Point Level Measurement Sensors Provide Reliable Overflow Prevention

For applications that require simple, level control or alarms, Branom Instrument Co. stocks point level switches from some of the industry’s most trusted manufacturers. We offer floats, paddle switches, capacitance probes, vibrating tuning forks and more that can be used in conjunction with controls or alarms to prevent overflows and runouts in vessels of all sizes. 

Capacitance Probe Switches

Capacitance probe switches are rod-shaped sensors that provide point level measurement of liquids, slurries, and pastes. Once installed, the sensors and vessel serve as the two electrodes that form a capacitor, and the media inside the vessel represents the dielectric. The radio frequency signals produced by the capacitance point level switch calculate changes in current and transmit them as an output signal.

Most capacitance point level switches are made of stainless steel and can withstand high temperatures and corrosive environments, making them ideal for use in chemical applications. Branom offers capacitance probe switches in several options from KROHNE and Gems.  

Mechanical Floats

Mechanical float switches are mechanically actuated float sensors used for point level measurement of corrosive and non-corrosive liquids and slurries. When fluid levels rise to a specified level, the mechanical float switch may automatically trigger a pump or valve that remains on until the fluid returns to the desired level.

The sensors are often installed at two different levels to prevent overflow in the event the first pump fails. Mechanical float switches are commonly used for point level measurement of water and wastewater. Our inventory includes corrosion-resistant mechanical floats from Gems and Dwyer.  

Single & Multi-Point Level Switches

Single point level float switches detect the level of a single liquid contained in a tank or vessel. These switches are horizontally or vertically mounted and actuate once the fluid reaches a certain level.

Use single point level switches in applications where you only need to monitor one fluid level. Multi-point float level switches allow you to track and measure multiple fluid points within the same tank or vessel. You can also use multi-point switches to simultaneously measure two or more liquids with different specific gravities contained in the same tank, or for differential level control. We offer low maintenance point level switches from Gems, Dwyer, and Flowline.  

Rotating Paddle Switches

Rotary paddle switches are constructed of a low-speed motor with a paddle wheel and are used for point level measurement of dry bulk solids. They can be installed horizontally, vertically, or at the base of a vessel and can be used for single or multi-point level measurement.

The rotary paddle switch unit operates using a self-powered motor and shaft that causes the paddle to rotate continuously. When a solid material contacts the paddle, it causes it to stop moving, triggering the sensor to indicate a specific level was reached. As the silo or vessel empties, the paddle begins rotating again.

This type of point level switch is best for use with pelletized, granular, and powdered media. Our inventory includes rotating paddle switches from Bindicator, Dwyer, and UWT.   

Vibrating Tuning Fork Switches

Vibrating tuning fork switches are point level switches designed based on the vibrating tuning fork principle. These instruments take point level measurement of solids and liquids and can be used in high static bulk powder environments.

To provide point level measurement readings, the vibrating tuning fork level switch is positioned inside a tank at a specified level. Voltage is then applied to the tuning fork to create a frequency that produces oscillations of the fork. The frequency then changes when the vibrating tuning fork contacts a liquid or solid. These changes are read by the sensor and converted into switching signals that trigger a high- or low-level alarm, display or control.

Branom provides vibrating tuning fork switches from KROHNE, Dwyer, and Bindicator.

Request a Quote for Point Level Switches and Accessories

We maintain a huge, in-stock inventory and offer startup, calibration, and other technical services or all our point level control and monitoring equipment. Contact us today to learn more about point level measurement solutions.