Technical Characteristics and Process Versatility
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Active Build-up Compensation: The FTI51 uses a guard electrode to compensate for the electrical influence of material adhering to the probe. This ensures the device only triggers a “full” signal when the actual liquid level reaches the sensor, even if the probe is covered in thick sludge or paste.
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Multi-Functional Detection: This sensor is highly versatile. It can be used for traditional high/low alarms, foam detection in conductive liquids, or identifying the interface layer between two different liquids (e.g., oil and water).
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Integrated Pump Control: The FTI51 can be configured for two-point control (e.g., “Pump On” at the tip and “Pump Off” at a higher point on the probe) using only a single process connection, simplifying tank design.
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Durable in Extremes: With a temperature range spanning from -80 °C to +200 °C and pressure resistance up to 100 bar, the FTI51 handles everything from cryogenic storage to high-pressure chemical reactors.
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Fast and Simple Commissioning: Calibration is performed at the press of a button, significantly reducing setup time. Additionally, the electronics can be replaced without the need for a total recalibration of the measuring point.
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High Safety Standards: Certified for SIL2 environments and featuring two-stage overvoltage protection, the FTI51 is built for critical infrastructure and safety-related applications.
Technical Specification Matrix
| Feature | Technical Details |
| Measuring Principle | Capacitance (Point Level) |
| Max. Probe Length | Up to 6 m (20 ft) |
| Process Temperature | -80 to +200 °C (-112 to +392 °F) |
| Process Pressure | Vacuum to 100 bar (1,450 psi) |
| Materials (In-process) | 316L, PFA, PTFE (FDA-listed) |
| Response Time | Very short (milliseconds) |
| Degree of Protection | IP 66 / NEMA 4X |
Primary Applications
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Viscous and Sticky Media: Reliable switching in honey, chocolate, syrups, paints, and heavy oils that traditionally cause false alarms.
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Interface Detection: Monitoring the boundary between two liquids of different dielectric constants in separation tanks.
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Conductive Foam Detection: Detecting the top of foam layers in fermentation vessels or mixing tanks to prevent overflows.
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Pump Dry-Run Prevention: Using the short reaction time to protect expensive pumps from running empty in process lines.
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Chemical and Petrochemical: Reliable point level detection in aggressive acids or high-pressure hydrocarbons where safety certifications like WHG or SIL are required.
