Methods of physical measurement of various quantities are still relevant in various fields. Instruments for performing measurements in liquid media often provide this principle of operation. Perhaps the simplest of these tools is the buoy (float) level gauges, the readings of which are determined by the position of the sensitive element.
Level gauge construction
Float-operated liquid level measuring systems provide for the presence of two functional elements - this is the already mentioned sensitive element and the signal processing device. Therefore, the second name of such devices is signaling devices. The float may be made of wood or plastic materials, but as a rule, there is a magnet inside it. On the other hand, the float is in a small tube, inside of which it makes movements. As for the second component of the system, the float level gauges are provided with devices that fix and register the signal. In the simplest versions, this is a small display with basic information about the liquid level, and premium models are provided by control panels with several functions for processing incoming information. For example, the control panel can be connected to a central controller in the enterprise, which, based on the received data, will automatically send a signal to the capacitance filling the measurement medium.
Principle of operation
During operation, the float acts as a sensor. Its measured level as it moves is adjusted depending on the filling or emptying of the liquid. A discrete signal is generated, thanks to which the microcontroller can set specific indicators of the liquid volume. But this is not all the tasks that a float level gauge performs. The principle of operation, based on physical movement in a liquid medium, completely allows the sensor to determine the degree of mixing of the two media. This is a more difficult task, for which floats with sensitive materials on the surface are used. The device is in direct contact with the medium, including chemical indicators. It is important to note that such devices are rarely used in plain water. Usually it is aggressive, food or chemical environments, for operation in which special protective spraying on work surfaces is also provided.
Types of device
There are ordinary float or buoy level gauges, magnetic, bypass and double. In the first case, pulses are generated as a result of the physical swing of the sensor. Magnetic models provide for the connection of the float with a magnet. During operation, these two elements are in interaction and any deviation from it provokes a change in the parameters registered by the controller. For visual observation, a bypass float level meter is located, which is located in the tube with divisions. The user himself can inspect the position of the float, fixing it relative to the scale. As for dual models, they are just designed to register parameters in two environments at the same time. This system provides for the use of interconnected sensors between which an impulse network can be organized.
Reviews on the use of the device
Users primarily praise float sensors for their accuracy and high repeatability. Despite the simple design and the lack of complex technical filling, such devices give decent measurement results. Advantages include advantages in the form of an affordable price and independence of measurements from the chemical state of the liquid. Again, special models of devices are used to evaluate the density, viscosity and other parameters of the medium, but float level gauges specialize specifically in the volume of the medium. Nevertheless, there are also negative reviews. The fact is that the operation of the float may depend on fluctuations in the liquid. Splashing and slight vibrations can distort the readings of the float.
Manufacturers and prices
High-quality models are offered by NivoFlip, producing single and complete solutions for level measurement in liquid media. In its lineup, you can find models with a measurement scale of up to 3500 mm, while the company notes a 10-mm accuracy of the reflection of the result. The competition for this manufacturer is RizurNBK. In her family, magnetic devices are widely represented and qualitatively executed, including with roller bypass indicators. In both cases, a float level gauge is proposed, the price of which varies on average from 1 to 3 thousand rubles. If you need a simple budget device, then you can turn to the products of the Albatros enterprise, which produces models with price tags of about 500-700 rubles. These are quite solid, functional and flexible devices for use for a wide variety of tasks.
Where are float gauges used?
The main areas of use of such devices are in industry. Where it is necessary to constantly monitor the parameters of technical fluids, measuring equipment and instruments are used. In most cases, level gauges are only one of the links for monitoring status along with sensors for viscosity, density, pressure, etc. For example, magnetic float gauges are often used in combination with temperature sensors, since the latter also operate on a magnetic basis - at least this The field is used for signal transmission. Level gauges are also used in the food industry to regulate the state of liquid products.
Conclusion
In choosing a liquid level gauge, you should first determine the principle of operation of the device. Floating models should be preferred in cases where there are requirements for high accuracy, and the target environment will guarantee the absence of vibrations, waves and vibrations during the measurement process. But these are not all the parameters of choice. In the simplest version, a mechanical float level gauge, of course, provides a minimum of possibilities for additional monitoring of the state of the medium being served. However, more productive and technological magnetic versions in the latest models are capable of providing multilateral level indication, signaling at the moment of achievement of specific values and converting the recorded values to a pneumatic unified signal. There are progress in terms of communication. Communication can be supported by the main wire in order to interact with the control panel, but further signal propagation is also organized via wireless channels.