Automation is loosely defined as the use of technology to achieve a process goal with little or no human input. Automation is usually applied to a process that is either repetitive, hazardous to humans or requires great precision. Most dredging operations are not hazardous, but do require repetition and precision and can benefit from the proper application of automation. It is important to note that the process goal must be reached for automation to be successful. A system that merely performs the motions of a process without attaining the goal is not automation.

Eliminating the operator completely is often cited as the goal for automation. It is technically possible and a very interesting challenge, but at this time cannot be economically justified. The cost of additional sensors, equipment and maintenance to completely duplicate the sensory perception of a human operator is more than the cost of having an operator. As technology advances it may become a reality, but at this time we are developing systems to assist, not replace, the dredge operator.

Our approach to automation is to develop packages to do specific functions. These packages can be used as stand alone systems or integrated into our PROCON dredge instrumentation and control system. Our modular approach to automation allows us to provide just the right amount of automation to meet the requirements of our customers. The modular approach also allows for expansion if additional automation is desired after the initial installation. We have been providing dredge automation for over 15 years - we know what works and what does not. We also know why things work and why they do not.

Successful automation requires two key ingredients. The first is a thorough understanding of the process to be automated. The second is the technical skills to apply automation technology to the process. Our team has the experience and background necessary to successfully design, build and program automation technology for dredge mining. Using our knowledge of dredge operation we have identified the critical elements of dredging and developed a range of products to automate the critical elements.

Successful dredging is defined as the process of moving a high density mixture through the discharge pipe at the target velocity without interruption. Achieving the overall goal of successful dredging requires the achievement of many "sub-goals". The three most important sub-goals are:

1. Continuously maintain an excess supply of pumpable solids at the suction inlet of the dredge.

2. Measure and regulate the intake of solids into the dredge system.

3. Measure and regulate the velocity of the mixture in the dredge system.

The following is a brief description of the Twinkle Co automation systems that are available to assist the dredge operator in achieving the sub-goals necessary to achieve successful dredging.

The Linear Cutter Automation Package
The suction inlet is where it all begins and the Linear Cutter Automation Package (LCAP) is designed to keep excess pumpable solids available. The LCAP automates the digging action of a Linear Cutter dredge by controlling the cutter speed, cutter direction and ladder hoist winch. The system relentlessly attacks the deposit until a set depth is reached. Even the best operator cannot duplicate the hour after hour, day after day effort of the LCAP. The system constantly makes small corrections to the cutter speed/direction, reducing the operator workload and increasing production. LCAP (PDF)

The CONVAC system
Assuming that ample solids are available at the suction inlet, the next task is to control the intake so that solids are taken in at a controlled rate. The CONVAC suction stability system automates the suction-side of the dredge. The modulating action of the CONVAC controls the suction density to prevent dredge system overload. In the basic configuration the CONVAC system monitors the dredge pump suction inlet pressure and the dredge system velocity. In the enhanced configuration the CONVAC system adds a density input to control production. CONVAC (PDF)

The VEECON and BIPCON systems
With the solids available and being taken into the system at the desired rate the third variable is dredge system velocity. The VEECON system adjusts the pump speed to maintain the desired velocity in the dredge system. Maintaining the proper velocity saves energy, reduces wear and results in a uniform feed to the process plant.

The BIPCON system is used on booster pump units to control the inlet pressure. The system adjusts the pump speed to maintain the desired inlet pressure. Adjusting the inlet pressure setpoint determines the amount of energy the booster adds to the system. BIPCON (PDF)

Please contact our sales department for detailed product information and to determine what Twinkle Co dredge automation can for your dredging operation.