How to specify a level sensor

Baumer supplies a wide range of flexible and economical level sensors for continuous level measurement and point level detection. Boasting high-performance technology, their industrial level sensors deliver fast response times, precise measurements, long-term process stability and easy operation. PIF spoke to the sensor experts to find out how to specify the correct level sensor for any given application.

Baumer’s broad selection of process connections and intelligent adapter systems make their industrial level sensors quick and easy to integrate and configure, protecting process and personnel in equal measure. Choosing the right level sensor for the job largely depends on the following three areas of consideration.

Installation conditions

When it comes to specifying the correct level sensor for your application, there are several installation conditions to consider as part of your purchasing process. These include: the size and shape of the container or pipe within which the sensor will be installed, the measuring heights involved, whether you require contact or non-contact detection, and – crucially – the ease of installation offered by the sensor.

Baumer has an industrial level sensor for all occasions, meeting these criteria head-on.

In level measurement applications involving small containers, Baumer offers a range of ultrasonic distance measuring sensors and miniature sensors. Some of which employ a narrow sonic beam angle for openings up to Ø3 mm, while others weigh in at a mere four grams. Meanwhile, for non-contact-level detection in ascending pipes, they can supply a selection of optical level switches.

Floatless potentiometric level measurement transmitters are ideally suited to small measuring heights down to 0.05 metres and Baumer also offers easy-to-install capacitive proximity sensors that work in direct contact with the media.

Application requirements

Few, if any, industrial applications demand the exact same parameters and requirements. Each one is unique.

Which makes specifying a level sensor that meets your individual application requirements all the more difficult. However, rest assured, Baumer has covered all bases. They have a level measurement solution to suit even the most stringent or niche requirements.

Need a fully autoclavable pressure and level measurement sensor for SIP and CIP sterilisation processes? Look no further than the PBMH autoclavable. Need a level sensor that not only complies with 3-A, FDA and EHEDG standards, but also comes with ATEX approvals to boot? You’ll want one of Baumer’s CleverLevel level switches, featuring frequency sweep technology.

With level sensors offering IO-Link connectivity and integration with the Internet of Things (IoT), Baumer has truly thought of everything!

Media properties

The type of media in operation plays a major role in every level measurement application. Whether you’re dealing with foamy, aggressive or sticky media can make all the difference to your level sensor selection. Once again, Baumer’s engineers have developed numerous sensor options with specific media properties in mind, as well as several models that are entirely media independent helpfully.

Those aptly named CleverLevel switches operate perfectly even in adhering or sticky media, with the LBFH model delivering effective foam detection and suppression. Many of Baumer’s floatless level measurement devices are also adept at handling foamy, viscous and adhering media. Finally, Baumer also boasts a variety of capacitive level switches that are specifically designed for use with aggressive media.

For more information, visit Baumer.