Rotary paddle vs electronic point detection for solids

Bulk solids do not behave like a flat liquid

A powder or granule surface can slope, bridge or form a cavity. Material may cover the sensor locally while a vessel is largely empty, or leave a void around a poorly placed sensor while the vessel is filling. The installation position and material flow pattern are fundamental for both technologies.

Compare mechanical and sensing limits

A paddle assembly has moving parts and must suit the material load. An electronic point switch has no rotating paddle, but its tip and connection still have mechanical limits. Check abrasive particles, falling product impact and compaction. Do not place a compact sensor in a direct filling stream without a suitable engineering review.

Use representative test conditions

A bag of dry granules poured over a bench sensor does not reproduce a silo. Include moisture variation, fines, packing density and the expected empty state. For combustible dust, identify the area classification and approved configuration separately; an industrial sample sensor is not evidence of dust approval.

What to confirm for your application

• Bulk density and moisture range
• Bridging, ratholing and filling stream
• Mechanical and abrasive loads
• Expected residue around the tip
• Dust-area requirements