Sensor Probe for Level Measurement | Component Specifications

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Sensor Probe

Definition

A sensor probe is the critical sensing component within a level sensor assembly that detects the presence, absence, or height of a material (liquid, solid, or slurry) in a container or vessel. It serves as the primary interface between the sensor system and the process material, converting physical or chemical properties into measurable electrical signals. The probe is designed for direct contact or interaction with the medium, and its construction materials and geometry are selected based on the application's chemical compatibility, temperature, pressure, and mechanical requirements. Common materials include stainless steel (e.g., 316L), Hastelloy, PTFE (Teflon), and ceramic (alumina), each offering distinct resistance to corrosion, abrasion, and thermal stress. The probe's operating principle varies by technology: capacitive probes detect changes in dielectric constant, conductive probes sense electrical conductivity, ultrasonic probes measure echo time, pressure-based probes respond to hydrostatic pressure, and optical probes rely on light reflection. The probe's performance is characterized by parameters such as operating temperature (-40 to 85 °C), measurement range (0–100 mm, with custom ranges available), accuracy (±0.5% FS including linearity and hysteresis per IEC 60770), response time (≤1 s for a step change in level), supply voltage (24 V DC ±10%, reverse polarity protected), output signal (4–20 mA two-wire loop powered per IEC 60381), ingress protection (IP65–IP68 per IEC 60529, with IP68 for submersible versions), probe material (316L per ASTM A240, optional PTFE coating for corrosive media), process connection (G1/2–G2 per ISO 228, other threads available), probe length (100–3000 mm, custom lengths up to 6000 mm), and weight (0.5–2.5 kg depending on length and material). These values are reference ranges; actual specifications must be confirmed with the manufacturer for the specific model and application. The probe is a component, not a standalone instrument, and requires integration with the sensor's electronics and power supply. Proper installation, calibration, and maintenance are essential for reliable level measurement.

Working Principle

The probe operates by detecting changes in a physical property (e.g., capacitance, conductivity, ultrasonic echo, pressure, or optical reflection) at its tip or along its length when it comes into contact with or is immersed in the target material. This change is processed by the sensor's electronics to determine the material level. For capacitive probes, the dielectric constant of the medium alters the capacitance between electrodes. Conductive probes use the medium's electrical conductivity to complete a circuit. Ultrasonic probes emit sound waves and measure the time for the echo to return. Pressure probes sense the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the liquid column. Optical probes use light reflection at the interface. The probe's design ensures reliable detection under specified conditions, but performance can be affected by factors such as buildup, foam, or aggressive media.

Common Materials

Stainless Steel (e.g., 316L), Hastelloy, PTFE (Teflon), Ceramic (Alumina)

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Operating Temperature	-40–85 °C	Outside range, sensor accuracy degrades
Measurement Range	0–100 mm	Custom ranges available on request
Accuracy	±0.5 % FS	Includes linearity and hysteresisIEC 60770
Response Time	≤1 s	For step change in level
Supply Voltage	24 ±10% V DC	Reverse polarity protected
Output Signal	4–20 mA	Two-wire loop poweredIEC 60381
Ingress Protection	IP65–IP68	IP68 for submersible versionsIEC 60529
Probe Material	316L	Optional PTFE coating for corrosive mediaASTM A240
Process Connection	G1/2–G2 inch	Other threads availableISO 228
Probe Length	100–3000 mm	Custom lengths up to 6000 mm
Weight	0.5–2.5 kg	Depends on length and material

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Sensing Element/Tip Part
The active area that detects the material property (e.g., capacitive plates, conductive surface, piezoelectric crystal).

Material: Stainless Steel, Ceramic, PTFE
Probe Body/Sheath Part
Protects the internal sensing element and wiring from the process environment, providing mechanical strength and chemical resistance.

Material: Stainless Steel (316L), Hastelloy
Insulation/Dielectric Part
Electrically isolates the sensing element from the sheath in capacitive probes, or provides a protective barrier.

Material: PTFE, Ceramic
Connection Head/Cable Gland Part
Provides a sealed entry point for the electrical cable connecting the probe to the sensor transmitter or controller.

Material: Stainless Steel, Plastic (e.g., PBT)

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Sensor Probe.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Level Sensor Assembly

View system integration details

Moisture Sensor

View system integration details

Level Controller

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Sensor Probe

5 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Davantech

Dongguan, Guangdong, CN

Founded 201245+ staff5,000 m²

ISO 9001:2015

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