5 minutes
With the growth of industrial automation, companies began to seek more efficient ways to control their inventory of raw materials and stored products. Traditionally, monitoring levels in silos and tanks was done manually, leading to measurement errors, overfilling or stockouts, and high logistics and management costs.
Before the arrival of level sensors, scales were the primary technology used to accurately measure the amount of stored material. However, their high cost, complex installation, and required maintenance made their implementation not always feasible.
To solve these problems, level sensors emerged—technological devices designed to accurately measure the level of solid or liquid materials in different types of containers. These sensors have enabled the integration of advanced non-contact measurement technology, offering more accessible, practical solutions tailored to the needs of modern industries. In addition to improving the efficiency and safety of industrial operations, they have facilitated process digitalization and remote inventory management.
What is a level sensor?
A level sensor is a device that measures the amount of material present in a silo, tank, or container. Depending on the technology used, these sensors can adapt to various types of materials—solids, powders, liquids… These sensors operate using different technologies, including:
1. Level sensors for solids:
Sensors for granular or powdered materials can use radar, laser, or ultrasonic technologies. These technologies allow non-contact level detection, ensuring accurate measurements even in dusty environments or with density variations.
2. Level sensors for liquids:
For liquids, sensors can work with technologies such as radar, ultrasound, or capacitive probes. These sensors can measure levels in open or closed tanks and adapt to liquids with foam, vapor, or aggressive chemicals.
What is a level sensor used for?
A level sensor is used to monitor the stock quantities of a stored product. Regardless of the product type or technology used, these devices transmit real-time information to digital management platforms. This allows for automated alerts, optimized restocking processes, and improved operational efficiency, making storage control easier, more practical, reliable, and optimized.
Level sensors are used across many industries, optimizing processes and reducing operational costs. Below are three key sectors where their implementation is especially valuable:
1. In livestock farming: Optimizing animal feeding
In farms and livestock operations, level sensors ensure a constant supply of feed and water for animals. This helps prevent shortages, automate feed orders, and improve efficiency in input management.
2. In construction: On-site material control
In the construction industry, level sensors facilitate the management of cement, sand, and other essential materials. This helps reduce downtime due to lack of materials, improves logistics, and ensures real-time inventory control.
3. In logistics: Improving the supply chain
In warehouses and logistics centers, using level sensors helps optimize product storage and distribution. Key benefits include reducing overstocking costs, preventing stockouts, and automating inventory replenishment.