—– Measurement Systems / Mold Level
Fast, Precise Mold Level Control for Continuous Casting
Non-contact radiometric, also known as nuclear, measurement helps you maintain stable molten-metal level in the mold with high-speed measurement built for the heat, vibration, and demanding control requirements of continuous casting.
THE MEASUREMENT CHALLENGE
Molten-metal casting leaves little margin for level variation
Mold-level control directly affects casting stability, throughput, and product quality. Extreme heat, vibration, confined installation space, and the need for rapid control response make conventional level technologies difficult to apply or maintain. Slow or unstable feedback can contribute to inconsistent casting conditions and quality concerns.
THE RONAN APPROACH
Measure molten metal level without contacting the melt
Ronan mold level systems position the source holder and detector outside the mold. As the beam passes through the mold, changes in molten-metal level change the amount of radiation attenuated before it reaches the detector, providing real-time mold level feedback. High-speed detector and microprocessor processing provide fast feedback to the casting control system, helping operators maintain a stable mold level through cast start and normal operation.
HOW IT WORKS
Three coordinated components create one mold level measurement.
A source holder and detector span the measurement range. As material rises or falls, the energy reaching the detector changes. The transmitter converts that change into a continuous level reading.
STEP 1
The source holder creates a controlled beam across the mold.
The source geometry is selected for the mold design and the required measurement location.
STEP 2
The detector tracks rapid level changes.
As molten metal rises or falls, the detector receives a changing amount of energy.
STEP 3
The microprocessor sends fast control data.
The X96ML system processes the signal with a
10ms update time and provides mold-level information to the casting control system.
The system is engineered around the process and measurement requirements
Ronan works with the mill or OEM to match the measurement system to mold design, control requirements, mounting space, casting conditions, and desired integration approach.
What determines the mold level configuration:
- Mold geometry and measurement location
- Required update time and control-system interface
- Mounting access, cooling, and harsh-environment considerations
- Existing source, detector, and control-system compatibility for retrofit projects
Retrofit and integration support
Ronan supports system design through commissioning and can evaluate upgrade paths that retain appropriate existing sources or detectors, including equipment from other manufacturers.
Common mold level applications
- Continuous-casting molds
- Steel slab, bloom, and billet casting
- Nonferrous metal casting applications
- New mold installations and system upgrades
Technical Resources
Need help with your measurement application?
Ronan will work closely with you to develop a reliable measurement solution for your most challenging process applications.
If you need immediate assistance, please contact us directly.
About
For more than 60 years, Ronan Engineering has manufactured reliable and leading-edge instrumentation systems. As providers of real-time monitoring and measurements of critical process control points, Ronan has kept some of the world’s largest plants, factories, and facilities running safely and efficiently. Ronan has established manufacturing, sales and service facilities in Kentucky and the United Kingdom.