A basic magnetic level sensor is a type of device used to measure the liquid level within a container or vessel. It operates on the principle of using a magnet and a magnetic field to detect the position of the liquid's surface. Here's how it generally works:
Components: A magnetic level sensor typically consists of two main components: a float and a stationary stem or tube. The float is a buoyant object that can move up and down within the stem or tube. The stem is usually installed vertically inside the container, with its top end connected to the sensor's housing.
Float and Magnet: The float contains a permanent magnet or a magnetic material. This magnet provides the magnetic property necessary for the sensor to function.
Installation: The magnetic level sensor is installed vertically inside the container, with the stem attached to the container's top and extending downward into the liquid.
Liquid Level Changes: As the liquid level inside the container changes, the float attached to the stem will move up or down accordingly. When the liquid level rises, the float will move upward along the stem. Conversely, when the liquid level drops, the float will move downward.
Magnetic Field Detection: The sensor housing, which surrounds the stem and float, contains a magnetic field detection mechanism. This could be in the form of a reed switch or a Hall effect sensor. These sensors are capable of detecting changes in the magnetic field around them.
Magnetic Field Interaction: As the float moves with the changing liquid level, the magnet inside the float comes closer to or moves away from the magnetic field detection mechanism in the sensor housing. This proximity or distance affects the magnetic field strength detected by the sensor.
Output Signal: Based on the changes in the detected magnetic field strength, the sensor generates an electrical signal. This signal is then processed by the sensor's electronics to determine the float's position, which corresponds to the liquid level in the container.
Output Representation: The output of the magnetic level sensor can be used to indicate the liquid level in various ways, such as analog voltage or current signals, digital signals, or even by directly driving indicators like lights or displays.
Applications: Magnetic level sensors are commonly used in various industrial, commercial, and residential applications, including but not limited to monitoring liquid levels in tanks, reservoirs, silos, and pipelines. They are particularly useful when dealing with liquids that might be corrosive, viscous, or otherwise challenging for other types of level sensors.
In summary, a basic magnetic level sensor uses the interaction between a magnetic float and a detection mechanism to sense changes in the liquid level within a container, translating those changes into electrical signals that can be further processed and utilized for level monitoring and control purposes.