Level sensors—such as a standard diaphragm switch—may not be able to detect the presence of bulk material when minimal pressure is applied. These challenges are further amplified in compact storage vessels where technology optimal for small spaces is required.
BinMaster’s solution for these unique applications is the VRX vibrating probe level sensor, now with a 1-1/4” fitting for small process openings and easy-retrofit installations.
Slim Profile, Peak Performance
Standard vibrating rod sensors offer reliable high-, mid-, or low-level detection in bins, tanks, and silos of many sizes, diameters, and bin wall thicknesses. They offer inventory level notification when mounted on the roof of a vessel or in the cone of a bin. The sensors can also detect blockages when mounted in chutes or conveyors.
This method of measurement also applies to the VRX’s slim vibrating element. Its compact size is best suited for installations where the size of the mounting opening is limited, but accurate level alerts remain critical.
The 1-1/4” fitting is compatible with two of BinMaster’s vibrating probe options:
- VRX21: Standard in-stock model; insertion length of 7.5 inches
- VRX41: Rigid galvanized pipe, stainless-steel, or sanitary pipe extension; user-customized from 13 inches up to 13 feet
Where Point-Level Probes Thrive
VRX level switches sense bulk materials via a change in piezoelectric frequency. When the sensing probe or rod is contacted by or covered in material, the vibration is damped. A relay is triggered to represent a “covered” condition—and, as it applies to VRX sensors, the bright status indicator light changes from green (uncovered) to red (covered).
When material falls away, the sensor’s vibration resumes and the relay switches back to its “uncovered” default. The status LED follows suit and changes back to a green light.
This hyper-sensitive technology and buildup-resistant blade make VRX vibrating switches an ideal choice for difficult-to-measure powders, flakes, and pellets with bulk densities as low as 1.25 lb/ft.³. This enhances control over essential ingredients used in a variety of industrial processing operations:
- Plastics: PET and HDPE flakes in packaging and recycling; resin pellets utilized by thermoformers and injection molders
- Cement: Fly ash, carbon black, crushed silicates, and aluminum powders
- Food Processing: Flour and food-grade powders, including herbs and spices
- Bioenergy: Wood shavings, chips, pellets, and sawdust used in alternative energy production
- Milling: Coarse grains, wheat middlings, or nutritional additives for livestock feed
Choosing the Correct Sensor for Bulk Material Handling
Before purchasing level indicators—in addition to operational and budget considerations—customers must determine what certification standards are mandatory for their worksite.
- Is there a risk of combustible dust in the measurement area?
- Are flammable gases, vapors, or liquids utilized in the operation?
- Are these threats present during everyday production, or only in abnormal conditions?
Vibrating probes from BinMaster are C/US Class II, Division 1 certified for hazardous locations in the United States. Additional sanitary fittings and high-temperature probes are offered to meet industry-specific compliance requirements.
At industrial locations where North American or ATEX/IECEx hazardous location approvals are required, the BMRX-300 rotary paddle level indicator delivers point-level detection in high-dust, potentially flammable environments.
- ATEX/IECEx certified to international safety directives
- Protective fail-safe capabilities and self-diagnostics support critical process control
- Suited for bulk solid materials with densities up to 100 lb./ft.³
- Fitted with an integrated status indicator light for at-a-glance level alerts
Support Safer Workers & Bulk Inventory Confidence
When safety is prioritized, productivity follows. Proven point-level sensors like the VRX and BMRX promote inventory visibility, data-driven logistics, and level measurement without manpower.
Employees no longer have to climb bin ladders or storage vessels for manual readings. Risks are minimized. Workers can maintain efficiency and focus on high-value tasks, as opposed to tracking spreadsheets and fumbling with tape measures.
Learn more about how accurate alerts, actionable reporting, and reliable level sensors enhance manufacturing industries at BinMaster.com.
