Liquid Agronomy Center Automation
Mass Flow Metering With Precision
Project: Sunrise FS, Virginia, Illinois
OVERVIEW
Welcome to another Kahler Automation “Project Showcase”. In this edition we're highlighting our solution at the Sunrise FS facility in Virginia, Illinois. Sunrise FS needed efficient ways to handle not just the hardware of pumps and meters, but also control software that would seamlessly interface with their billing system. They were already using Kahler systems in their dry facility, so adding it to their liquid side was a natural fit for everyone.
WHAT WE DESIGNED
The liquid facility features a two-bay system for ultimate flexibility and productivity; both bays can load-out product, and one can also receive. The ability to use the bays simultaneously keeps traffic moving. A mass flow is used for every chemical, and an additional mass flow on each of the bay allows trucks to be filled twice as fast as they could at their old facility. With a big bulk load of a single product they can pump out 600 gallons per minute; a low flow valve lets them slow things down to 150 gallons per minute on smaller loads. A weigh tank offers precise blending and the addition of hand-adds when needed. And a repackage station allows for easy filling of smaller containers.
Kahler’s Terminal Management TMX® software provides access to real-time inventory data, while Plant Supervisor PSX® gives them complete control over executing orders. The Sunrise FS sales office generates a ticket and sends it electronically to the loadout office, and when the load is complete the information automatically syncs with their billing software. And whenever assistance is needed, Kahler support technicians are available 24/7, along with a growing knowledge base of self-help articles and videos, as well as off-season training opportunities.
WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY
Zach Witherel, Facility Manager, Sunrise FS
“With Kahler’s system tied directly into our billing system, we’re going from the salesman to the operation side, right back to billing without ever touching a piece of paper.”
Jason Harrison, Operation Manager, Sunrise FS
“We needed a fully-automated system built for speed & efficiency. The more product you can get through the facility faster, the better. Kahler’s been a good partner with that.”
