If you have a tank of any sort of liquid that needs monitoring, you want a liquid flow sensor that gives you liquid level measurement as accurately and as automatically as possible. Determining when you need to refill your tank or ration your liquid should not be an arduous task. Fortunately, there is a wide variety of liquid sensors of all different types.

Liquid sensors operate in many different ways, and can be both non-contact ultrasonic measures or full immersion sensors, and automotive liquid level sensor systems may be set up in custom configurations. Here are some options to look for when browsing for liquid flow sensors:

1. Type of sensor. Decide whether you want an ultrasonic, immersion, or buoyant sensor.

2. Automated systems. Find a full sensor system that can give automatic alerts about liquid levels and even refill an empty tank.

3. Custom sensors. Many companies offer to custom build a liquid level sensor to fit your personal needs.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Look through online catalogs of liquid level control sensors

Catalogs are an easy way for you to see many different products at once, but printed copies can be bulky and take to time ship to your office. Look through online catalogs of parts and services, or find a directory of multiple companies that offer the liquid level sensors you need.

I recommend: Register for free with GlobalSpec to search thousands of supplier catalogs that sell liquid level sensors, or use their online part number search if you know the exact part you need but aren't sure where to find it. Search through Digi-Key's online catalog for the liquid flow sensors they have in stock.

Monitor multiple tanks with a single tank level sensor

With an operation requiring many different types of liquids or fuels, it's a pain to have to set up separate flow sensors for each tank and monitor each one individually. Look for liquid flow sensors than can monitor many tanks at once so you have a single source for information on the status of every tank you use.

I recommend: Automated Sonix Corporation's UC-4000 model can monitor the level of up to nine tanks. Install only one control box, and have the option of monitoring your water levels from any computer with an Internet connection.

Have a custom liquid level sensor built just for you

If you find that the standard products in catalogs don't fit your needs, have a supplier build a sensor just for you.

I recommend: Look through Innovative Component's catalog of liquid level sensors, or contact them about creating a custom sensor.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  For easy viewing of liquid levels in your tanks, think about purchasing a liquid level sensor monitor along with the sensor itself