Vibrating Level Switch
Many industrial use applications call for the use of point level sensors to detect the level of media in a storage tank, silo, or hopper. There are a number of different point level measurement solutions to suit all of the use applications, media qualities, and environmental conditions. If you are looking to measure bulk solids or powders, particularly those that weigh less than one pound per cubic foot, you may be considering the use of a vibrating level switch. If you are not familiar with this technology, you may be wondering, “What is a vibrating level switch? How does a vibrating level switch work? What are the use applications of vibrating level switches? And, How do I choose the best vibrating level switch?” This guide answers all of these questions and more.
What is a vibrating level switch?
A vibrating level switch is an instrument that vibrates to collect a reliable point level measurement of powders as light as less than one pound per cubic foot and bulk solids. A vibrating fork level switch consists of an electronic detector circuit and a rod or fork that inserts into a hopper or silo. The fork or rod vibrates and when it comes in contact with a solid or powder material, the vibration changes and the monitor creates an alert. Vibrating level switches can serve as low-level indicators or overfill protection devices. A major advantage of vibrating level switches is that they are resilient - they are virtually unaffected by flow, foam, bubbles, variation, and other properties of the material.
How does a vibrating level switch work?
To understand how vibrating level switches work, it is helpful to understand installation guidelines and operating principles.
Vibrating level switches are installed into hoppers or silos at the top and/or bottom of the vessel. The level switch needs to be handled with great care and mounted with the rod or fork at the height of the desired level point. Extended vibrating level switches that generate low level alarms need to be mounted above the outlet of the vessel to prevent the outflowing material from pulling on the probe. Side mounted vibrating level switches need to be installed at an angle.
An excited piezoelectric crystal at the base of the outer rod converts electrical energy to mechanical, vibratory energy. As it does so, the inner and outer roads vibrate at a frequency of around 350 Hz. WHen the probe comes into contact with the media, the vibration is dampened. The electronics in the vibrating level switch detect the attenuation of vibration and reflect this information in the state of the relay.
Applications of a Vibrating Level Switch
Vibrating level switches are ideal for measuring media that is incompatible with other point level measurement technologies due to foam, bubbles, pressure, buildup, temperature, conductivity, and temperature. They are commonly used in silos and hoppers for overfill protection, high and low point level alarms, high-temperature applications, pump control, and limit detection. It is important to note that vibrating level switches are not suitable for measuring highly viscous materials.
How to Choose the Best Vibrating Level Switch
Not all point level measurement tools are the same, and not all vibrating level switches meet the same standards. The use applications are commonly high-stakes, industrial settings, so it is important that you know what you are looking for when shopping for a vibrating level switch. The best vibrating level switch meets the following criteria:
- Single rod design that eliminates clogging
- A self-clean cycle with a polished probe to avoid solids buildup
- Adjustable sensitivity to detect a variety of solid materials ranging from light powders to heavy granular materials
- Extendable rigid probe
- Extendable flexible lengths
If the vibrating level switch has two forks, build up between the two forks might cause them to be connected. Connection between the two forks results in measurement disruptions and inaccuracies. If the vibrating level switch does not have a self-cleaning mechanism, there is a risk of material build up. Furthermore, it is important to purchase a vibrating level switch made by a reputable manufacturer and sold by a trusted supplier who carefully vets products.
TechStar is a trusted manufacturing representative for instrumentation, automation, and analytical products, service and training. TechStar carries Solitel® Vibrating Rod Level Switches that provide reliable level detection of powders and bulk solids with densities of less than one pound per cubic foot. This compact, integral switch is suitable for high- or low-level detection in hoppers or silos and plugged chute detection.
To acquire this high-quality vibrating level switch for your point level measurement needs, visit TechStar today.