FlexLevel Switch 4401, configurable with the FlexProgrammer

With the FlexLevel Switch 4401, Baumer’s product segment Process Instrumentation introduces a new hygienic level switch which is suitable even for high temperatures up to 180°C. It can be easily configured on PC via the FlexProgrammer 9701. A bright blue light on top of the switch shows when a media is detected. The indication can be seen easily even if the sensor is mounted on top of a tank.

The FlexLevel Switch 4401 is the successor of the LSM and will be available from June on. It has been developed for hygienic applications, so all wetted parts are made of FDA-approved acid-proof stainless steel or PEEK thermoplastic. The level switch complies with the EHEDG demands and is prepared for the 3A approval which makes it ideal for use in the food and beverage industry. For applications in hazardous areas zone 0, zone 1 and zone 2, the level switch is available in an ATEX version.

Already preset ex works and without any further adjustment, the FlexLevel Switch detects the level of liquids, viscous fluids and even dry media. For particularly difficult media like adhesive substances, the teach-in function enables a manual adjustment of the level to be detected. The switching status can be chosen as “normally opened” or “normally closed”. The output type can be chosen as PNP, NPN or digital out by the programming unit.

The level switch can be connected to a PC and configured via the FlexProgrammer 9701 enabling a visual fine-adjustment as well as gating out or zooming in on a certain medium, e.g. to separate a medium from a CIP cleaning preparation.

In the standard version, the FlexLevel Switch is designed for permanent process temperatures from -40°C up to +85°C. However, it is suitable for the use in CIP and SIP facilities with short-term temperatures of up to 140°C (max. one hour). With an optional 100mm or 250mm cooling neck, the FlexLevel Switch can even be used at process temperatures of up to 180°C. The cooling necks are designed with sliding connections, so they can serve as an extension, e.g. if the sensor tip has to reach deeper into the tank with viscous media like yoghurt, or if the media has to be reached through a tank insulation.