Smart weighing boosts Bayer’s production automation and efficiency
19 May 2025
The new supply centre of the agricultural, chemical and pharmaceutical company Bayer in Hangzhou, China has integrated the weighing technology of Minebea Intec for precise mixing and homogenisation in Zone 2 hazardous areas. Features such as smart calibration are saving time and labour, while seamless system integration is ensuring scalability.
As a division of the Bayer Group, Bayer Crop Science holds a leading position in the global agricultural technology sector. Recently, Bayer Crop Science established a new supply center in Hangzhou, aimed at expanding the production of products such as fungicides, insecticides, herbicides.
The solution consists of MP 79T load cells, mounting kits, junction box, and weighing indicator, enabling precise execution such as solid-liquid mixing, high-speed agitation and homogenisation in Zone 2 hazardous areas.
Notably, the mounting kit with a built-in horizontal rod effectively reduces the impact of lateral forces caused by stirring. Further, the junction box employs a one-way breathable membrane technology, ensuring no condensation inside the box. These designs have enhanced reliability under challenging environmental conditions.
Certified components for smooth system integration
As proof that Minebea Intec’s solutions can comply with regulations worldwide, providing customers with the highest level of safety assurance, the load cells and junction boxes included in the Minebea Intec solution are certified with international regulations such as ATEX and OIML, and the X2 weight indicator also holds domestic certifications in China, including the PCEC Explosion-Proof Certificate and the CENX National Explosion-Proof Certificate.
Bayer’s new supply centre aims to implement an integrated management system, by utilising advanced digital technologies while aligning with German standards. As a specialist in the field of weighing, Minebea Intec’s solutions cater to Bayer’s requirements. For instance, the X2 indicator, which features both Profibus-DP bus communication and 4-20 mA analog output, integrates into original systems, and provides room for future upgrades and expansions.
Efficient calibration and comprehensive service from a single source
Among Bayer’s 11 sets of tanks, the measurement range varies from a maximum of 9 tons to a minimum of 4 tons. If traditional calibration methods were used, each tank would need to be loaded to 80–100 percent of its capacity – a process that is time-consuming, labour-intensive, and often hindered by structural limitations.
By contrast, smart calibration allows for weightless calibration. Once the operator enters each load cell’s unique sensitivity coefficient (Cn), indicator will automatically calculate the loading data required for calibration. This feature alone can save at least three days during the installation and commissioning phase. During subsequent periodic calibrations, the smart calibration function continues to simplify operations and minimise downtime.
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