Compatible process liquids in transfer lines, balance tanks and pump feed systems
What the sensor needs to do
Liquid covering a sensor is not proof of flow, adequate suction pressure or acceptable pump operating conditions.
| Location | Control objective | Selection focus |
|---|---|---|
| Pump inlet piping | A local dry/wet process input. | Position the tip where drainage is representative. |
| Low tank level | A permissive related to available liquid. | Allow enough time and volume before suction becomes unacceptable. |
| Intermittent transfer | A defined empty-pipe indication. | Account for air slugs, startup filling and trapped liquid. |
Installation and integration
Review the location with the process designer and pump supplier. Avoid a low pocket that stays flooded after the usable suction path empties. Include the sensor response, PLC cycle, configured delays and actuator stopping behavior in the timing assessment.
A representative test plan
Observe the real sequence during controlled drain-down and refill. Compare the local sensor state with independent evidence of the process condition. Test the complete control chain through the PLC to the final response; checking the LED alone leaves most of the chain unverified.
A common selection mistake
Advertising a single standard point switch as a complete certified dry-run or overfill safety system. The protection function depends on the full design and its required integrity.
What to include in your inquiry
- Pump duty, flow and minimum acceptable suction condition
- Tank/pipe layout with proposed sensor position
- Start, stop and restart logic
- Response time, delays and required protection standard
Choose a starting point
Review Lisen electronic point switches for a configured industrial package or Baumer CleverLevel families for a documented manufacturer selection. Selection depends on the exact medium, configuration and duty. A family name alone is insufficient to approve the application.
Technical references
Lisen technical reference — English summary of the supplied 2024-11-25 manual ↗
Baumer — CleverLevel point level sensor portfolio (reviewed 2026-10-03) ↗
Family information and engineering guidance are a starting point. Confirm the exact order-code documentation and installation requirements.