A basic magnetic level sensor is a type of liquid level measurement device that utilizes the principles of magnetism to determine the level of a liquid inside a container. It consists of a float, a magnetic element, and a sensor housing. The sensor is typically mounted on the exterior of the container or vessel.
Here's how the operation of a basic magnetic level sensor works:
Float: The float is a buoyant object that is designed to float on the surface of the liquid within the container. It is usually attached to the sensor housing through a stem or rod.
Magnetic Element: The float contains a magnetic element, often a small permanent magnet, embedded or attached to it. This magnet is typically positioned within the float in a way that its position changes as the float moves up or down with the liquid level.
Sensor Housing: The sensor housing is mounted on the exterior of the container or vessel at a specific level. Inside the housing, there is a magnetic sensor, which could be a reed switch, Hall effect sensor, or another type of magnetically sensitive device.
Magnetic Interaction: As the liquid level inside the container changes, the float with the attached magnet moves up or down accordingly. When the float moves, the position of the magnet relative to the sensor inside the housing changes as well.
Output Signal: The magnetic sensor inside the housing detects the presence of the magnetic field from the float's magnet. The change in position of the magnet alters the magnetic field strength detected by the sensor.
Signal Processing: The sensor's electronics process the detected magnetic field strength and convert it into an output signal. This signal can be analog (e.g., voltage or current proportional to the level) or digital (e.g., an on/off signal indicating a certain level threshold is crossed).
Level Indication: The output signal from the sensor is then used to indicate the liquid level. This information can be displayed on a local indicator, transmitted to a remote monitoring system, or used to control other processes based on the liquid level.
It's important to note that the accuracy and reliability of a magnetic level sensor depend on factors such as the design of the float, the placement of the sensor housing, and the specific type of magnetic sensor used. These sensors are commonly used in various industries for applications where non-contact and continuous level monitoring are required, such as in tanks, reservoirs, and other liquid storage vessels.