Level measurements: non-contact sensors mounted outside vessel

Paul Boughton
Sensortechnics' CLC series non-contact capacitive sensor can continuously measure the fill level of liquids as well as granular or pulverised materials. The miniature sensor can be easily mounted to the outside of a container or vessel and is able to measure through almost any non-metallic wall material. The level sensing range of the standard device is up to 100mm, which can be increased in special multi-sensor configurations.

The non-invasive design, which has no contact between the sensor and the fluid, eliminates all media compatibility and sterility issues. The device is highly flexible and users can easily calibrate the sensor in terms of the levels and media. CLC sensors achieve a very high measurement accuracy and reliability due to an additional reference electrode that compensates for all changes in ambient environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. As an optional safety feature the sensor can be supplied with an extra sensing pad to detect if a container is actually present or not. The CLC sensor offers an analogue voltage output as well as a digital interface. Sensortechnics can also modify the capacitive level sensor based on customer-specific requirements.

Due to its new, continuous and contact-free technology Sensortechnics' CLC capacitive sensor can be used in many level monitoring applications within medical technology, chemical and pharmaceutical industries, as well as biotechnology and food and beverage.

For more information, visit www.sensortechnics.com/clc