Capacitive Level Switches
Point level detection for liquids, solids, and viscous media can be handled quite well by capacitive level switches. These devices work by detecting changes in capacitance between an electrode (or "probe") and the material to be detected (or "surrounding medium"). When the medium being detected is at a certain level, the switch detects this condition (a change in the electric field caused by the presence of the medium) and sends a signal indicating that this level has been attained. Because they are electrical devices, capacitive level switches can function in a variety of industrial process applications.
Capacitive level switches are frequently employed in tanks, silos, and pipes for dependable point-level detection in applications such as material storage and process control. They are available with many output and electrical connection options to ensure easy integration into existing systems. Thanks to their ability to detect changes in capacitance in both liquids and solids, they are widely used throughout industry, including in chemical processing, food and beverage, and water treatment applications. Capacitive level switches are a cost-effective, reliable solution for a wide range of applications—whether monitoring water-based liquids or the presence of solids.
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More Information about Capacitive Level Switches
Capacitive level switches have no moving parts, which contributes to their reliability and reduces maintenance. With so few parts to wear out, they're just about the least mechanical level switch around. And in environments involving viscous or sticky media, where buildup and clogging can be problems for other kinds of level switches, capacitive switches can keep on working without a hitch. The probes tend to be made out of very tough materials, like stainless steel, and they're not problematic to install.
Transmitters vs Transducers
Some of the most common types of transmitters and transducers can be found on pressure instruments. Examples of these include: drop-in well pressure devices and devices that measure the pressure in a pipe or gas chamber. Transmitters and transducers can also be found on flow and speed measurement devices.
What is the difference between transmitters and transducers?
The main difference is the way they send data to the monitoring device, like a PLC. In terms of measurement, the transmitter will reference a measuring unit by sending a milliamp signal (such as 4-20 mA). A transducer will reference a measuring unit by sending a voltage signal, typically in volts or millivolts.
Why have the two different types of transmission methods?
The method will depend on the application. If the electrical connection in the application travels a short distance, a pressure transducer is the better choice. Pressure transducers are smaller with fewer active electronic components that can be upset by electromagnetic interference. Also, the voltage signals transmitted over longer distances are subject to voltage drop and signal corruption. A transmitter is better for transmitting signals over a long distance.