A level controller is an integral part of an industrial automation system. You can use level controllers to monitor, regulate and control liquid or solid levels in a tank or a vessel.

Level controllers come in different types such as limit level controllers, linear level controllers and advanced or non-linear controllers. Different industries that extensively use the level controllers are oil and gas, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, automotives and chemicals.

Some important parameters you must consider before buying a level controller are:

1. Type of fluid flowing through the system
2. Number of input and output parameters
3. Sensitivity and accuracy of the level controller
4. Requirement of user interface
5. Requirement of any additional features

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

Buy a level controller from reliable manufacturers

Once you identify your requirements, evaluate different level controllers available in the market. You can look for suppliers that provide a typical class of level controlling equipment. For example, if you want to buy oil level controllers, check out the products offered by reputable liquid level controller manufacturers.

I recommend: You can buy tank level controllers at SJE-Rhombus, a reputable water level controller manufacturer. Arjay Engineering offers level controllers that you can use for liquid and solid applications. PGK is another manufacturer that provides liquid level controllers with range up to 58 inches. For water level control devices, check out the products offered by Taco Electronic Controls. Additionally, you can also evaluate electrical liquid level controllers offered by DEVAR.

Buy a level controller from distributors or retailers

You can compare different level controllers based on the features and prices at distributors or retailers' websites.

I recommend: McIntosh Controls supplies level controllers for leading manufacturers including Gems Sensors, Warrick Controls and Princo. You can also buy level controllers at Pump Engineering Company, a reputable distributor serving industrial fluid handling companies. Airmatic is another industrial distributor that supplies level sensors, probes and controlling equipment.

Buy a specialty or customized level controller

If standard level controllers available in market do not meet your requirements, then opt for specialty or customized level controllers. Ensure that you perform a cost-value analysis before you buy a customized level controller. For example, you can use an ultrasonic level controller for applications with corrosive fluids.

I recommend: Gems Sensors & Controls is an international supplier that designs and manufactures level controllers as per customers’ requirements. In addition to its broad array of standard products, Emerson Process Management can provide customized level controllers. Migatron, a reputable manufacturer of sensing and controlling equipment, supplies ultrasonic detection and control applications. Senix is another manufacturer which supplies ultrasonic sensors.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Ensure proper battery backup and cable connections for an electronic liquid level control equipment.
• •  Install proper accessories such as seals and gaskets along with your level controllers.