What is a level sensor and what is it used for?

With the growth of industrial automation, companies began to look for more efficient ways to control their stocks of raw materials and stored products. Traditionally, monitoring levels in silos and tanks was done manually, which led to measurement errors, risks of overfilling or shortages, and high logistics and management costs.

Before the advent of level sensors, scales were the main technology used to accurately measure the amount of stored material. However, their high cost, installation complexity, and maintenance requirements 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 made it possible to integrate 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 the digitisation of processes 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 reservoir. Depending on the technology used, these sensors can be adapted to different types of materials: solids, powders, liquids, etc. These sensors operate using different technologies, including:

1. Level sensors for solid materials:

Sensors for granular or powdery materials can use technologies such as radar, laser or ultrasound systems. These technologies allow the material level to be detected without direct contact, ensuring accurate measurements even in environments with dust or density variations.

2. Level sensors for liquid materials:

In the case of liquids, sensors can operate using technologies such as radar, ultrasound or capacitive probes. These sensors allow levels to be measured in open or closed tanks, adapting to liquids with foam, steam or aggressive chemicals.

What is a level sensor used for?

A level sensor is used to monitor stock levels of a stored product. Furthermore, regardless of the type of product or technology used, these devices transmit information in real time to digital management platforms. This makes it possible to programme automatic alerts, optimise restocking processes and improve operational efficiency, making the control of these storage spaces easier, more practical, reliable and optimised.

Level sensors have applications in numerous industries, optimising processes and reducing operating costs. Below, we highlight three sectors where their implementation is key:

1. In livestock farming: Optimisation of animal feed

On farms and livestock holdings, level sensors ensure a constant supply of feed and water for animals. This helps prevent shortages, automates feed ordering and improves efficiency in input management.

2. In construction: Control of materials on site

In the construction industry, level sensors facilitate the management of cement, sand, and other essential materials. This helps reduce downtime due to material shortages, improve logistics, and maintain accurate real-time inventory control.

3. In logistics: Improvement of the supply chain

In warehouses and logistics centres, the use of level sensors optimises product storage and distribution. Among their benefits are reduced costs due to overstocking, prevention of stock shortages, and automation of inventory replenishment