Automated Silane Filling for Evonik Antwerp with SysTec Weighing Indicators

Evonik Antwerp produces highly functional silane liquids, such as Si363®, within its Smart Effects Business Line. These silanes combine with silica and rubber to form a chemical bridge, which is crucial for manufacturing “green tires” that deliver low rolling resistance, optimized wet grip, and enhanced durability. To ensure efficient filling of silane into various containers, Evonik uses, for example, automated filling systems from the scale manufacturer Kestermann, equipped with SysTec IT8000E weighing indicators and the proven FILL E application software.

THE PROCESS
The containers to be filled are transported onto the roller conveyor of the filling system. Once the operator has entered the product number of the respective silane and the target weight, the W&M approved SysTec IT8000E weighing indicator, in conjunction with the higher-level PLC, takes over control of the automatic filling process using the under-level method.

First, containers are detected by a sensor on the roller conveyor and transported to the filling and weighing station. An optical camera system then identifies the bunghole. The opening coordinates are transmitted via the PLC to the filling nozzle, which moves into position and fills the silane through the bunghole.

The IT8000E weighing indicator controls the flow rate in several stages: first, coarse filling with a high flow rate is carried out in order to quickly reach the target weight, then the system automatically switches to fine flow in order to precisely fill the remaining quantity within the specified tolerance. Throughout the entire cycle, the SysTec weighing indicator monitors the weight, flow and tolerance limits, and controls the valves and filling lance.

The throughput of the system is 15 IBCs per hour or 60 canisters per hour, and the filling accuracy is up to 0.5% for 1,000-liter IBCs.

The weighing and process data is transferred to a higherlevel control system via the PROFINET interface.