Chemical level sensor

Many applications will require a chemical level sensor over your generic level sensor designed for water or non-corrosive applications. Many do not realize what sets aside these two different level sensors and why they should select a chemical level sensor regardless of how corrosive the chemical is.

What sets aside a chemical level sensor from the generic level sensor is mainly the materials of construction and functionality of the level sensor itself. The chemical level sensor will generally be constructed of PVDF Kynar or another chemically inert material. Even if the chemical level sensor is never in contact with the media, there may be fumes or vapors present that would attack even the non-wetted materials on the chemical level sensor. Many operators overlook the fact that the chemical level sensor should be corrosion resistant even if the chemical level sensor is never in contact with the media. The level sensor manufactured for water and non-corrosive medias will generally be manufactured in metal. The metal will corrode and this is why you must be careful when selecting a chemical level sensor.

Next up is selecting the correct output signal for the chemical level sensor, this is dependent on if it is a new or existing application. For existing chemical level sensor applications, you will have to look at the communication input on the PLC, remote display, or VFD / valve. This will dictate which chemical level sensor output you will have to choose. For example, if the PLC has a 4-20mA input, then you must choose a chemical level sensor with a 4-20mA output. This is the only way the chemical level sensor will be able to communicate with the PLC. Now when you have a new installation for a chemical level sensor you can choose from any output as long as you select a PLC or display with the same input. The most common outputs for a chemical level sensor are 4-20mA, 0-5V or 0-10V. It is very rare that a chemical level sensor would have an output that varies from one of these options. 

Another very important feature to pay attention to when selecting a chemical level sensor is the IP rating on the enclosure or housing. The IP rating allows the operator to know what environment the chemical level sensor will hold up in. For example, if your chemical level sensor carries an IP65 rating or NEMA 4X enclosure, he will have the ability to install in an outdoor application. The IP65 housing will prevent any moisture or liquid from entering the electronics and damaging the internals of your chemical level sensor. Also you will want to ensure that your chemical level sensor carries the electrical approvals that you require to sell into your market. Whether that is Class 1 Division 1 explosion proof rating, or a CSA Canadian standards rating. If an inspector were to stop by your plant and you have a product that is not certified than you will have to remove it and you may receive a fine.

Our more products: Liquid Level Sensor, Level Sensor