Posted to News on 31st Mar 2021, 09:05
Level switches are ‘maintenance free’
Lack of moving parts signals increased plant uptime and lower operating costs
The new LI151x-series capacitive level switches from ifm electronic come with no moving parts and so need no maintenance, says the company. The switches are billed as “an ideal replacement for conventional float-type level switches that are prone to mechanical failure and sticking in more viscous media”.
The maintenance-free operation of the switches is also singled out for increasing plant uptime, while reducing operating costs.
Plug-and-play installation
“LI151x level switches are also easy to use – they are pre-programmed for plug-and-play installation with water-based fluids and can be reconfigured in just a few seconds for use with hydraulic and similar oils.” adds ifm electronic.
Four versions of the new switches are offered, with probe lengths from 132 to 737 mm. All types have an integrated temperature sensor, two switching outputs and an IO-Link digital interface.
Users can configure the switching outputs as either two level outputs, or as one level output and one temperature output which, in many applications, is said to save money by eliminating the need for a separate temperature sensor.
Switches configuration
Configuration of the switches can be performed either by using the built-in inductive ‘teach’ button or via the IO-Link connection.
Mooted as suitable for use even in demanding environments, LI151x level switches have an IP 68; 69K ingress protection rating and an operating temperature range of -25 to +85 ºC. The probe diameter is 16 mm. Accessories include mounting clamps, flanges and adaptors, as well as an extensive range of cables pre-terminated with M12 connectors.
