every Hydronix sensor provides exceptional accuracy and reliability. We have sensors that have been operating in the field for over 20 years and are as reliable and accurate today as the day they were commissioned" Mr Laffan observed.
35 years ago, Mr Laffan"s father founded the company with a sole focus of providing for the concrete industry. Having conquered this market, it was 20 years or so later that Hydronix realised its product concept and technology could effectively be transferred into the feed and grain industries.
As a result, Hydronix now offers two cutting-edge products (Hydro-Mix XT and Hydro-Mix HT) specifically designed just for the feed and grain industry. Wherever possible it is recommended that the Hydro Mix XT be installed in ducting using the specially designed ducting system for ease of installation. This is the primary choice for installation, the sensor is also designed for use with conveyors or below silos. The Hydro-Mix HT on the other hand, is a high temperature sensor created for drying, conveying and mixing systems with a continuous process temperature range of up to 120oC.
Controlling precise moisture in grain and animal feed is crucial at all stages of processing and manufacturers seek a reliable method of measurement. Hydronix sensors measure moisture in raw materials for feed and all types of grain; they offer benefits such as reducing energy costs and wasted materials, as well as producing a consistent and repeatable end product. A key advantage to using microwave sensors is that accurate real time adjustments can be made instantaneously to improve the process. The sensors use the contact method of measurement and are not affected by dust or colour of the material being measured.
Quality products and customer care are clearly top priorities for the Hydronix team. Many Hydronix sensors supplied to the concrete industry have been operating successfully in a harsh environment for 20 years without fail, it is anticipated that the sensors for the grain and animal feed markets will have a similar if not longer lifespan.
With many years of experience producing sensors for extremely harsh environments, each sensor upholds reliability; temperature stability and wear resistance is assured. User guides and other technical documents are available on the website for all products.
On our insightful tour around the Hydronix head office, workshop and distribution hall, we had the pleasure of meeting members of the teams in all departments. Each time we were greeted with detailed explanations of the current world-class research and work they are conducting and producing on a daily basis in order to sustain their market leading position through technological advancements.
Operating through a global distribution network of automation companies and resellers, Hydronix provides exceptional product training and after sales service to customers, including onsite or telephone assistance, training, service and support in local languages.
With their highly internationalised services and products, the future for Hydronix is very bright indeed.
