When you start searching for sensors for level detection, it is important to know the difference between a level switch and a level sensor beforehand. There are many different liquid level sensing technologies on the market today, some of which have been developed for decades and have been used in industries such as food and beverage, manufacturing, automobiles and white goods. In this article, we will introduce the main differences and things to consider when choosing a single point level switch and a continuous level sensor.

1. Working principle

Level switch:

A level switch is a device that detects the presence or absence of liquid when the liquid level reaches a predetermined level. In most cases, when the liquid level in the tank or container rises or falls to a certain level, they can act as a switch. This feature is very suitable for sounding alarm applications or making some kind of device. Essentially, the level switch detects when the liquid reaches the desired location to be inspected and outputs a state transition signal to trigger the necessary response.

Level sensor:

When it is necessary to measure every possible intermediate level height value of the tank or container, it is necessary to use a continuous level sensor, also known as continuous level measurement. This means that the sensor will provide feedback regardless of the height of the liquid, so there is no need to set the detection alarm value in advance.

2. Measurement task

Level switch:

Level switches are typically used in applications where a high or low level of a certain level needs to be detected to effectively prevent overflow, drying and leakage.

Level sensor:

A continuous level sensor monitors an exact level height or level, which is ideal for process control that requires improved accuracy and for applications that need to know the level in real time.

3. Environmental factors

In addition to understanding how to distinguish between continuous liquid level sensors and single-point liquid level switches, several environmental factors must be considered before zui can finally determine which type of sensorSuitable for the desired application. Factors include:

· Temperature and pressure:

According to the operating temperature and pressure in the application environment, it can be determined which material and design structure of the liquid level switch and sensor zui are suitable.

· Chemical compatibility:

The type of housing material of the sensor or switch shall be determined according to the liquid medium to be measured. Consideration must be given to whether the liquid medium will accumulate or cover the surface; in most cases, it is better to choose a fixed sensor with no moving parts.

Measurement range:

The depth of the container or tank and the required distance between the liquid surface and the sensor will help determine the appropriate sensor.

• Response or output type:

Different sensors are suitable for different outputs: analog signals, relay signals, digital signals and others.

· Size and shape of water tank:

Extremely wide or narrow tanks and tanks that cannot be installed with sensors on the side, top or bottom will have special requirements. For example, ultrasonic sensors are not suitable for narrow tanks.

4. Types of level sensors and single point level switches

Although most level sensor technologies fall into these two broad categories, continuous level sensors or single-point level switches, there are many different types of devices or equipment to choose from in each category, which can meet countless different applications. Single point level switch such as photoelectric level switch(SSTSensing), horizontal float switch and vertical float switch, etc.; continuous liquid level sensor such as submersible liquid level sensor, ultrasonic liquid level sensor and capacitive liquid level sensor. Our single point level switch products are from the UKSSTThe photoelectric level switch is divided into several series, basic type, digital type, industrial type and industrial glass type. It mainly provides three material types: polysulfone, transparent nylon and stainless steel and glass probe.