Level Sensors

Selecting Contact vs. Non-Contact Detection

Your fluid type and container material determine whether you need direct contact or non-contact sensing. For closed plastic tanks and non-metallic pipes with diameters of 12mm or more, non-contact capacitive sensors stick to the exterior to monitor levels without risk of chemical degradation. For direct contact, mechanical float switches offer simple, reliable operation.

• Non-contact sensors: Use for corrosive chemicals, sterile environments, or high-purity liquids. They operate on 3.3V to 24V DC.
• Contact float switches: Best for direct pump control. Options include horizontal side-mount plastic switches and vertical probes.

Matching Electrical Ratings and Control Outputs

System integration requires matching the sensor's electrical output to your controller or pump. For direct high-power control, mechanical switches like the 220V 20A water level controller handle heavy pump loads without external relays. For PLC and telemetry integration, choose a continuous level transmitter.

• Analog outputs: Probes providing 4-20mA current loop, 0-5V, or 0-10V signals are ideal for continuous level monitoring over distance.
• Digital and switch outputs: Low-voltage capacitive switches (5-24V DC) provide simple high or low states for digital logic or microcontrollers.
• Switching limits: Ensure your circuit does not exceed maximum contact ratings, such as 100V DC switching voltage or 1.0A carry current on compact side-mount float units.