Capacitive fluid-level sensors

26 June 2013 Test & Measurement

Molex recently introduced customised capacitive fluid-level sensors, a low-cost measuring solution with disposable sensors and reusable electronic circuitry.

Designed for measuring fluid or granular material in non-metallic containers, the patent pending sensor electrode design and configurable software provide high accuracy with low hardware cost and easy installation.

The sensors are optimised for hydraulic fluid and pump controls, automotive fuel tanks, agricultural fluid tanks, medical intravenous (IV) drip-feed bags, beverage dispensing systems and other industry applications. Featuring multiple output interface options, including SB, I²C and discrete signals, the sensors provide a customised interface for virtually any application requirement.

The sensors deliver 95% accuracy in auto mode and are 98% accurate when calibrated manually. The embedded software can be configured for maintenance-free auto-calibration or manual calibration to maximise sensor accuracy.

Equipped with flexible circuitry, which conforms to the container shape via pressure-sensitive adhesive, the capacitive sensors are easily mounted to the outside of a container, allowing measurement of caustic fluids in addition to granular and pulverised materials. The sensors can measure through almost any non-metallic material.

Featuring solid-state capacitive technology with no moving parts, the sensors eliminate problems with mechanical wear over time. Providing design flexibility, sensor circuitry substrate options include PCB, polyester flexible circuit and polyimide flexible circuit. A design can use a traditional PCB for a flat surface container or a thin, flexible circuit to accommodate curved surfaces or space-constrained applications.

For more information contact Roger Young, Molex, +27 (0)72 327 1012, roger.young@molex.com, www.molex.com

Further reading:

AI Experts provide product-specific intelligence
Measuretest Test & Measurement
VIAVI Solutions has announced AI Experts, the first addition to its NITRO AI portfolio of AI-driven capabilities with each Expert providing product-specific intelligence.

Read more...

---

Rugged spectrum analyser
Vepac Electronics Test & Measurement
The HAROGIC PXR Series is designed for maximum durability and performance in the most demanding environments.

Read more...

---

Setting a new benchmark for high-power DC load testing
Conical Technologies Test & Measurement Power Electronics / Power Management
The new ITECH IT8900G/L high-speed, high-power DC electronic load offers a powerful combination of speed, scalability, precision and high-power density.

Read more...

---

Locate underground cable faults faster with the Fluke AF2082 A-Frame
Comtest Editor's Choice Test & Measurement
Underground cable faults can lead to costly downtime, service disruptions, and extensive excavation if the fault location is uncertain. The AF2082 simplifies this process by guiding operators directly to the fault point.

Read more...

---

Precision power for electronics testing
Vepac Electronics Test & Measurement
The PeakTech 6168 switching power supply is a versatile and reliable solution designed for professional applications in laboratories, development environments, service centres, and training facilities.

Read more...

---

12-bit 1-wire temperature sensing
RS South Africa Test & Measurement
The DS18B20 digital thermometer from Analog Devices provides 9-bit to 12-bit Celsius temperature measurements in the range -55°C to 125°C.

Read more...

---

Ultra-fast wideband RF insight
Vepac Electronics Test & Measurement
The Harogix PXE-200 is a high-performance real-time spectrum analyser designed for demanding RF environments up to 20 GHz.

Read more...

---

Field calibration made easy
Instrotech Test & Measurement
Built around modern component technology, an intuitive interface, and a rugged IP54-rated housing, Instrotech’s Calog series is engineered for the demands of real industrial field calibration work.

Read more...

---

Rugged two-pole voltage tester
Vepac Electronics Test & Measurement
A key advantage of the PeakTech 1094 is its battery-free operation, ensuring the tester is always ready for use whenever required by professional electricians or maintenance personnel.

Read more...

---

Rapid IoT prototyping simplified
Future Electronics Test & Measurement
The STEVAL-MKBOXPRO from STMicroelectronics is a compact, ready-to-use wireless development kit designed to accelerate the creation of intelligent IoT and wearable applications.

Read more...

---