MAGNETROL Echotel® 910 Series Ultrasonic Level Switch

Overview

The MAGNETROL Echotel® 910 Series Ultrasonic Level Switch is an integral-design, self-contained point-level detection instrument engineered for reliable, maintenance-free operation in demanding industrial process environments. Utilizing high-frequency ultrasonic time-of-flight measurement, the device detects the presence or absence of liquid at a fixed sensing point without mechanical moving parts or direct contact with process media. The transducer emits a short ultrasonic pulse toward the liquid surface; when liquid is present, the acoustic impedance shift generates a strong reflected signal that triggers the internal logic circuit. In air or vapor-only conditions—such as during vessel emptying—the echo amplitude remains below the threshold, maintaining the default relay state. This principle ensures consistent performance across a wide range of clean liquids, wastewater streams, hydrocarbons, solvents, food-grade fluids, and pharmaceutical intermediates—provided the medium exhibits sufficient acoustic coupling and minimal foam or heavy vapor turbulence.

Key Features

• Integral construction eliminates separate electronics housing and sensor assembly, reducing installation complexity and potential leak paths.
• Field-selectable high-level or low-level alarm configuration via DIP switches or push-button interface—no external programming tools required.
• Two independent electrical connections support flexible wiring layouts in confined enclosures or hazardous area junction boxes.
• Relay output options include 8 A DPDT gold-plated contacts for low-energy signaling and long-term reliability, or 5 A DPDT hermetically sealed relays rated for harsh chemical exposure and extended cycle life.
• No calibration or zero adjustment needed after installation—factory-trimmed sensitivity ensures repeatable setpoint accuracy across temperature ranges from –40 °C to +70 °C ambient.
• Mounting flexibility: certified for vertical insertion, side-wall mounting, or horizontal immersion—compatible with pressurized, vacuum, or atmospheric vessels.
• Extended warranty option available: standard 2-year limited warranty extendable to 3 years upon registration and compliance with recommended maintenance intervals.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Echotel 910 is validated for use with non-viscous, non-coating liquids having sound speed between 1200–1800 m/s and acoustic attenuation 10 mm thickness. Certified for Zone 0/1 (ATEX/IECEx) and Class I Div 1 (FM/CSA) hazardous locations when configured with appropriate intrinsic safety barriers or flameproof enclosures. Meets electromagnetic compatibility requirements per EN 61000-6-2 (immunity) and EN 61000-6-4 (emission), and conforms to UL 61010-1 for electrical safety in industrial control equipment. Documentation supports traceability to ISO 9001:2015 manufacturing controls and provides full test reports for SIL 2 capability assessment under IEC 61508 Part 2 (hardware fault tolerance) and Part 3 (systematic capability).

Software & Data Management

As a hardwired, analog-level switching device, the Echotel 910 operates independently of host control systems and requires no firmware updates, configuration software, or network connectivity. All operational parameters—including alarm mode, hysteresis (fixed at 5% of sensor length), and fail-safe behavior—are set locally via physical switches. For integration into modern DCS or SCADA platforms, the relay outputs comply with standard dry-contact interface protocols (e.g., ISA-50.00.01). Audit trails and change logs are maintained manually per site-specific GLP/GMP documentation practices; no electronic audit trail or 21 CFR Part 11 compliance features are implemented, consistent with its role as a standalone safety-rated level switch.

Applications

Typical deployment scenarios include pump protection in sump pits, overfill prevention in storage tanks (chemical, fuel, edible oil), interface detection in separator vessels, batch-level verification in CIP skids, and low-level dry-run safeguarding in centrifugal pumps. Widely adopted in wastewater treatment plants (ISO 14001-aligned operations), bulk liquid terminals (API RP 2510 compliant), dairy processing lines (3-A Sanitary Standards), and API 750-covered hydrocarbon facilities. Performance validation data is available per ASTM D7480 for comparative benchmarking against float, capacitance, and tuning fork alternatives.

FAQ

Can the Echotel 910 detect interface levels between two immiscible liquids?
Yes—when the density and sound speed differential exceeds 15%, and the upper layer thickness is ≥25 mm, provided no emulsification or interfacial turbulence is present.
Is it suitable for use in stainless steel sanitary vessels with tri-clamp connections?
Yes—tri-clamp process adapters (1.5” and 2” ID) are available as factory-installed options, meeting 3-A SSI Standard 63-03 requirements.
Does the device require periodic recalibration during service life?
No—ultrasonic transducer sensitivity is factory-stabilized and drift-compensated; only visual inspection and functional test per IEC 61511 proof-test interval guidelines are recommended.
What is the maximum allowable process temperature for PPS-bodied units?
Continuous operation up to +100 °C; intermittent exposure to +120 °C permitted for ≤30 minutes per hour.
Can multiple Echotel 910 units be daisy-chained on a single power supply?
Yes—provided total current draw remains within PSU rating (max 120 mA per unit at 24 VDC) and voltage drop across cable run does not exceed 10% of nominal supply.