Technical Characteristics and Build-up Compensation
-
Active Build-up Compensation: The FTW33 is designed to ignore the layer of product that often clings to the sensor face. This ensures that the device only switches when the actual level of the medium reaches the sensor, preventing false alarms in sticky applications like honey, chocolate, or syrups.
-
Conductive and Capacitive Hybrid Detection: The sensor detects media with an electrical conductivity > 1 \mu S/cm$ or a dielectric constant > 2. This dual-capability allows it to reliably detect everything from water-based liquids to thick pastes and even foam.
-
Flush-Mounted Design: The sensor sits flush with the vessel or pipe wall. This is a significant advantage for hygienic processes as it eliminates “dead legs” where bacteria could grow and allows for the use of “pigs” (cleaning plugs) to be sent through pipelines without damaging the sensor.
-
High-Temperature Sterilization: The FTW33 is fully CIP (Clean-in-Place) and SIP (Steam-in-Place) compatible, withstanding temperatures up to 150 °C for one hour, making it suitable for high-heat sterilization cycles.
-
IO-Link Integration: Support for IO-Link allows for easy parameter setting and provides a digital communication path for diagnostics and process monitoring, facilitating a quick transition to Industry 4.0 environments.
-
Robust IP 69 Protection: The housing is designed to withstand the most aggressive high-pressure washdowns, ensuring the electronics remain dry and functional in the wettest environments.
Technical Specification Matrix
| Feature | Technical Details |
| Measuring Principle | Conductive/Capacitive |
| Medium Properties | Conductive (> 1 μS/cm) or $\epsilon_r$ > 2 |
| Process Temperature | -20 to +100 °C (-4 to +212 °F); CIP/SIP to 150 °C (302 °F) |
| Process Pressure | 0 to 25 bar abs (0 to 362.5 psi) |
| Housing Material | 316L Stainless Steel |
| Output | 3-wire DC-PNP; IO-Link |
| Protection Class | IP 65/67; IP 69 |
Primary Applications
-
Sticky Food Products: Reliable level switching for chocolate, fruit concentrates, molasses, and nut butters.
-
Pipeline Monitoring: Detecting “pipe full” or “pipe empty” status in hygienic lines, specifically where mechanical pigging is used.
-
Foam Detection: Monitoring the presence of foam in fermentation or mixing vessels to prevent overflow.
-
Agitator Vessels: Flush installation ensures the sensor does not interfere with moving blades or scrapers while providing accurate level signals.
-
Cosmetic and Pharma: Detection of viscous creams, gels, and ointments in processing and filling machines.
