A gauge indicating the fuel level in a fuel tank can be either a traditional analogic indicator or the latest version of an electronic gauge: either way, the presence of a level sensor for marine tanks is essential for boat safety. This device can carefully measure the level of liquid in a marine tank and transmit it to the analogue or digital gauge.
These level sensors vary according to the resistance scale they refer to, as each scale has its own resistance values. Obviously, it is important that both the indicator and the level sensor share the same scale. The most popular models include:
- the European type, with a resistance scale empty/full ranging from 10 to 180 Ohm (Ω);
- the American standard type, where the resistance values empty/full range from 33 to 240 Ohm (Ω);
- the VETUS type, with a resistance scale ranging from 300 to 10 Ohm (Ω);
- other specific gauges that work in currents from 4 to 20 milliampere (mA).
New Magnetic Float Sensors for Improved Safety and Accuracy
Nevertheless, adapting the level sensor to each scale represented a significant challenge in electronic measurement. For this reason, earlier analog indicators (those with a dipstick and variable-resistance rheostat) were followed by new level sensors with a magnetic float, which activates internal magnetic sensors, known as “reed.” Despite this, it was still necessary to adapt these sensors to one of the resistance scales mentioned before.
SIC – Divisione Elettronica developed a strategy to meet this need, creating and internationally patenting a capacitive level sensor. This sensor, besides being a continuous-level sensor, can operate without an electricity supply and adapt to every resistance scale. The previous resistive level sensors could work with only one variable resistance, whereas the capacitive sensor developed by SIC – Divisione Elettronica has a more complex circuit that detects and collects latent voltage from analog devices (those with a dipstick) to power itself, simulating a final resistance corresponding to the correct scale.
Advanced Features of SIC’s Universal Capacitive Level Sensor
In addition to this process, the product also allows the user/supplier to set the scale by inserting or disconnecting some Jumpers. In this way, the capacitive level sensor adapts to any resistance scale, making the sensor from SIC – Divisione Elettronica a universal tool.
Consequently, this feature benefits both the distributor, who needs only one product instead of four, and the maintenance technician, who can easily configure the level sensor when replacing a device with a different scale.
Key features of this innovative level sensor by SIC – Divisione Elettronica include:
- fully electronic measurement;
- continuous measurement;
- no moving parts or float;
- extreme precision (previous “reed” systems had a snap function);
- reliability, durability, and universal application;
- one or two outputs that connect to visual or acoustic alarms, notifying the user when the tank is at 80% or 20%.
Another important feature of this next-generation level sensor is its compatibility with different installation methods: it can be fitted by a universal bivalent flange with five DIN-holes or by a 1’1/4 threading with a Viton O-Ring for total sealing, compatible with various liquids (hydrocarbons, water, waste water, ethanol, urea, oil, diesel, etc.).
SIC – Divisione Elettronica has also adapted this level sensor for fresh water and waste water tanks, matching the high performance seen with hydrocarbon tanks. The main difference is the probe solution, which fits conductive liquids like water, waste water, and urea. This version is also compatible with urea tanks.
As a major producer of hydrocarbon and urea tanks, SIC – Divisione Elettronica invested significantly in the development and patenting of these innovative, high-definition level sensors.
