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The significance of the gear mechanism is not to be underestimated. Many a “simple” type of component can soon become a problem if it’s not working reliably. In situations where level monitoring is required, costly events such as over filling of the silo can be avoided. Sensors have to be designed with a high degree of compatibility for processes, so that they can be seamlessly integrated into installations ensuring the optimal solution.

All-rounder single rod probe

We are often asked whether there is one measurement principle, which works reliably in all bulk solids applications? Is there one sensor that can cope with low bulk density, bridging, caking, abrasiveness, corrosion, high tension and leverage forces, high and low process temperatures and pressures, low and fluctuating dielectric value as well as being able to offer a short reaction time? To date, the answer to this question has been “no”, there has not been any one measuring principle to solve all challenges in all applications. Therefore, UWT decided to enhance their portfolio with a capacitive sensor that is able to offer a solution for any challenge. The RFnivo® RF 3000 is the new capacitive level switch for bulk solids and is used as overfill protection as well as a demand or empty detector in process or storage containers. So what does this level limit switch offer in addition to the other sensors?

The RFnivo® is a single-rod probe which has been designed to detect bulk solid materials without the use of temperature-limiting components. He is available in stainless steel grade 1.4301 (303) to 1.4404 (316L), with PPS or ceramic insulators and optional Teflon® seals. Whilst the RF probe with ceramic insulators can cope with extreme process temperatures up to +500°C it is worth pointing out that the standard version with PPS insulators can handle temperatures up to +240°C. and is suitable for use in containers with overpressure of up to 25bar. The heavy duty version of the RF 3000 boasts a very high torque of 525Nm and tensile forces of up to 40kN. The electronics is the heart of the RFnivo®. The electronics guarantee a very high sensitivity when used with the correlating length of single-rod probe. Bulk materials can be detected from a dielectric value of 1.5 and more which covers most bulk materials.

Easy calibration - Keep it simple for the operator to prevent errors
The universal voltage electronic is equipped with a clear display and 3 buttons and provides a DPDT signal for signal analysis. During the entire operation the live capacitive measurement data is shown on the display. Parameters such as FSH and FSL as well as the response time of the signal output are easily set up using the Quick Start Menu. A test button allows the manual start of the self-diagnosis program of the probe. It is also possible to set up automatic self-diagnosis which regularly checks the proper functioning of the RFnivo® and activates the failsafe in case of an error. The self-diagnosis is performed in the background without affecting the function of the probe in use.

There are a variety of electronics that sometimes require a lot of experience of the operator, in order to be able to just take in function. The calibration is performed often ”blind” or by feeling. This mis-calibrated equipment may cause malfunction in the process. The RFnivo® shows the operator the capacity, which is measured by the probe and displays on the screen if the calibration is done successfully or not. The calibrated set value in pF can be easily retrieved from the Diagnostics Menu.