Shutdown at the right time

For years, sensors from VEGA have been monitoring the production of a local juice manufacturer there. The latest addition is a level switch of the new VEGAPOINT series, which is used in a pulp waste container that is problematic in terms of level measurement.

For almost forty years, the juice producer has been experiencing continuous growth and has won many renowned awards at home and abroad. One of the reasons for this is that the fruit is harvested and processed directly. The juice now comes in eleven different flavors, from apple and pear through peach and lychee to mixed flavors. VEGA sensors have been used for many years throughout the production process, for example in the numerous water tanks, in wastewater, in chemical tanks and in the pasteurization process. Thereby, the reliability of the Schiltach-based company and the close and uncomplicated contact with the sensor manufacturer are highly appreciated.

Challenge in pulp tank

A particular challenge proved to be a measuring point in a tank, into which the residues from production enter. This aqueous pulp consists of a mixture of cellulose and solids. The mixture is dewatered; the remaining sludge then enters another tank. The vibration level switches used so far were unsuccessful in measurement. The problem: the accumulation of cellulose on the vibrating forks led to them not working properly and not switching when emptying the tank. In addition, the fruit acid caused further difficulties. The result was overfilling of the tank, as the pumps did not start on time or sometimes spontaneously shut off. Cleaning the floor and the area around the tank was a costly and laborious affair.

In use even before the official launch

A new sensor from VEGA for capacitive level detection seemed promising. Therefore, even before its official introduction, it offered itself as a tester. The VEGAPOINT 21 is a level switch with separate switching point for the detection of water-based liquids. Here, the sensor and the tank form the two electrodes of a capacitor. A capacitance change triggered by a level change is converted into a switching signal. The level switches can be easily adapted to any application situation. The VEGAPOINT 21 is largely independent of the medium properties and therefore does not require adjustment. Thanks to its size, the sensor can be mounted not only in tanks and vessels, but also, for example, in thin pipes. The compact dimensions were an important factor in the decision. In addition, the fact that this is a very favorably priced solution was decisive.

Of no small account

In addition, the VEGAPOINT proves to be an uncomplicated instrument in practice. The probe works even under severe measuring conditions such as turbulence, air bubbles, strong external vibrations or changing medium - all characteristics that were decisive for the application at the fruit juice producer. Even if fouling eventually occurs on the probe, the level switch still switches as soon as the residual water has reached the probe. As soon as the level drops again, it then returns to its normal state. Sensors of the VEGAPOINT series can be used as overfill protection, as dry-running protection and for oil/water and foam detection. Thereby, the optional universal connection with hygiene adapter reduces installation costs and effort as well as the required supplies. Another advantage: the level switch has a compact stainless steel housing and is available in the electronics version as a transistor output or as a transistor output with additional digital IO-Link communication. The sensor can be operated wirelessly via Bluetooth on a tablet or smartphone with an app. This allows switching behavior, application and many more parameters to be set at will.

No more surprises

Special highlight - in the truest sense of the word - is the colored 360° indication of the switching status of the VEGAPOINT for easy detection of the switching state. In this version, users always have a clear view of the state in the tank. They also appreciate this feature at the juice producer, allowing them to devote themselves to other tasks that are important for juice production. The tank can no longer surprise them.