Paddle Switch Level Measurement

Paddle Switch Level Measurement

Endress+Hauser’s paddle switch level measurement centers on the Soliswitch FTE20, a compact rotary‑paddle point level switch. A synchronous motor drives the paddle; when material covers it, rotation stops and the pivoted drive flips a changeover contact for full/empty or demand alarms. The principle is unaffected by dust or permittivity, needs no calibration, and suits flowing bulk solids up to ~50 mm grain size. A viewing window shows rotation for quick checks, and optional automatic rotation monitoring adds protection.

The E+H FTE20 emphasizes robustness and low cost. Sensitivity is adjusted without tools in three steps to match bulk density; the minimum is 80 g/L. Global Ex approvals (ATEX/IECEx/FM/UKCA/INMETRO) permit dust‑Ex use. Power options include 24 V DC and 24/115/230 V AC with a binary changeover output; optional resistive coupling enables line‑break/short‑circuit monitoring to a repeater. The housing rotates 360° for cable alignment; a shortenable rope extension up to 2 m and hinged paddles help reach setpoints through thick nozzles.

Typical applications span min/max control in silos, day bins, and hoppers; refill requests at cone bottoms; and empty alarms for feeders. Common media include cement, dry plaster, chalk, granulates, grains, sugar, flour, cocoa, animal feed, and wood chips (ρ ≥ 80 g/L).  Standard limits are −20…+80 °C process temperature, up to ~1.5 bar overpressure, and 0.5…2.5 bar absolute; a slip clutch protects the drive from intermittent loads. Approved mounting orientations cover top, side, and bottom entries with shielding from falling material. As part of the Fundamental selection, FTE20 carries a 5‑year warranty.

Vector, your Authorized Endress+Hauser Representative