K-TEK, a leading manufacturer of state-of-the-art level instrumentation for liquid measurement, announced the LS Series of magnetically coupled level switches. Featuring a compact switching mechanism that is isolated from the process fluid, the devices are designed to handle a wide range of demanding applications, including low specific gravity (>0,25), high temperature (up to 538°C), and high pressure (up to 31 MPa). The LS Series features a unique cam action switching mechanism which means no maintenance and more reliable readings because there are no bias springs to adjust or maintain as parts age. In addition, an external 360° adjustable switch mechanism eliminates the conventional, large, lid housing. This reduces the potential for switch failure due to high temperatures or trapped moisture.
The LS Series switches are designed for power plants, refineries, and offshore platforms.
These point level switches are available with a wide variety of customised floats and displacers to accommodate the specific gravity requirements of virtually any fluid application.
"While mechanical cage level switches are a fairly dated technology, continuous research and development have led to tremendous innovations," said Kevin Hambrice, director of Marketing, K-TEK. "LS Series features, like the cam action switch and 360° external adjustability, free plants from the day-to-day hassles that accompany conventional cage level switch designs and result in increased reliability, decreased maintenance, and lower overall cost of ownership."
The LS Series are magnetically coupled level switches that provide a variety of tank side chamber and top insertion configurations. The unique design isolates the switching mechanism from the process fluid, eliminating problems related to coating, plating, fouling, fugitive emissions, and hazardous material leaks.
The streamlined design of the LS Series features a 360° externally adjustable, cam action switching mechanism. This means there are no bias springs to adjust and maintain as parts age. The result is more reliable readings, zero maintenance, and a longer life for the device. There is also no bulky housing cover to remove, eliminating the potential for switch failure due to high temperatures or trapped moisture. Centre-to-centre dimensions can be matched to any competing model for easy drop-in replacement.
LS Series devices use either a float or displacer. As the fluid in the vessel rises or falls, the position of the float or displacer changes. Magnets inside the switch post, attached to the float or displacer, move with the changing level. A switch attached to the exterior of the switch post detects the magnet's movement and transfers the contact positions. Such an approach provides one-step access to the switching mechanism, much easier than having to remove the bulky housing of a conventional cage level switch. Adding isolation valves on the inlet and outlet of the cage allows the entire unit to be removed without draining the vessel.
LS Series switches can be configured for single or multiple switch points, thus measuring either upper fluid or interface level in tanks containing multiple fluids, such as oil and water.
A wide variety of process connection options are available for challenging measurements, from condensate to CO2 to crude oil. Configurations include side/side, side/bottom and top mount. Process connection types include flanges (slip on and weld neck), socket weld, and NPT. K-TEK offers a complete line of ANSI, DIN, HG, and almost any customer-specified flange sizes. Optionally available are stilling wells and support tubes; high temperature and cryogenic insulation; and vent, drain, and isolation valves.
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