Measurement of clarifier mud levels at Rocky Point Mill

Recently, Rocky Point has looked to increase the level of automation around the clarification/filtration stations. This situation has arisen from the retirement of long-term operators, and the need to train new operators without any previous sugar-industry experience. It was identified that providing a regular measurement of the mud level in the clarifier would afford operators more timely information to make better decisions around managing the filter station. A simple, novel, cost-effective method to measure the mud level of the clarifier and provide trended feedback to the operator is outlined. The system involves automation of the existing manual telltale valves, some pipework modifications and a basic nephelometer measurement cell that can identify the presence of mud or clear juice. This system has been programmed to measure the mud level every 10 minutes or on demand by the operator. The mud level measurement method has proven to be very reliable and robust, and it correlates consistently with the visual level of the mud in the windows on the side of the clarifier. A regular update of mud level gives new operators more confidence to manage the mud filter station and reduces the need for extreme changes. This has resulted in better overall filter-station performance and added flexibility in diversifying the scope of the effet operator role to combat increased cost of labour.