Conductive Level Measurement

Conductive Level Measurement

Endress+Hauser’s conductive level portfolio provides simple, safe point‑level detection in water‑based, conductive liquids by measuring the change in resistance between an electrode and a counter‑electrode (often the tank wall). The Liquipoint family spans compact hygienic probes and multi‑point rod/rope electrodes, enabling overflow prevention, minimum‑inventory alarms, and pump control with minimal instrumentation. All three devices are in the Fundamental FLEX tier for straightforward selection and low lifecycle cost.

Liquipoint FTW33 is a very compact, flush‑mounted probe for liquids and pastes, developed for food & beverage yet broadly applicable. The flush face supports pigging and hygienic design; the device is CIP/SIP capable to 150 °C for 1-hour and operates from vacuum to 25 bar. It switches reliably in media with conductivity > 1 µS/cm or dielectric constant > 2, offers IO‑Link for simple configuration/integration, and uses active build‑up compensation to remain dependable on sticky product.

Where multiple switch points are required through a single nozzle, Liquipoint FTW31 (rod) and FTW32 (rope) provide true multipoint detection, up to five distinct levels per process connection. FTW31 covers 0.1–4 m insertion lengths; FTW32 extends to 0.25–15 m for tall tanks and sumps. Both require only 10 µS/cm minimum conductivity, operate to 10 bar, and cover −40…+100 °C (FTW31) or −40…+70 °C (FTW32). Typical duties include overfill prevention, dry‑run protection, and two‑point pump control; WHG and international Ex approvals are available.

The conductive principle brings attractive economics and robustness: no calibration for standard water‑based media, no moving parts to wear, and very simple instrumentation. A single probe can handle multiple thresholds, reducing the number of nozzles and leak points. Commissioning is quick, devices are factory‑set for common conductivities, and maintenance is minimal because there are no floats, diaphragms, or vibrating elements to foul or drift.

Typical applications span storage, process, and utility vessels wherever the liquid is sufficiently conductive: CIP caustic/acid tanks, cooling‑water sumps, neutralization basins, and general pump protection. FTW33’s hygienic design, foam detection/blanking, and flush face make it especially effective in food & beverage mixing vessels, fillers, and piggable lines. FTW31/FTW32 excel in tall tanks and pits needing multi‑level alarms from a single nozzle, simplifying installation and wiring while preserving safety margins.

Vector, your Authorized Endress+Hauser Representative