SICK GM901 gas analyser and TRANSIC111LP laser oxygen transmitter

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The GM901 gas analyser from SICK monitors carbon monoxide during the coffee roasting process, thus preventing potential explosions which could be caused by high concentrations of gas in the roaster. Due to laser technology, it is possible to measure oxygen quickly on the packaging machine itself.

When roasting, maximum concentration is required. With industrial roasting processes, the temperatures vary between 200°C and 280°C depending on the product, degree of roasting and desired roasting colour. When the coffee beans are dried during the roasting process, CO₂ and CO are given off alongside water and oils. As the roasting process continues, particularly with batch roasters, the CO concentration can increase so sharply that there could be a risk of deflagration or even an explosion, which could destroy the roaster beyond repair.

To avoid this, using dynamic measurement to track the CO concentration is recommended. This will mean that the roasting process can be stopped in good time. The GM901 gas analyser measures carbon monoxide optoelectronically and calculates the CO concentration in mg/m³ or ppm. A purge air unit protects the optical interfaces on the sender and receiver unit from dust and dirt.

The taste of the coffee also depends on the packaging. Oxygen must be removed from the packaging, as the taste will be lost if the oxygen content is too high. The TRANSIC111LP laser oxygen transmitter from SICK measures the oxygen content directly on the packaging machine and nitrogen is added as an inert gas.

The rugged laser oxygen transmitter is easy to integrate, measuring O₂ without noticeable time delays, errors or alarms. The rapid measured value display ensures the nitrogen is controlled automatically, without the need for any additional manual interruptions. Nitrogen can be saved and maintenance costs will be lower, according to the company. The transmitter is non-wearing, does not have any mechanical parts and functions without consumables.