Successful recycling with VEGA sensors

Pyrum Innovations AG in Saarland is a model company when it comes to recycling, environmental protection and green innovation. By means of a special pyrolysis technology, used tyres from cars, trucks and bicycles are processed to produce oil, gas and recovered carbon black (rCB) as new recyclable materials. Pyrum relies on level and pressure sensors from VEGA to ensure safe and reliable processes in its state-of-the-art industrial plant.

. Around 7,500 tonnes of used tyres are turned into 5,000 tonnes of rubber granulate – this is the amount that each of the two reactors converts each year.

The pyrolysis process takes place in a 25-metre-high reactor tower. There, the granulated waste goes through a variety of process steps spanning a total of five levels. It’s important that the correct dosages are adhered to and that pressures and temperatures are constantly monitored and controlled. This prevents viscous lumps of material from forming and contaminating or, in the worst case scenario, clogging the pipes.

The company uses the very latest process technology in the reactor tower. It ensures intelligent communication between the components involved – and thus process stability. Many VEGA level and pressure sensors play a key role in the process. Because “if the operation is not monitored 100 percent reliably, even the best processes won’t help us,” says Christian Maas, chief ICA engineer at Pyrum. Besides being extremely reliable, VEGA measurement technology scores points for its simplicity. “Plug in the sensor, then parameterise it via the control system, and you’re done” – VEGA instruments meet this requirement with no problem.

The Pyrum plant is setting new standards in digitalisation. And the measurement technology deployed is living up to these new standards as well. The ICA team has already set its sights on the next level of efficiency: These digital models that deliver better process data insights could eventually replace previously necessary measuring points. “The basic building blocks for this are reliable sensor technology as well as suitable communication and digitalisation concepts.” explains Christian Maas.

Another advantage of VEGA measuring instruments: Multiple process data can be called up simultaneously. For example, VEGA level sensors continuously measure the level and at the same time detect the interface of a separation layer, if one exists. This capability is important in almost every vessel at Pyrum. “We can use it to monitor phase separation in the tanks and plan our maintenance operations better,” explains the senior ICA engineer. The data basis for this is provided by sensors already in use, via a second data channel. The Profibus PA communication standard is fully exploited for this, as all three outputs are in use.

The raw materials produced are in great demand from major chemical and tyre industries, as well as many others.. They make a significant contribution to sustainability: According to Pyrum, the carbon footprint of new tyres can be reduced by 80 percent by using recovered carbon black. And with its particle size of less than 10 µm diameter, recovered carbon black also serves as a base material for paints and varnishes, for example. VEGA measurement technology is contributing to innovative recycling methods and a more sustainable economy.