Description
Sartorius MDB-8E | Multi-Channel Metal Detector Evaluator
Product Introduction
The Sartorius MDB-8E is the higher-function evaluator in the MDB metal-detection family. Unlike the single-channel MDB-5E, the MDB-8E uses multi-channel technology, flexible phase adjustment, menu-driven operation, and continuous self-testing. Sartorius documentation also specifies storage for 40 product types, along with traceable documentation and internal function control.
The important distinction is that MDB-8E is the evaluation electronics, not simply a standalone search coil or generic metal sensor. It belongs to a complete detection architecture in which the evaluator processes signals from compatible MDB search coils and supports the associated detection and equipment-protection sequence. Sartorius lists applications across plastics, chemicals, recycling, rubber, wood, textiles, mining, power generation, tobacco, clay, and food processing.
MDB-8E
Key Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sartorius
- Model: MDB-8E
- Product Type: Electronic metal-detector evaluator
- Technology: Multi-channel
- Processing: Microprocessor-oriented
- Phase Adjustment: Flexible
- Operator Interface: Menu-driven
- Product Memory: 40 product-type memory locations
- Self-Test: Continuous
- Internal Diagnostics: Advanced internal function control
- Documentation: Traceable documentation capability
- Associated Equipment: Sartorius MDB search-coil systems
- Primary Application: Industrial metal detection and equipment protection
- Lifecycle: Legacy MDB hardware; verify the exact system configuration before purchasing a replacement
The published Sartorius material does not provide enough reliable information to state a specific number of physical input/output terminals, communications protocol, output-current rating, or exact supply voltage for every MDB-8E configuration. Those values should not be inferred from unrelated MDB equipment or from generic marketplace descriptions.
Application Scenarios & Pain Points
Multi-Channel Metal Detection
The is intended for installations requiring more than the single-channel architecture of the MDB-5E. Its multi-channel design allows the evaluator to operate within more complex detection arrangements.
Equipment Protection
Sartorius describes MDB systems for protecting processing equipment from metallic contamination. Typical applications include mills, kneaders, rollers, extruders, crushers, chippers, and other machinery where an unexpected metal object can cause mechanical damage or an extended production stoppage.
Product Changeovers
The 40 product-type memory locations are particularly relevant where a production line runs different materials or products. Instead of rebuilding the detection setup from scratch for every product, the evaluator can retain multiple product-specific configurations.
Legacy Inspection-System Maintenance
A failed can become a disproportionately difficult maintenance problem when the surrounding search coil and machine interface remain serviceable but the evaluator is no longer readily available through normal production channels.
For this type of equipment, keeping a tested spare is often more useful than attempting to redesign the detection architecture during an unplanned shutdown.
QA & Live Testing SOP
A proper test should demonstrate detection functionality, not merely confirm that the display powers up.
1. Identity Verification
- Confirm Sartorius manufacturer marking.
- Confirm model designation.
- Record serial number and hardware revision.
- Photograph the complete nameplate.
- Compare connector arrangement against the installed unit.
2. Physical Inspection
- Inspect the enclosure for impact damage.
- Check terminals and connectors for corrosion or mechanical damage.
- Inspect the operator interface and adjustment controls.
- Look for evidence of previous repair or component replacement.
- Inspect internal electronics where access is permitted by the service procedure.
3. Power-Up Test
Using a controlled test setup:
- Apply the verified supply voltage specified for the actual unit.
- Confirm normal startup.
- Verify menu navigation.
- Check the display and operator controls.
- Confirm that the continuous self-test does not report an abnormal condition.
4. Detection-System Test
Connect the to a compatible MDB search-coil arrangement.
Verify:
- Search-coil recognition/operation
- Detection response
- Phase adjustment
- Channel behavior
- Alarm response
- Internal diagnostics
- Repeatability with controlled test pieces
The test should use known reference samples appropriate to the installed detector. A generic metal object is not an adequate substitute for a controlled test standard when evaluating detection performance.
5. Product-Memory Test
Where the configuration supports product profiles, verify that representative product-type parameters can be stored and recalled correctly. The published documentation specifies 40 product-type memory locations.
6. Packaging
- Use ESD-safe packaging around electronic assemblies.
- Protect connectors and operator controls.
- Prevent shock loading during transport.
- Keep the unit dry and free from conductive contamination.
Field Engineer’s Pitfall Guide
❗ Do not substitute MDB-5E simply because both units belong to the MDB family. MDB-5E is the economical single-channel evaluator; is the multi-channel premium evaluator with flexible phase adjustment, menu operation, continuous self-test, and 40 product memories.
❗ Do not assume “40 memories” means 40 physical detection channels. The 40 figure refers to product-type memory locations, not the number of detector inputs.
❗ Verify the search-coil configuration. The evaluator is part of a complete metal-detection system. A replacement evaluator must be matched to the installed search-coil and machine configuration.
❗ Do not judge a replacement only by startup behavior. A unit can boot normally while having a problem in signal evaluation, phase adjustment, channel handling, or field interfaces.
❗ Check stored product parameters after replacement. If the machine relies on product-specific detection settings, confirm that the required profiles are present or properly restored before returning the line to production.
Intent-Driven FAQ
What is Sartorius ?
is a Sartorius electronic evaluator for the MDB industrial metal-detector family. It uses multi-channel technology and microprocessor-oriented processing, with menu-driven operation and flexible phase adjustment.
What is the difference between and MDB-5E?
is the multi-channel premium evaluator. MDB-5E is the more economical single-channel model with manual phase adjustment and simpler function-key operation. adds features including flexible phase adjustment, menu operation, continuous self-test, and 40 product-type memory locations.
How many product configurations can store?
Sartorius documentation specifies 40 product-type memory locations. These are stored product configurations, not 40 physical detector channels.
Does have self-diagnostics?
Yes. The published specification identifies continuous self-test and advanced internal function control as features of the .
What industries use MDB metal detectors?
Sartorius documentation lists applications in chemicals, plastics, recycling, rubber, wood, textiles, nonmetallic minerals, power generation, mining, tobacco, clay, and food processing. The systems can be used both for product inspection and for protecting expensive processing equipment.
Is a search coil?
No. is the electronic evaluator. The complete system also uses an appropriate MDB search coil, such as the documented MDB-C, MDB-R, MDB-D, MDB-US/MDB-UB, MDB-DL, or MDB-DH configurations depending on the application.
What should I verify before buying a replacement ?
Verify the complete Sartorius nameplate, hardware revision, search-coil type, machine interface, stored product configuration requirements, and physical connector arrangement. For legacy equipment, request photographs of the actual unit and compare its identification markings with the installed evaluator before purchasing.
