Technical Characteristics and Safety Architecture
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FailSafe SIL3 Design: The FTL80 is unique in its ability to achieve SIL3 functional safety with a single device (1oo1 architecture). This is made possible through permanent self-monitoring and internal redundancy, ensuring that any internal failure is immediately detected and transitioned to a safe state.
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Permanent Self-Monitoring: The device continuously monitors the tuning fork for mechanical damage, corrosion, heavy build-up, or mechanical blocking. This constant “health check” ensures the sensor is always ready to perform its safety function.
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Extended Proof Test Intervals: Due to its advanced internal diagnostics, the FTL80 allows for proof testing intervals of up to 12 years. Tests can be initiated at the press of a button or via a remote signal, significantly reducing maintenance costs and personnel exposure in hazardous zones.
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4-20mA Interface: Following NAMUR NE 06/NE 43 standards, the device integrates seamlessly with the Nivotester FailSafe FTL825 switching unit or directly into a safety PLC. This interface provides clear status signals for “covered,” “free,” and “fault” conditions.
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Second Line of Defense: Like other premium Liquiphant models, it features a gas-tight feedthrough to protect the environment and electronics housing from process media, even if the sensor diaphragm is breached.
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Extreme Process Resilience: Constructed from 316L or Alloy C, the sensor operates reliably in temperatures from -60 to +280°C and pressures up to 100 bar, making it suitable for the most volatile industrial processes.
Technical Specification Matrix
| Feature | Technical Details |
| Measuring Principle | Vibronic (Tuning Fork) |
| Safety Integrity Level | SIL3 (1oo1) |
| Process Temperature | -60 to +280°C (-76 to +540°F) |
| Process Pressure | -1 to +100 bar (-14.5 to +1,450 psi) |
| Sensor Material | 316L Stainless Steel, Alloy C |
| Output Signal | 4-20mA (NAMUR NE 06 / NE 43) |
| Safety & Compliance | SIL3, WHG, ATEX, IECEx, Marine |
Primary Applications
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Critical Overfill Protection: Serving as the primary safety barrier in high-risk chemical storage or refinery tanks where a spill would have catastrophic consequences.
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High-Integrity Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS): Integration into safety loops where a SIL3 rating is mandated by risk assessment (LOPA).
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Toxic and Hazardous Liquids: Utilizing the FailSafe architecture and second line of defense to monitor levels of extremely dangerous substances.
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Low-Maintenance Safety Points: Ideal for remote or inaccessible safety points where the 12-year proof test interval provides significant operational advantages.
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High-Temperature Reactors: Reliable point level detection in chemical reactors undergoing exothermic processes or high-pressure steam.
