CAPACITIVE TYPE PROXIMITY LEVEL SWITCH
The capacitive type proximity level switch can be utilized in a variety of locations, and
for a variety of reasons, within a FLEXICON materials handling system to detect the
presence of a bulk solid material. The signal transmitted by a level switch is generally
used to automate equipment operation, or to alert personnel to a specific condition. The
level switch features a red LED to indicate a positive output, and also a potentiometer
for sensitivity adjustment.
Installation
Level switches are supplied loose, and must typically be mounted in 30 mm half
couplings by simply screwing the threaded level switch into place. When properly
installed, the level switch should protrude into the hopper, or other process vessel, far
enough so that the wall of the vessel does not activate the switch. This insertion depth
is usually approximately ¾”. Although the 30 mm half couplings are usually factory
installed, occasionally an application will dictate that these half couplings be installed in
a field-determined location to achieve the desired functionality, such as determining the
highest point of material flow during normal operation.
The level switch should be programmed and wired to the control panel to allow the
system to operate as intended. If Flexicon has provided electrical controls, proper
terminal strip wiring and switch programming will be shown on the electrical schematic.
Normally Open / Normally Closed Programming
The capacitive type proximity level switch can be set to operate in either a normally
open, or normally closed state. A level switch that is set to operate in a normally open
state will not provide output when there is no bulk solid material present at the switch
location and will provide output when the material level passes above the level switch.
Conversely, a level switch set to normally closed will provide output when there is no
bulk solid material present at the switch location, and will not provide output when
material level passes above the level switch.
To program the level switch, loosen the screw that holds the orange front of the switch
to the black rear of the switch, and separate the two components. On the orange front
of the switch, there is a wire loop that determines the programming of the switch. Level
switches are sent in a normally open state. To convert the switch to normally closed,
cut the wire loop. Finally, reattach the orange and black switch components, and
tighten the screw.
FLEXICON CORPORATION 2400 Emrick Boulevard ■ Bethlehem, PA 18020-8006 USA
Tel: 1-888-FLEXICON ■ Tel: 1-610-814-2400 ■ Fax: 1-610-814-0600 ■ [Link]
Sensitivity Adjustment
It is essential that the sensitivity of the capacitive type proximity level switch be properly
adjusted. The following steps should be followed for a normally open switch:
1. Once the switch has been mounted in the application, set up the worst case
conditions that would cause a false “ON” signal. For example, the worst case condition
may be a dusting of product coating the switch even after the material level has dropped
below the switch. Turn the potentiometer clockwise until the LED is on, then turn the
potentiometer counterclockwise until the LED just turns off.
2. Immerse the switch in the bulk solid material. The LED should turn on. Turn the
potentiometer counterclockwise and count the number of turns until the LED turns off.
3. Turn the potentiometer clockwise half the number of turns counted in step 2.
The following steps should be followed for a normally closed switch:
1. Once the switch has been mounted in the application, set up the worst case
conditions that would cause a false “OFF” signal. For example, the worst case
condition may be a dusting of product coating the switch even after the material level
has dropped below the switch. Turn the potentiometer clockwise until the LED is off,
then turn the potentiometer counterclockwise until the LED just turns on.
2. Immerse the switch in the bulk solid material. The LED should turn off. Turn the
potentiometer counterclockwise and count the number of turns until the LED turns on.
3. Turn the potentiometer clockwise half the number of turns counted in step 2
FLEXICON CORPORATION 2400 Emrick Boulevard ■ Bethlehem, PA 18020-8006 USA
Tel: 1-888-FLEXICON ■ Tel: 1-610-814-2400 ■ Fax: 1-610-814-0600 ■ [Link]