- Process- and system-specific solutions possible
- Operating conditions: - Operating temperature: T = -10°C ...+70 °C (+158 °F) - Operating pressure: ambient
- Lengths: up to 20 m (65 ft)
- Humidity: 100 %
- Operational radiation dose: ≤ 160 kGy (16 MRad)
 Datasheet |
- Compact and space-saving design
- Output signal 4 ... 20 mA (NAMUR NE43) or HART® ver. 6
- Operating limits: - Operating temperature: T = -40 ... +250 °C - Operating pressure: P = Vacuum to 40 bar - Limit density: ρ ≥ 580 kg/m3
- Explosion-protected version (option)
- Vibration resistant version (option)
| Datenblatt |
| Bedienungsanleitung |
| Bedienungsanleitung |
- Compact and space-saving design for industrial applications
- Output signal 4 ... 20 mA (NAMUR NE43)
- Operating limits - Operating temperature T = -40 ... +125 °C - Operating pressure P = Vacuum to 40 bar - Limit density ρ ≥ 680 kgm3
| Datasheet |
| User Manual |
- Fully welded and dead space free
- Operating limits: - Operating temperature: T = -40 ... +250 °C - Operating pressure: P = Vacuum to 10 bar
- Insensitive to foaming, ideal for interface measurement
- High-precision level measurement: Accuracy < 0.5 mm
- Wide variety of hygienic process connections
| Datasheet |
| User Manual |
| User Manual |
- Process- and procedure-specific solutions possible
- Operating limits: - Operating temperature: T = -80 ... +200 °C [-112 ... +392 °F] - Operating pressure: P = Vacuum to 25 bar [362,6 psi] - Limit density: ρ ≥400 kg/m3 [25,0 lbs/ft3]
- Wide variety of different electrical connections, process connections and materials
- Optionally with programmable and configurable head-mounted transmitter for 4 ... 20 mA field signals, HART®, PROFIBUS® PA and FOUNDATION™ Fieldbus
- Explosion-protected versions (option)
| Datasheet |
| User Manual |
| User Manual |
- Process- and procedure-specific solutions possible
- Operating limits: - Operating temperature: T = -80 ... +200 °C [-112 ... +392 °F] - Operating pressure: P = vacuum to 80 bar [1,160.3 psi] - Limit density: ρ ≥ 400 kg/m3 [25.0 lbs/ft³]
- Wide variety of different electrical connections, process connections and materials
- 4 ... 20 mA output signal with additional Bluetooth® interface for wireless configuration and level monitoring
| Datasheet |
| User Manual |
| User Manual |
- IIoT-capable measuring instrument in combination with WIKA radio unit, model NETRIS®3
- Process- and procedure-specific solutions possible
- Operating limits:
- Process temperature:T = -80 ... +200 °C [-112 ... +842 °F]
- Operating pressure: P = vacuum to 80 bar [1,160 psi]
- Limit density: ρ ≥ 400 kg/m3
- Wide variety of different process connections and materials
- Intrinsically safe version Ex i
| Datasheet |
- Media compatibility: Oil, water, diesel, refrigerants and other liquids
- Permissible medium temperature range: -30 ... +120 °C [-22 ... +248 °F]
- Output signal: Resistance in a 3-wire potentiometer circuit, current output 4 ... 20 mA
- Measuring principle: Reed-chain technology
- Accuracy, resolution: 24 mm [0.9 in], 12 mm [0.5 in], 10 mm [0.4 in], 6 mm [0.2 in] oder 3 mm [0.1 in]
| Datasheet |
| User Manual |
- Media compatibility: aqueous media and corrosive liquids
- Wetted parts: PP or PVDF
- Output signal: Resistance in a 3-wire potentiometer circuit, current output 4 ... 20 mA
- Accuracy, resolution: 24 mm [0.9 in], 12 mm [0.5 in], 10 mm [0.4 in], 6 mm [0.2 in] or 3 mm [0.1 in]
| Datasheet |
| User Manual |
- Media compatibility: Oil, water, diesel, refrigerants and other liquids
- Level: Current output 4 ... 20 mA
- Temperature: Pt100, Pt1000, accuracy: Class B
| Datenblatt |
| Bedienungsanleitung |
- Process- and procedure-specific solutions possible
- Operating limits: - Operating temperature: T = -90 ... +450 °C [-130 ... +842 °F] - Operating pressure: P = vacuum to 100 bar [1,450.4 psi] - Limit density: ρ ≥ 400 kg/m3 [25.0 lbs/ft³]
- Resolution < 0.1 mm
- Wide variety of different electrical connections, process connections and materials
- Explosion-protected versions
| Datasheet |
| User Manual |
| User Manual |
| User Manual |
- Process- and system-specific solutions possible
- Operating limits: - Operating temperature: T = -80 ... +200 °C - Operating pressure: P = Vacuum up to 80 bar - Limit density: ρ ≥400 kg/m3
- Wide variety of different electrical connections, process connections and materials
- Optionally with programmable and configurable head-mounted transmitter for 4 ... 20 mA field signals, HART®, PROFIBUS® PA and FOUNDATION™ Fieldbus
- Explosion-protected versions (option)
| Datasheet |
| Datasheet |
| User Manual |
| User Manual |
| User Manual |
Continuous Level Measurement with Floats – WIKA / KSR Kuebler
Float-based level transmitters from WIKA / KSR Kuebler provide continuous, robust level readings—even in demanding media and process conditions. Depending on the variant they operate as magnetostrictive transmitters (mm-resolution), Reed-chain transmitters (step-wise resolution) or potentiometric/Hall systems along a guide tube or in a bypass.
Features (model-dependent): materials 316L/1.4571, duplex, Hastelloy®, titanium; process connections G/NPT, PN/ANSI flanges, clamp/Varivent; options for ATEX/IECEx, SIL, high pressure/temperature, multi-point/interface (e.g., oil/water), outputs 4–20 mA/HART, Modbus/RS-485, IO-Link, local indication and limit switches.
ICS Schneider Messtechnik supports sizing (density/viscosity, temperature, pressure), float selection, mounting (top/side entry, bypass), calibration and integration into PLC/SCADA/IIoT.
FAQ on Continuous Measurement with Floats
Answers on measuring principles, accuracy/resolution, density influence, installation, hygiene/ATEX/SIL, setup and best practices.
How do magnetostrictive transmitters work?
A float magnet triggers a torsional wave along a waveguide; the time-of-flight is evaluated. Result: a continuous, high-resolution level signal with millimeter accuracy.
How do Reed-chain transmitters work?
The float sequentially actuates Reed switches along a chain. Resolution equals the contact spacing (e.g., 5, 10 or 20 mm), producing a stepped level profile.
What accuracy is realistic?
| Technology | Typical accuracy | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Magnetostrictive | ±1…2 mm | Very high repeatability, low drift |
| Reed chain | ±(one step) | Depends on step size, e.g., 5–10 mm |
| Potentiometric/Hall | ±2…5 mm | Rugged and economical |
Which media are suitable?
Virtually all liquids with sufficient buoyancy: water, oils, chemicals, fuels, solvents, food & beverage. For high viscosity/build-up use suitable float shapes or flush bypass designs.
What is the influence of density (ρ)?
The float position depends on ρ; changing density slightly shifts the reading. Mitigate by specifying ρ during design or applying a correction in the control system.
Can I measure interfaces (e.g., oil/water)?
Yes—using a second float or an interface float enables phase boundary measurement; the system can output both level and interface.
Which mounting styles are available?
- Top entry with a guide tube inserted from above
- Side entry via a side nozzle
- Bypass as an external chamber parallel to the vessel (accessible, retrofit-friendly)
How do I choose the right float?
By density, viscosity, temperature, pressure and chemical compatibility. Floats exist in slim, weighted, heavy-duty or ATEX-capable versions made of stainless steel, titanium, PTFE, etc.
Which process connections are possible?
G/NPT threads, PN/ANSI flanges, and clamp/Varivent for hygienic service; custom lengths and drilling patterns are common.
How large are the dead zones at the ends?
A small blank zone is inherent (float height, end stop). It is specified on the datasheet and included in the measuring length.
What temperature and pressure limits apply?
Model-dependent up to high pressure and elevated temperatures. For hot media use neck extensions/cooling sections; for cryogenic service use dedicated designs.
Which outputs/communications are supported?
4–20 mA/HART (2-wire), 0/10 V, Modbus/RS-485, IO-Link; optional switch outputs (min/max/window) and local indicators.
How are setup and calibration performed?
Factory calibrated; on site set zero/span, damping, alarms and, if needed, load a strapping table. Magnetostrictive devices are linear and low-drift—often no periodic recalibration required.
What matters in hygienic applications?
Use 316L, polished surfaces, flush connections (clamp/Varivent), FDA/EU 1935/2004-compliant seals, CIP/SIP resistance and complete material certificates.
Are ATEX/IECEx and SIL options available?
Yes—many series are offered in Ex i/Ex d and can be used up to SIL2/3. Document proof-test intervals and use suitable safety evaluation.
How do I stabilize the signal under turbulence?
Use a bypass or stilling well, enable damping, keep distance from inlets/agitators and employ mechanical guides where needed.
What are typical pitfalls?
- Wrong density assumption → correct ρ or enable compensation
- Build-up/fouling → choose suitable materials/bypass, plan cleaning intervals
- Float sticking → check alignment, keep guide tube straight/clean
- EMC interference → shielded cabling and proper bonding
Can I output volume or mass directly?
Yes—via strapping tables the device or PLC can convert level to volume/mass; temperature/density compensation can be included.
What does maintenance look like?
Systems are low maintenance. Periodically inspect the guide tube/bypass for deposits, verify tightness, check electrical connections and record function tests.
Do you support selection, sizing & commissioning?
Yes. We determine the measuring length/connection, select float/materials, configure signal & alarms, provide calibration certificates and integrate into PLC/SCADA/cloud.