Ultrasonic Contact Level Switches

Ultrasonic contact switches use a pair of piezoelectric ceramic crystals that are encapsulated in epoxy at the tip of the transducer. When an electrical voltage is applied, the transmit crystal vibrates at a specific frequency and generates an ultrasonic signal.

When liquid is present in the transducer gap:

  • The ultrasonic signal travels through the liquid
  • The receive crystal detects the signal
  • The signal is converted back into an electrical output
  • The electronics register the presence of liquid

When no liquid is present:
  • The ultrasonic signal is attenuated
  • The receive crystal does not detect the signal
  • The electronics register a dry condition

Wet and Dry Gap Detection

The ultrasonic transducer continuously monitors the gap between the transmit and receive crystals to determine whether the gap is wet or dry.
  • High-level switch operation: When liquid fills the gap, the electronics immediately actuate a relay or shift an output signal to indicate a high-level condition.
  • Low-level switch operation: The device continuously checks for a dry gap and actuates when liquid falls below the sensing point.

This fast and reliable response makes ultrasonic contact switches well-suited for point level control and safety applications.

Common Applications for Ultrasonic Contact Level Switches

Ultrasonic contact level switches are commonly used in applications that require:
  • Reliable point level detection
  • High- or low-level alarms
  • Pump protection and overflow prevention
  • Liquid presence confirmation in tanks and pipes

They are effective in a wide range of industrial liquid processes where continuous level measurement is not required.

Discover our ultrasonic contact products

Do you want to learn more about our ultrasonic contact products? 

Contact your local AMETEK Level Measurement Solutions representative!

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