AL-KO: Sensing The Market

German manufacturer and dust extraction specialist, AL-KO THERM GMBH introduced two new accessories to its AL-KO Power Unit series at Ligna 2019.  Exclusively available in the UK through woodworking machinery distributor, TM Machinery.

The contactless filling level sensor AL-KO ALC 21 and AL-KO Dust Compartment are the latest additions to increase the efficiency of its leading mobile dust extraction systems.

Two new AL-KO Accessories launched

The new AL-KO ALC 21 sensor is a simple concept but clever never-the-less. The sensor, which is suitable for ATEX-zone 21, reliably monitors the level of the chip container and, once it reaches its maximum level, the machine alerts the operator. If it’s not emptied within 10 minutes, the machine will turn off automatically to avoid any blockages associated with overfilling. It sounds simple enough, right? But here’s the clever bit:

The control is completely contactless and runs via ultrasound. It is integrated into a dust-protected sheet steel housing and works by sending impulses that reflect off the product surface. The time it takes to reflect off the surface determines how full the container is. It has a measuring range of between 200mm and 1000mm and a detection angle of 5°, making it extremely reliable.

New AL-KO Dust Compartment for safe and easy emptying

The new Dust Compartment has been designed to work in tandem with the contactless filling sensor. Before the Power Unit’s container is changed, the Dust Compartment can be pushed into the housing to collect the dust. When removed, the remaining dust automatically falls into the container. But what really makes this stand out of the crowd is its innovative locking mechanism, a device that ensures safe and easy emptying. The lock’s clever design protects the user from harmful material residue and dust that could fall during the emptying process and pollute the room air.

New AL-KO accessories to streamline the process

Matthias Schalast, Area Sales Manager at AL-KO THERM GMBH adds, “The new AL-KO Power Unit accessories have been designed to streamline the emptying process of our portable machines. They are both compatible with all versions of the AL-KO Power Unit series and can be retrofitted to devices delivered after March 2014. They have been designed to assist users and avoid costly repair charges and the threat of down-time linked to running the machine on or over its capacity. This a fool-proof way of avoiding these problems, whilst fully protecting the user’s health and safety during the emptying process.”