Level Detection of Powder & Bulk Solids

Level detection applications are one of the most interesting things we do at Dwyer; as there are so many types of switch technologies. Even just for powder and bulk level detection, there are many ways to sense the level. With the release of the Proximity Controls TFLS, Tuning Fork Level Switch, and LTS, Level Tilt Switch, Dwyer now offers five different technologies for powder and bulk solids point level detection. These are: Diaphragm, Paddle, Tilt, Capacitive, and Vibration. So a question you may have is: How do I know which technology to use for my application? Here is a simple guide to help you select the proper technology.

Diaphragm Switches

The oldest and simplest technology is diaphragm switches. These switches are installed in the side wall of the vessel from the outside using a flange or are installed from the top of the vessel by being suspended on a pipe. The switch actuates as the material height increases in the vessel and the weight of the product presses against the diaphragm. When the material level decreases past the diaphragm the switch reverts to its normal state.

The Ultra Mag™ is Proximity Control’s Diaphragm Level Switch Series. The Series offers the patented feature of being magnetically actuated sealing the electrical compartment from the process material reducing maintenance, improving sensitivity, and making the unit very reliable.

Advantages: The units are flush and do not have a probe that extends into the vessel. Where a probe or paddle from other types of sensors can be easily broken off, this makes them very well suited for materials that are heavy, flowing, or has a large particle size. They also do not require calibration or a power supply.

Disadvantages: They are pressure sensitive; so a breathable diaphragm or venting must be used for applications with pressurized vessels. They are also a mechanical device with a diaphragm that will wear with use over time.

Paddle Level Switches

Paddle switches are the most common way to detect powder and bulk level. This type of switch is also installed in the side wall of the vessel from the outside using a flange or installed on the top of the vessel with an extension pipe. These units incorporate a motor that rotates a paddle inside the vessel. As the material height increases in the vessel covering the paddle the weight of the material stops the paddle from rotating, turns off the motor, and actuates the switch. When the material level decreases past the paddle a spring starts the motor again and the switch reverts to its normal state.

The PLS is Proximity Control’s Paddle Level Switch Series. The Series offers the feature of incorporating a magnetic linkage, which seals the electrical compartment from the process material reducing maintenance and increasing reliability. As well, the magnetic drive creates a non-mechanical slip clutch that prevents damage to the motor and drive mechanism from sudden or excessive loading on the paddle. Also featured is an external switch indication.

Advantages: This is a low cost technology. They are easy to use as there are no electronic calibrations needed for the application and they are versatile in application usage.

Disadvantages: They are mechanical and the motor will wear with use, it will not work with very light materials, and the unit must be purchased according to the power supply being used.

Tilt Level Switches

Tilt level switches are used for high level indication as they are installed suspended on a cable or chain above the material being sensed. As the material height increases and comes in contact with the probe the material pushes the probe to the side and tilts it. When the probe is tilted at approximately 25 degrees a ball on the inside rolls off the contact and actuates the switch. When the material level decreases the probe falls back to being vertical and the switch reverts to its normal state.

The LTS is Proximity Control’s Tilt Level Switch Series. The Series offers a switch contact that is mercury free and comes in steel or 316 SS.

Advantages: This technology is very advantageous for open storage applications where it would not be possible to mount a fixed sensor. They are also very good for large particulate materials.

Disadvantage: They are mechanical and will wear, will only work for heavy products, and are mounting specific.

Capacitive Level Switches

Capacitive level switches are very good for a wide variety of applications as they can be used for liquids and powder and bulk solids. This type of switch can be installed in any position and the probe can be shortened or lengthened to almost any measurement needed. Capacitive level sensors determine the level of material by changes in probe capacitance resulting from the movement of dielectric materials between the probe and the reference ground, such as a tank wall. As material height increases and comes in contact with the probe the capacitance changes from the normal calibrated state and the switch actuates. When the material level decreases the probe again senses the capacitive change and the switch reverts to its normal state.

The CLS2 is Proximity Control’s second generation Capacitive Level Switch Series. The Series offers the features of: automatic calibration, universal power supply, coat guard, external switch indication, and a failsafe setting.

Advantages: They are non-mechanical so there are no parts to wear, jam, break, or need routine maintenance. This technology is very good for coating materials as it is immune to product build up on the probe. They are also good for high pressure vessels and when the bulk density can change.

Disadvantages: They have to be calibrated for the application and can be thrown off by different dielectric materials in one vessel if not calibrated properly.

Vibration Level Switches

Vibration level switches are very sensitive and very good for light materials. This type of switch is installed in the side wall of the vessel from the outside or installed on the top of the vessel with an extension pipe. Tuning fork level switches incorporate a piezoelectric crystal that vibrates the fork at its natural frequency. As material height increases the fork comes in contact with the material dampening the vibration and actuating the switch. When the material level decreases the fork becomes free of material and the switch reverts to its normal state.

The TFLS is Proximity Control’s Tuning Fork Level Switch. The Series offers the features of: universal power supply, external switch indication, adjustable sensitivity, and a failsafe setting.

Advantages: Vibration switches do not need to be calibrated for dielectric constant or bulk density making installation and set up easy. They are ideal for light powders sensing lower than any of the other technologies, down to 1.8 lb/cu ft (30 g/l).

Disadvantages: They are not good for coating applications, the probe can be physically damaged resulting in the unit not functioning, and this is the most expensive technology.

This is a simple guide and selection, of the proper technology, depends on many factors including material properties: flowability, abrasiveness, chemical compatibility, temperature, particle size, stickiness, etc.; and application properties: environmental needs (example explosion-proof), pressure of the vessel, location of the sensor, etc. Contact Dwyer if you need more detailed help in selecting a unit for a particular application. Please also request our bulletin the BC-PBLD for an overview of our level sensing technologies for powder and bulk solids.