Level switch measures and monitors the level of liquid or powder in tanks or vessels. Level switches are an important part of industrial automation systems. Depending on the application, you can use level switches as an alarm system, a measuring device or a control device. Industries that use level switches are pharmaceutical, food, beverages, oil and gas, petrochemical, mining and automotive.

Level switches use different sensing technologies including differential pressure, ultrasonic, microwave, electrical conductivity or resistance and radio frequency. Depending on the application, you can use different types of level switches. For example, for wastewater or highly viscous fluids, use an air bubbler liquid level switch. For high temperature fluids, use a vibrating tuning fork liquid level switch.

Some important parameters you must consider before you buy a level switch are:

1. Operating environment of level switch
2. Measuring range
3. Maximum AC and DC voltage rating of the level switches
4. Corrosion compatibility of level switch material with the raw material
5. Expected life of the level switch

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

Buy dry material level switches from a reputable level switches manufacturer

For materials like cement, plastics, fly ash, powders, grain and sand, use dry material level switches.

I recommend: Siemens Energy and Automation, a global engineering and automation solutions provider, can supply industrial level switches for variety of bulk solids. Princo Instruments is another reputable industrial level switch manufacturer that offers level switches for materials including explosives, chemicals, grains and plastics.

Buy liquid level switches from reputable level switches manufacturer

For industries like oil and gas, waste-management and food and beverage, liquid level switches are an integral part of process automation.

I recommend: KROHNE, a global level switch manufacturer, can provide you liquid level switches that use various principles and technologies such as radar, ultrasonic and electromagnetic waves. You can buy a continuous level switch, a float level switch and a water level switch from Gems Sensors & Controls. Honeywell Sensing and Control is another reputable level switches supplier catering to industries like automotive, food processing and oil and gas.

Buy level switches from reputable level switches distributor or retailer

Compare different level switches based on their features and prices at distributors or retailers' websites. You can ask for a discount if you are buying in bulk.

I recommend: Corrosion Resistant Technologies, a reputable supplier of tanks, vessels, agitators and accessories, offers cost effective level switches. Ryan Herco Products is another distributor of filtration and fluid handling products that provides level control devices including level switches.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Consult an expert for the proper installation of level switches, to ensure accurate measurements.