M12 Optical Level Sensor for Food and Beverage Industry
Production Description
Operating Principle
An optical level sensor is used to detect and monitor liquid levels in various applications. This can include industrial processes, water treatment facilities, environmental monitoring, and even consumer products. The sensor works by detecting changes in light as it interacts with liquid, providing real-time level measurements.
Product Specifications Configuration
Model | Non-metal | Metal |
| Sensing Object | Water/Neutral solution/nonviscous solution ofacid or alkali | Acid solution/ Alkali solution |
| Accuracy | ±1mm | ±1mm |
| Power supply | DC10~30V(including voltage ripple of 10%(p-p)max.) | DC10~30V(including voltage ripple of 10%(p-p)max.) |
| Current consumption | 10mA Max(not including the load) | 10mA Max(not including the load) |
| Output | NPN/PNP | NPN/PNP |
| Load current | Max.100mA | Max.100mA |
| Operation mode | 3P:Non switchable; 4P:Selectable Light On or Dark On by control cable | |
| Indicators | Operation：Orange | |
| Circuit protection | Power on delay,power supply reverse polarity protection,output short-circuit protection, output reverse polarity protection | |
| Response time | 1ms、0.25ms | |
| Life expectancy | 100,000（the frequency of opening and closing: 1800 times per hour） | |
| Ambient illumination | Incandescent lamp：Max. 5,000lx/Sunlight：Max. 80,000lx | |
| Ambient humidity | Operation：35 ～ 85 %/Storage： 35%～95%(with no condensation) | |
| Insulation resistance | Min. 20MΩ ( 500VDC ) | |
| Degree of protection | IEC： IP67 | |
Line color definition Weight Material Accessory | 3P Light on：Brown(VDC)、Blue (GND)、Black (OUT)3P Dark on：Brown (VDC)、Blue (GND)、Black (OUT)4P：Brown (VDC)、Blue (GND)、Black (OUT)、White (Mode) Approx. 20G Approx. 80G PA PSF Stainless steel 、glass Nut、Seal ring | |
Product Technical Drawing
Application
These applications illustrate the versatility of optical level sensors, which are widely valued for their accuracy, reliability, and adaptability across a broad spectrum of industries and environments.
1. Industrial Automation and Manufacturing
Optical level sensors are widely used in industrial automation for monitoring and controlling liquid levels in tanks, pipelines, and machinery. They ensure optimal liquid levels in processes like cooling, lubrication, and mixing. In manufacturing, they help prevent overflows, maintain consistent production quality, and reduce downtime by offering real-time level monitoring.
2. Water Treatment and Waste Management
In water treatment plants, optical level sensors monitor the levels of various liquids, including water, chemicals, and waste products. They play a vital role in controlling liquid flows, maintaining safe chemical concentrations, and ensuring environmental compliance. Waste management facilities also use these sensors to monitor and manage hazardous liquids.
3. Food and Beverage Industry
The food and beverage industry relies on optical level sensors to monitor liquid ingredients, maintain hygiene, and prevent contamination. These sensors are commonly used in bottling, brewing, dairy production, and other liquid-processing operations. Since they can be made from materials that meet food safety standards, they’re ideal for environments requiring high hygiene levels.
4. Pharmaceutical and Medical Equipment
In the pharmaceutical and medical fields, precise liquid monitoring is essential. Optical level sensors are used in laboratory equipment, IV drip systems, and dialysis machines to accurately measure and control liquid levels. Their accuracy and non-contact nature help ensure patient safety and product quality in these sensitive applications.
5. Environmental Monitoring
Optical level sensors are used for environmental monitoring in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. They help track water levels, which can aid in flood prevention and water management. Additionally, they’re used in pollution control systems to monitor hazardous liquid levels and trigger alarms when certain thresholds are reached.
6. Oil and Gas Industry
The oil and gas industry requires reliable liquid level monitoring in tanks, pipelines, and offshore facilities. Optical level sensors are used to detect oil, gas, and water levels, ensuring safety and efficiency in extraction, refining, and storage operations. They can withstand harsh environments, making them ideal for rugged applications in this sector.
7. Automotive Industry
In the automotive industry, optical level sensors are used to monitor fluid levels, such as brake fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. These sensors are integrated into vehicles to provide real-time feedback to drivers and alert them when fluid levels are low, enhancing vehicle safety and performance.
8. Aerospace and Defense
Optical level sensors are valuable in aerospace and defense applications, where precise liquid monitoring is crucial. They are used in fuel tanks, hydraulic systems, and other fluid management areas in aircraft and military equipment. Their reliability and accuracy under extreme conditions make them suitable for high-stakes applications.
9. HVAC and Refrigeration Systems
In heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC) systems, optical level sensors monitor refrigerant and water levels. This helps maintain system efficiency, prevent leaks, and ensure proper function, ultimately prolonging the lifespan of HVAC equipment.
10. Consumer Electronics and Appliances
Optical level sensors are commonly found in household and consumer appliances such as coffee makers, humidifiers, and washing machines. These sensors help control water levels, prevent overflows, and contribute to energy efficiency. Their compact design and low power consumption make them suitable for consumer products.
11. Laboratory and Research Equipment
In scientific research and laboratories, optical level sensors help monitor liquid levels in test tubes, beakers, and chemical storage containers. They’re crucial for precise measurements and monitoring in experiments, reducing the risk of contamination and helping scientists maintain accurate data.
12. Marine and Shipbuilding Industry
Optical level sensors are used in the marine industry to monitor fuel, ballast water, and wastewater levels in ships. Accurate monitoring is essential to ensure safe navigation, proper weight distribution, and compliance with environmental regulations on waste disposal.
13. Agriculture and Irrigation
In agriculture, optical level sensors monitor liquid levels in irrigation systems, water storage tanks, and chemical sprayers. They help farmers maintain optimal hydration levels for crops, reducing water waste and improving agricultural efficiency.
