Acrison®

WEIGH FEEDERSModel 407 Series

Bulletin 897

Advanced design technologies for superiorperformance, quality and reliability.

For Dry Solids

“Weight-Loss-Differential”

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Model 407 Weigh Feeders

Model 407X-101-1

Model 407-170-00 The Model 407 is a low profile, economically priced weigh feederemploying Acrison's advanced “Weight-Loss-Differential ” weighfeeding concepts and designs for accurately and reliably metering awide variety of dry solid (and liquid) ingredients at feed rates rangingfrom approximately one pound to several thousand pounds per hour.

Encompassing strong, field-proven weighing technology, specificallydeveloped by Acrison for “weight-loss” weigh feeding applications, theModel 407 consists of a uniquely configured, open “platform” type leverweighing system where the selected metering device "mounts" onto aweigh platform.

The robustly constructed lever weighing network is in itself a “scale ,”utilizing frictionless stainless steel flexures for all pivotal connections.As weight (product) is added to or removed from the weigh platform(metering mechanism), the lever network “moves” in a direct relationshipto that weight. This movement is precisely sensed by Acrison'sRatiometric Digital Weight Resolver and instantaneously converted intoa highly accurate digital signal directly proportional to weight.

Analogous to the weighing mechanisms used with all of Acrison's variousmodel “weight-loss weigh feeders, Model 407 Weighing Systems arealso permanently calibrated and will remain precise without the need forrecalibration and/or adjustment. In addition, these weighing mecha-nisms are not in any way delicate and/or temperamental and will operateover an ambient temperature range of –10 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.Optionally, they can be furnished in all stainless steel construction.

Unlike “weight- loss” weigh feeders that incorporate weighing systemsdesigned with one or more load cells…well known for their temperamen-tal behavior and calibration drift…Acrison weighing systems do not useload cells or any other type force measurement device for sensing weight.

Model 407 Weigh Feeders are available with various model and size Acrison drysolids metering mechanisms, typically as outlined in this Bulletin.

Acrison®

Acrison®

Acrison®WEIGH FEEDERSModel 407 Series

“Weight-Loss-Differential”(“Weight-Loss”)

Proven in thousands of installations world-wide, Acrison’s “Weight-Loss” Weigh Feeders,with their exceptionally precise and reliableweighing technology and leading edge controls,provide users with superior operational per-formance, lowest maintenance requirementsand unexcelled longevity.

For Continuous or Batch WeighFeeding Applications

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Basic Functional Diagram[Typical Dry Solids System]

Model 407 Series of Weigh Feeders

Principles of Operation

1. Weigh feeder supply hopper2. Dry solids metering mechanism3. Weighing system (non-load cell)4. Ratiometric Digital Weight Sensor

and its computational logic5. Parallel multiprocessor controller6. Variable speed motor controller7. Digital speed sensor (optional)

8. Variable speed gearmotor drive9. Input/output signals for process

control interfacing10. Product storage supply11. Automatic refill mechanism for

product supply to feeder12. Refill feeder (#12) in lieu

of refill mechanism (#11)–can also attach toproduct storage supply (#10)

13. Flexible connection14. Weighed output

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13

11

34

78

69

1

214

10

5

MultiprocessorController

As product discharges (feeds) from the scale-mountedmetering mechanism, the Ratiometric Digital WeightSensing System transmits precisely derived “loss-of-weight”information numerous times per second to the feeder’s con-troller. The controller then instantaneously calculates therate at which product is discharging and compares thatrate to the feed rate selection. Simultaneously, the controlsystem adjusts the variable speed drive of the meteringmechanism to accurately maintain the specified feed rate,while continuously monitoring all aspects of feeder operation.Response of the metering mechanism is instantaneous, thusachieving smooth short-term performance with the highestpossible degree of long-term accuracy.

The “weight-loss” principle for continuous weigh feedingrequires periodic refilling of the feeder’s supply hopper (ortank for liquid applications) as an operational requirement,which is usually a completely automatic function. The fre-quency of refills is determined by the feed rate throughputrelative to the size of the supply hopper (or tank) withinrealistic parameters necessary to maintain optimum weighfeeder performance in the gravimetric mode.

All Acrison “Weight-Loss” Weigh Feeder control systemsalso include “Acri-Lok ® ”, an Acrison patented featurewhich ensures accurate product delivery, should thefeeder’s weighing system sense an abnormal disturbanceduring operation.

Acrison weigh feeders provide users with maximum returnon their investment and an extremely low cost-of-owner-ship. With very easy and quick start-up, exceptionallongevity and low maintenance requirements, these weighfeeders offer remarkable durability and can withstand theharshest industrial environments. Their field proven non-load cell weighing systems are unsurpassed in dependabil-ity, precision and ruggedness; they are also permanentlycalibrated and virtually maintenance-free.

The output weight signal of an Acrison weigh feeder is not“integrated” (averaged) or in any way “manipulated” forstabilization purposes; the weight signal is inherently stableand directly usable by the feeder’s controller. (Integration ofa weigh feeder’s weight signal slows-down weight sensingresponse time and, in turn, adversely affects feeder per-formance, especially short-term accuracy.)

The entire weighing mechanism of any Acrison weigh feeder,including its Ratiometric Digital Weight Sensor (and associatedelectronics), is guaranteed for five years.

Continuous metering accuracy typically rangesbetween +/- 0.25 to 1 percent or better (error) at twosigma, based on a given number of consecutiveone minute weighments.

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Model 407 Series of Weigh Feeders

Acrison’s exclusive Ratiometric Digital Weight Resolver(RDWR) System, used with all Acrison weigh feeders,computes the linear movement of the lever mechanism(scale) into a true binary coded, serially transmitted datastream having a discrete resolution of 20 bits (or the abil-ity to sense 1 part in 1,048,576). This highly precise andadvanced electronic displacement measuring techniquebasically consists of a sensing element and its computa-tional logic.

The physical sensing component is composed of a series ofwindings collated on a common element that are equallyaffected by environmental changes and therefore, self-com-pensating. In addition, because the computational logic of theRDWR System compares relative measurements, rather thanabsolute values, its input power source can vary up to ±30%without affecting the output. Also, all non-weight data, bothcyclic and random in nature that may be super-imposed on theactual data, are cancelled-out.The RDWR System is linear to within 0.01 percent, repeatableto 0.005 percent, possesses long term stability of 0.005 per-cent (10,000 hours) and carries a 40,000 hour MTBF.Acrison’s RDWR System is FM (Factory Mutual) Approved andListed for operation in hazardous environments… Classes I, IIand III; Divisions 1 and 2; Groups C, D, E, F and G. This weightsensing system also complies with European hazardous areaclassifications EEx ia IIB T4 and EEx d [ia] IIB T6.

The weighing mechanism used with Acrison’s Model 407Weigh Feeders is a technologically advanced, innovativelydesigned lever network utilizing stainless steel flexures forall connecting (pivotal) requirements. It is frictionless inoperation and mechanically counterbalanced to “offset”the weight of the metering mechanism (mounted onto it ),greatly enhancing weighing sensitivity.

As noted in the illustration, two Primary Flexures (one oneach side) connect the Principal Lever Beam to the Main FeederStructure. Two Secondary Flexures (one on each side) connectthe Metering Mechanism Mounting Platform to the PrincipalLever Beam. Two Linkage Arms, each employing two additionalFlexures (one on each end), connect the lower portion of theLever Network to the Main Feeder Structure.These time-proven flexures, designed and manufactured byAcrison, provide optimum structural rigidity of the lever networkin both the horizontal and vertical planes, and ensure perma-nence of the weighing system’s calibration and accuracy pro-ducing capability. The flexures do not wear or change over time,never require adjustment, and are completely unaffected byambient temperature variations over the designed operatingtemperature range of the weigh feeder.The lever weighing mechanism is in itself a “scale”, extremelydurable and very precise in producing unamplified resolution ofbetter than one part in one million. Operationally, as weight isadded or removed from the metering mechanism and its supplyhopper (or tank), the lever network “moves” in an extremely pre-cise relationship to that weight. In turn, this movement (or dis-placement) is sensed by Acrison’s Ratiometric Digital WeightResolver (RDWR), instantaneously converting movement intoan equally precise signal directly proportional to weight.Unlike other “weight-loss” weighing systems, the physical weightsensing element (of the RDWR) does not attach to any part ofthe weighing mechanism’s lever network and therefore, cannotbe damaged by any amount of overload or shock and/or abusethat the weighing system may experience.The entire weighing mechanism of the weigh feeder, includingthe RDWR, is completely calibration and adjustment-free andguaranteed for five years.

Weighing Systemwith Acrison's exclusive Ratiometric ®

Digital Weight Resolver

Dashpot

SecondaryFlexures

CounterbalanceWeight

LinkageArm

PrincipalLever Beam

Main FeederStructure

LinkageFlexures

LinkageFlexures

Metering MechanismMounting Platform

MeteringMechanism

PrimaryFlexures

Ratiometric DigitalWeight Resolver

(RDWR)

••

••

•

••

•

Ratiometric® DigitalWeight Resolver System

(RDWR)

Scale

20 BitDigitalOutput

Exciter Element

Digital Weight Resolver (Sensing Element)

Non-ContactingCoupling Element

RatiometricDigital Weight

ResolverSystemLogic

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• •

•

•

•

•

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Model 407 Series of Weigh Feeders

Model 407-101-0

An optional discharge gate, located at the bottom of thefeed chamber, is avaiable to allow rapid emptying (seephoto page 10).

For additional information on the Models 101-0 and 101-1Feeders, please reference Equipment Data Specifications1-200-0479.

Model 101 Series Metering MechanismsThe Model 101 Series of Feeders are single auger meteringmechanisms specifically designed to meter free-flowing drysolid ingredients, primarily those of a granular nature. Thesesimplistic, yet rugged-duty mechanisms are limited to thoseapplications where the material is typically pelletized and/orflows very freely, but is not hygroscopic, moist, pressure sen-sitive and/or sticky. The feeders are powered by a single vari-able speed gearmotor drive.

The Models 101- 0 and 101-1 Feeders are available with anumber of different size hoppers, with selection based on thefeed rate requirements and on the physical handling charac-teristics of the material.

Single Auger Metering Mechanism Model 101 Series of Feeders

Model 407 with a Model 101-0 Metering MechanismModel 407X with a Model 101-1 Metering Mechanism

To reliably meter a wide variety of free-flowing, granular materials at feedrates ranging from several pounds to approximately 72 cubic feet per hour.

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Model 407 Series of Weigh Feeders

Model BDF Metering Mechanisms

Model 407-BDFM

The Model BDF Series of Feeders feature a novel combina-tion of Acrison’s dual agitator bin discharging (hoppering)mechanism and a metering auger to ensure both positiveflow and feed of even the most stubborn-handling dry solidmaterials.

In operation, the action created by the dual agitatorsenhances gravity flow of material out of the feeder’s integralsupply hopper and into its feed chamber, while ensuringthat the centrally positioned metering auger is effectivelyand uniformly “filled” with product of a consistent state foraccurate and highly dependable metering performance.

The internal design of Acrison’s Bin Discharger Feeders(BDF) also eliminates any type of convergence that couldprove detrimental to product flow and feed. Mechanically,the two slower speed agitators, and the smaller higher

speed metering auger, are geared together to operate atproportional, but dissimilar speeds, powered by a commonvariable speed gearmotor drive.

The Models BDFM and BDF-1 Feeders are available with anumber of different size hoppers, with selection based onthe feed rate requirements and on the physical handlingcharacteristics of the material.

For additional information on the Models BDFM and BDF-1Feeders, please reference Equipment Data Specifications1-200-0482.

Dissimilar Speed Auger/Agitator Metering Mechanism

Model BDF Series of Feeders

Model 407 with a Model BDFM Metering MechanismModel 407X with a Model BDF-1 Metering MechanismTo reliably meter a wide variety of amorphous materials at feed rates

ranging from about one pound to approximately 19 cubic feet per hour.

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Model 407 Series of Weigh Feeders

Model 407-105

Model 105 Series Metering MechanismsThe Model 105 Series of Feeders utilize Acrison’s dissimilarspeed, Double Concentric Auger Metering Mechanism, uni-versally recognized for its inherent ability to accurately anddependably meter an extremely broad variety of dry solidingredients.

In operation, the unique “Inter-Auger-Action” produced bythe rotation of the Double Concentric Augers, very effective-ly “conditions” dry solid materials to a consistent state whileeffectively and reliably filling the centrally positioned meter-ing auger from “a full 360 degrees.” The result is an excep-tionally high degree of materials-handling versatility andsuperior all-around metering performance. The larger “con-ditioning auger” (Intromitter), and smaller metering auger,

are mechanically geared together to operate at proportional,but dissimilar speeds, powered by a common variable speedgearmotor drive.

The Models 105 and 105X Feeders are available with anumber of different size hoppers, with selection based on thefeed rate requirements and on the physical handling charac-teristics of the material.

For additional information on the Model 105 Series of Feeders,please reference Equipment Data Specifications 1-200-0480.

Dissimilar Speed Double Concentric Auger Metering Mechanism

Model 105 Series of Feeders

Model 407 with a Model 105 Metering MechanismModel 407X with a Model 105X Metering Mechanism

To reliably meter a wide variety of semi-free-flowing materials at feed ratesranging from several pounds to approximately 72 cubic feet per hour.

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Model 407 Series of Weigh Feeders

Model 407 with a Model 170-00 or 170-0 Metering MechanismModel 407X with a Model 170-1 Metering Mechanism

To reliably meter a wide variety of amorphous materials at feed rates rangingfrom about one pound to approximately 51 cubic feet per hour.

Model 170 Series Metering Mechanisms

Model 407X-170-1

Acrison’s Model 170 Series of Feeders consist of circular, full-throat opening, “Flat Bottom” feed chambers that attachdirectly to the outlets of mating supply hoppers. Within thefeed chamber, a slowly rotating horizontal “conditioning” agi-tator ensures positive flow of product out of the supply hopperand into the feed chamber. Beneath the feed chamber,housed in a trough offset to one side, the feeder’s meteringauger is efficiently, completely and reliably filled with productby the sweeping rotational action of the uniquely configuredagitator. All areas within the feed chamber and meteringtrough are active; dead zones do not exist and consequently,product stagnation cannot occur anywhere within the feeder.

With only a few moving parts, Model 170 Series MeteringMechanisms have the unique ability to “self-empty” - whenpermitted to feed until empty, or to “empty-quickly” - when theneed to empty the feeder rapidly exists. The latter is accom-plished by means of a novel discharge port located in the flatbottom of the feed chamber opposite the metering augertrough. Clean-out is extremely fast, simple and complete.

As standard, the Model 170 Series of Feeders utilize twoseparate drives - one for the agitator and one for the meter-ing auger. The slow speed agitator is usually powered by aconstant speed gearmotor, and the metering auger by avariable speed gearmotor drive. However, depending uponapplication parameters, both the agitator and meteringauger may be powered by variable speed drives, operatingin a proportional ratio (adjustable) to each other.

Optional “Active Hopper” DesignAs an option, based on product handling characteristics,Model 170 Feeders may be equipped with Acrison’s exclusive“Hopper Isolation Pad”, which allows the feeder’s integralsupply hopper to become uniformly active when a gentle, highfrequency vibration is applied to it. In turn, positive flow ofeven the most difficult-handling products out of the feeder’ssupply hopper and into its feed chamber is ensured.

The Models 170-00, 170-0 and 170-1 Feeders are availablewith a number of different size hoppers, with selection basedon the feed rate requirements and on the physical handlingcharacteristics of the material.

For additional information on the Model 170 Series of Feeders,please reference Equipment Data Specifications 1-200-0525.

Self-EmptyingAuger/Agitator Metering Mechanism

Model 170 Series of Feeders

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Model 407 Series of Weigh Feeders

Model 407 Series Weigh Feeders with Model 170 Metering MechanismsHigh performance, self-emptying dry solids weigh feeders in a space saving, compact design.

Model 407X-170-1

• Very easy clean-out• Compact design• Superior performance• Highly reliable• Very low maintenance• Exceptional longevity• Economical

Model 407-170-0

10

Model 407 Series of Weigh Feeders

• Compact design• Highly reliable• Superior performance• Very low maintenance• Exceptional longevity• Economical

Reliable, robust,high performance dry solids weigh feedersin low-profile packages

Model 407X-105X

Model 407-101-0(with optional product discharge gate)

Model 407X-BDF-1

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Weigh Feeder Controllers and Control Systems

All Acrison controllers are certified to UL, CSA and EC specifications.

Acrison Weigh Feeder ControllersAcrison Weigh Feeder Controllers will operate in either a con-tinuous or batch mode, gravimetrically or volumetrically,and/or in a master/slave or ratio proportioning mode. Theyare available with a variety of keyboard or graphic touch-screen color displays in various languages and can be pro-vided with recipe storage capabilities as well as with a widerange of I/O interfacing options (i.e., analog, digital,modem, infrared, wireless, serial and network I/O).

For decades, Acrison Weigh Feeder Controllers have providedstate-of-the-art performance for thousands of users world-wide. Leading edge products such as the Models C-702,BC-702, SBC-2000® and MD-II Family of Controllers,including the MD-II MFC® (Multi-Feeder Controller) and theAcri-Data® Supervisory System Controller, have gaineduniversal acceptance throughout all sectors of theProcessing Industries, and are highly recognized for theirversatility and reliability.

SBC-2000 Weigh Feeder Control ModuleAcrison’s ongoing investment in research and developmentcontinues to result in the evolution of the Company’sControls and Control Systems’ capabilities with the launch ofthe technologically advanced ModelSBC-2000 Weigh Feeder ControlModule.This new, small and power-ful module, encompassing the latestin microcomputer logic and func-tional algorithms, provides anunprecedented number of standardand optional features, along withbroad-scope flexibility for single andmulti-feeder control requirements ina compact and cost-effectiveassembly, particularly those appli-cations that require central comput-er control, minimal hardware andwhich do not necessarily require alocal user interface or keyboard/dis-play. The advanced SBC-2000Weigh Feeder Controller can besupplied with various displayoptions if so required.

Multiple Weigh Feeder Control SystemsModel SBC-2000 Controller Modules, when configured formulti-feeder operation, offer unprecedented ease-of-opera-tion, maximum user flexibility and outstanding performancecapabilities. When SBC-2000 Modules are combined withAcrison’s Acri-Data Supervisory Control and Software pack-age, it is possible to operate and monitor up to 20 Acrisonweigh feeders, while providing rapid data and screenupdates, including recipe storage and retrieval, all of whichare selectable and operable from the Acri-Data display.

Acrison Weigh Feeder Controllers and ControlSystems are universally recognized for theirdesign superiority, unparalleled versatility,ease-of-use and operational reliability. Frombasic single weigh feeder controllers to com-plex multi-feeder supervisory control systems,the technologically advanced designs of thesedevices, including their cutting-edge software

routines, provide users with unexcelled weighfeeder performance to satisfy the mostdemanding metering requirements across abroad spectrum of applications. With a widerange of options, accessories and interfacingcapabilities, these controllers and control sys-tems are also available in a number of differentpackaging configurations.

Acri-Data Color Touchscreen Display

Single Feeder Color TouchscreenDisplay

Single FeederKeyboard Display

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Reference Design Specifications 1-200-113, 1-200-342, 1-200-0601,1-200-602, 1-200-627 and 1-200-642 and Bulletin 949.

302-0626/B/ 4-05/ 7008

Acrison products…• Models 101 and 130 Volumetric Feeders• Models V101 and V130 Volumetric Feeders• Model 1015 Volumetric Feeder Series• Model 105 Volumetric Feeder Series• Model W105 Volumetric Feeder Series• Model 120 Volumetric Feeder• Model 140 Volumetric Feeder Series• Model 170 Volumetric Feeder Series• Bin Discharger Feeders• Model 200 Series of Weigh Belt Feeders• Model 203B Series of Weigh Auger Feeders• Model 270 Series of In-Line Weigh Feeders• Models 402, 404, A405, 406 and 407 Series (“Weight-Loss-Differential”) Weigh Feeders• Model Series 403 (“Weight-Loss-Differential”) Weigh Feeders• Model 403B (D) Batch/Dump Weighing Systems• Model 404BZ(BU) Bulk Bag Unloader Batch Weigher• Models 350 and 301 Continuous Blenders and Blending Systems• Multiple Auger Bin Dischargers and Multiple Auger Bin Discharger Hoppering Systems• Vibratory Bin Dischargers• Model 500 Series of Polyelectrolyte Preparation Systems• Water and Waste Water Treatment Systems• Volumetric and Gravimetric Feeder Controllers and Control Systems• Accessory Equipment for Acrison Products• Systems Engineering

Copyright 2005— Acrison, Inc.— all rights reserved.Acrison is a Registered Trademark of Acrison, Inc., Moonachie, New Jersey ® Registered Acrison TrademarksDomestic and Foreign Patents issued and pending .

®

Discover the difference!We cordially invite you to witness a test in Acrison’sstate-of-the-art Customer Demonstration Facilitieshandling your actual product(s) with the specificequipment we recommend for the application.Usually, there is no cost or obligation for this service.Discover the difference in technology, quality andperformance of Acrison equipment.

Empire Boulevard FacilityMoonachie, NJ USA

Joseph Street FacilityMoonachie, NJ USA

Trafford Park FacilityManchester, UK

Acrison,Inc.®

20 Empire Blvd.Moonachie, NJ 07074 USA201-440-8300 • Fax: 201- 440-4939Email: informail@acrison.comWebsite: www.acrison.com

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