CleverLevel LBFS Point Level Switch

A. Product Overview

Baumer CleverLevel LBFS is a capacitive point level switch designed for dependable level detection in a wide range of process media. It is used to detect the presence or absence of material at a specific point inside a tank, vessel, hopper or pipeline.

The LBFS series works in liquids, pastes, powders and granular media, making it useful for industries where one sensor needs to handle different media conditions. Its compact stainless steel housing, PEEK wetted part and AISI 316L process material options make it suitable for demanding process environments.

The sensor can be mounted from the top, bottom or side, depending on the application requirement. It is available with different process connections such as G 1/2 A, G 3/4 A, G 1 A, NPT, M18 and hygienic connections. It supports PNP and NPN output configurations and can be supplied with M12 connector or cable outlet options.

The Baumer LBFS is suitable for both industrial and hygienic applications and is available with approvals such as marine, WHG, cULus and optional Ex certification. It can operate in process temperatures up to 150 °C depending on the selected version and process connection.

B. Working Principle

Baumer CleverLevel LBFS works on the CleverLevel Frequency Sweep measuring principle. The sensor tip detects the change in electrical properties around the sensing area when it comes into contact with a medium.

When liquid, powder or bulk material reaches the sensor tip, the dielectric value around the sensor changes. The LBFS evaluates this change and switches the output signal accordingly. This allows the sensor to identify whether the level has reached the required point.

The sensor provides fast response with typical step response time of 0.1 seconds. It also offers adjustable damping from 0 to 10 seconds, which helps stabilize the output in applications with turbulence, foam, vibration or unstable media movement.

The LBFS can be configured as normally open or normally closed and is available with PNP or NPN output. The bright blue LED status indication helps users quickly check switching status during installation and operation.

C. Why It Is Used

Baumer CleverLevel LBFS is used for point level detection where reliable switching is required in process tanks, storage vessels, hoppers and pipelines. It helps prevent overflow, dry running, leakage, material shortage and incorrect process filling.

It is used because it can detect different media types, including liquids, powders, pastes, sticky media and granular solids. This reduces the need for multiple sensor technologies in different process areas.

The LBFS is also preferred where hygiene, cleanability and durable construction are important. With stainless steel construction, PEEK wetted parts, hygienic process connection options and high protection ratings, it is suitable for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical and general process automation applications.

Its flexible mounting options, compact design, fast switching response and approval options make it useful for both standard and critical industrial installations.

D. Suitable Buyers

Baumer CleverLevel LBFS is suitable for the following buyers and application users:

Process automation companies that require reliable point level detection for tanks and vessels.

Food and beverage manufacturers that need hygienic level switches for liquids, powders and process ingredients.

Pharmaceutical and biotech plants that require cleanable and compact level detection solutions.

Chemical processing industries handling liquids, pastes, powders or sticky materials.

OEM machine manufacturers building filling machines, dosing systems, mixing systems and process skids.

System integrators working on tank automation, batch processing and plant monitoring projects.

Maintenance teams replacing conventional level switches with compact capacitive level sensors.

Panel builders and automation suppliers offering PNP and NPN level switch solutions.

Water treatment and utility plants requiring reliable level indication and overflow protection.

Marine and industrial users that need approved level sensors for demanding environments.

FAQ

1. What is Baumer CleverLevel LBFS?

Baumer CleverLevel LBFS is a capacitive point level sensor used to detect the presence or absence of media at a fixed level point inside tanks, vessels, hoppers or pipelines.

2. What type of media can the LBFS detect?

The LBFS can detect liquids, powders, bulk solids, pastes, sticky media and granular materials, depending on the application and configuration.

3. What is the measuring principle of Baumer LBFS?

Baumer LBFS uses the CleverLevel Frequency Sweep measuring principle. It detects changes in the dielectric properties around the sensor tip when the medium reaches the switching point.

4. Can Baumer LBFS be used in hygienic applications?

Yes, Baumer LBFS is suitable for hygienic applications when selected with the correct hygienic process connection and compatible mounting accessories.

5. Can Baumer LBFS be used in industrial applications?

Yes, the LBFS is suitable for general industrial applications such as tanks, vessels, pipelines, hoppers, process skids and automation systems.

6. What output options are available in Baumer LBFS?

Baumer LBFS is available with PNP and NPN output options. It also supports normally open and normally closed switching logic.

7. What is the power supply range of Baumer LBFS?

The LBFS operates on 12 to 30 V DC power supply.

8. What is the maximum process temperature of Baumer LBFS?

Depending on the version and process connection, Baumer LBFS can support process temperatures up to 150 °C.

9. What are the available electrical connection options?

The LBFS is available with M12-A 4-pin connector options and cable outlet versions.

10. What is the protection rating of Baumer LBFS?

With the appropriate cable connection, the LBFS offers IP67 and IP69K protection.

11. Can Baumer LBFS be installed from the side?

Yes, the LBFS can be installed in any mounting position, including top, bottom and side mounting.

12. What industries commonly use Baumer LBFS?

Baumer LBFS is commonly used in food and beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical, water treatment, machine building, marine, process automation and general industrial applications.

13. Is Baumer LBFS available with explosion protection?

Yes, Baumer LBFS is optionally available with Ex certification depending on the selected model configuration.

14. Why should I choose Baumer LBFS over a conventional level switch?

Baumer LBFS provides compact design, reliable detection in diverse media, fast switching, hygienic and industrial suitability, flexible process connections and multiple approval options.

15. Is Baumer LBFS suitable for sticky media?

Yes, Baumer LBFS is suitable for many sticky or adherent media applications because its CleverLevel technology helps provide stable point level detection in challenging process conditions.