Fill level sensor HYDROCONT® B4

The HYDROCONT® B4 hydrostatic level sensor with integrated analog evaluation electronics is used for continuous measurement of levels, e.g., in reservoirs, sewage treatment tanks, deep wells, etc.

Variants with process connections are also available. This allows the sensor to be screwed in or installed in hygienic sleeves. This application is particularly suitable for locations where, for example, the outside of the container can be flooded, or in places where environmental conditions are very harsh.
The ability to combine different materials for process connections and seals means that the level probe can be designed for a wide range of filling media, including aggressive ones. Signal evaluation and conversion is performed by 4 to 20 mA 2-wire electronics.
In addition to level measurement, this sensor also records the temperature of the medium via a Pt100 resistance integrated in the sensor.
To ensure safe operation, especially outdoors, the HYDROCONT® B4 has integrated overvoltage protection, which is designed as coarse and fine protection.

Function

The sensor of the HYDROCONT® B4 level measurement system is lowered into the medium as a suspended sensor via the support cable and a suitable fastening, e.g., rope clamp, screw plug, or connection housing. Alternatively, the sensor can also be installed directly in the wall of a medium container using a suitable process connection.
The medium is in direct contact with the ceramic membrane without the use of a pressure transmitter fluid and causes a deflection there due to the hydrostatic pressure of the medium. At its maximum deflection, the membrane rests on a robust ceramic carrier and can thus withstand up to 40 times overload without negative effects, e.g., for a sensor with a pressure range of 0 to 100 mbar. The ceramic diaphragm picks up the pressure signal proportional to the level. The integrated analog electronics detect this signal and convert it into an output current signal of 4 to 20 mA or into a pulse frequency modulated (PFM) current signal of 90 to 520 Hz. The measuring signal range is factory-set and cannot be changed by the user. Therefore, many different standard measuring ranges are available. However, factory calibration can also be carried out according to separate customer specifications.

The output signal can be dampened with an optional damping device, e.g. to compensate for wave movements caused by agitators. When ordering, please specify whether you require signal damping.
A temperature-dependent Pt-100 resistor can be integrated into the sensor using 3-wire technology. This temperature measuring resistor allows the temperature of the filling material to be measured in parallel with the level measurement, while suppressing the line resistance. Optionally, a Pt-100 transmitter can be integrated into the wall-mounted housing, which is calibrated according to customer specifications.

The electronics of the HYDROCONT® B4 hydrostatic level sensor can be optionally equipped with integrated overvoltage protection. This prevents damage to the measuring system, e.g. due to atmospheric influences.