On the level with new SICK CQF capacitive sensor

SICK says that its compact, economic and quick to install CQF16 capacitive level sensor has been developed to provide a universal non-contact solution. The sensor is said to be well suited wherever the fill level of water-based liquids must be detected in non-metallic vessels, tanks or pipes.

The ECOLAB-certified CQF16 level sensor is supplied with a one-clip mounting bracket that can be fastened securely to the wall of any pipe or container. Using the capacitive measurement principle, it accurately detects water-based media regardless of foam, moisture or deposit build-up on the inside of the vessel.

SICK positions the CQF16 as a "cost-effective alternative to continuous analogue measurement with a diverse range of fill-level detection uses". For example, it is suitable for detecting levels of oils, milk or honey in food processing machinery, or for checking condensate water in freezers. The company also says that it will prove useful for detection of ink-cartridge levels in printing and packaging machinery and in medical and pharmaceutical machinery, where it could be used to monitor levels in the storage vessels for filling vials or processing blood products.

SICK's David Hannaby observes “For most applications, the factory-calibrated version is all a user needs to get started. Just clip the sensor into the bracket supplied and it's ready to go.  For more demanding applications, the sensor can be simply taught-in via the cable connection.  Easy commissioning is assured thanks to the two on-device LEDs showing power-on and output status.”

The compact CQF16 measures just 16 mm x 34 mm x 8 mm and has a sensing range up to 6 mm. With a robust housing rated up to IP69K, and the option of an M8 male connector or integral cable connection, the CQF16 level sensors avoid the risk of fluid penetration in process environments.  With a 100mA signal, they also offer a flexible choice of PNP/NPN or NO/NC switching outputs.