Drexelbrook Intellipoint RF Admittance Level Switch for Floating Roof Tanks
| Brand | Drexelbrook |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Product Category | Domestic (China-made) |
| Model | Intellipoint RF Admittance Level Switch for Floating Roof Tanks |
| Product Type | Level Switch |
| Certification Option | SIL 2 Compliant |
| Sensor Material | Brass |
| Power Supply | Loop-powered (2-wire) |
| Adjustable Sensing Range | 0.3 m to 5.48 m |
| Probe Type | Flexible, Tank-Adapted |
| Calibration | Field-adjustable |
| Installation | Non-invasive, No Hot Work or Penetration Required |
| Spark-Free Design | Yes |
Overview
The Drexelbrook Intellipoint RF Admittance Level Switch is an intrinsically safe, loop-powered level detection device engineered specifically for continuous and point-level monitoring in floating roof storage tanks—both internal and external configurations. It operates on the principle of radio-frequency (RF) admittance measurement, which evaluates changes in capacitance and conductance between a probe and tank wall (or reference ground) when process material contacts the sensing element. Unlike traditional capacitance switches, the Intellipoint compensates for coating buildup, temperature drift, and dielectric variations through adaptive signal processing, delivering high reproducibility in challenging hydrocarbon, solvent, and refined product applications. Its design addresses the critical operational constraints of floating roof systems—including limited access, vapor space hazards, and strict safety protocols—by eliminating the need for tank penetration, hot work permits, or structural modification during installation.
Key Features
- Flexible, field-configurable probe optimized for vertical alignment across variable roof travel ranges (0.3–5.48 m)
- Loop-powered (2-wire 4–20 mA HART® compatible) architecture reduces wiring complexity and enables integration into existing DCS/PLC infrastructure without auxiliary power
- Brass-sensor construction ensures intrinsic spark-free operation, meeting Class I, Division 1, Groups C & D hazardous area requirements per UL/CSA standards
- Integrated auto-detection circuitry continuously validates probe integrity and detects coating accumulation, minimizing false alarms and unplanned maintenance
- SIL 2 certification available per IEC 61508, supporting use in safety instrumented systems (SIS) for overfill protection per API RP 2510 and IEC 61511
- No mechanical moving parts—robust solid-state electronics ensure long-term stability under cyclic thermal loading and vibration common in large-diameter atmospheric tanks
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Intellipoint switch is validated for use with non-conductive and semi-conductive liquids typical in petroleum refining, petrochemical storage, and bulk chemical handling—including gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, crude oil, ethanol blends, and aromatic solvents. It complies with EN 61000-6-2 (EMC immunity) and EN 61000-6-4 (EMC emissions), and meets ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU (II 1G Ex ia IIC T4 Ga) when configured with appropriate barriers. For regulatory traceability, device configuration, calibration history, and diagnostic logs are retained in non-volatile memory and support audit-ready documentation under GLP and GMP frameworks. Optional factory calibration certificates conform to ISO/IEC 17025-accredited procedures.
Software & Data Management
Configuration and diagnostics are performed via HART® communication using standard handheld communicators (e.g., Rosemount 375/475) or PC-based DTM software compliant with FDT/DTM standards. The device supports full parameterization—including damping time, fail-safe action (high/low trip), and coating compensation thresholds—without requiring physical disassembly. All configuration changes are timestamped and logged with user ID attribution, satisfying FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures when deployed in regulated environments. Firmware updates are delivered via secure, digitally signed packages to maintain cybersecurity integrity per ISA/IEC 62443-3-3 guidelines.
Applications
- High-level overfill protection in external floating roof tanks storing volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Secondary containment verification in internal floating roof tanks handling Class IIIB liquids
- Interface detection between immiscible layers (e.g., water bottoms beneath hydrocarbon phases)
- Batch transfer interlock signaling in refinery feedstock blending systems
- Redundant level confirmation in SIL 2-rated safety loops per API RP 2510 Section 5.3.2
FAQ
Is the Intellipoint suitable for use in explosion-hazardous zones?
Yes—it is certified for Class I, Division 1, Groups C & D (UL/CSA) and ATEX Zone 0 (Ex ia IIC T4 Ga) when installed with approved intrinsic safety barriers.
Does it require tank entry or hot work for installation?
No—its flexible probe design allows top-entry mounting through existing gauge hatches or manways without welding, cutting, or tank shutdown.
Can the sensing range be adjusted after installation?
Yes—range adjustment from 0.3 m to 5.48 m is performed remotely via HART® interface or local push-button calibration, eliminating the need for probe retraction.
What maintenance is required to sustain SIL 2 compliance?
Annual functional safety verification per IEC 61511 is recommended; automated self-test routines execute at power-up and during scheduled diagnostics to validate sensor health and logic solver response.
Is brass sensor material compatible with corrosive media such as caustic solutions or acids?
Brass is not recommended for strong alkalis or mineral acids; for aggressive chemistries, consult Drexelbrook’s material compatibility guide or specify optional Hastelloy®-clad probe variants.
