The HLV Series is a paddle-type level switch designed to detect material levels within a tank, providing alerts based on user-defined measurement parameters. This device is characterized by its robust structure, high reliability, and long operational life. It is primarily utilized in hoppers for measuring granular materials such as powders, grains, and lumps.
Function Description
The HLV Series operates on a simple principle: when powered, a motor rotates a shaft and an attached paddle. If the rotating paddle does not encounter any material in the container, the motor operates without load, and a micro switch remains in the "Off" position. Conversely, if the paddle comes into contact with material, its rotation stops, activating the micro switch to the "On" position. A key feature is the built-in clutch-type slip mechanism, which prevents the motor from being overloaded even if excessive force is applied to the paddle.
Important Technical Specifications
The HLV Series is available in two main sub-series: HLV-300 and HLV-310, each with several models tailored for different applications.
HLV-300 Series:
- Installation: Top or Side mounting, with Flange or Screw type connections.
- Ambient Temperature: -20°C to +60°C.
- Process Temperature:
- HLV-300: Max. 80°C
- HLV-300H: Max. 180°C
- HLV-300-Ex: Max. 80°C
- Process Pressure: ATM (Atmospheric).
- Power Source: AC 110V / 220V, 60Hz.
- Power Consumption: Approximately 2.5VA.
- Number of Rotation: 2 rev./min.
- Switch Form: SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw).
- Enclosure:
- HLV-300, HLV-300H: Weather-Proof (IP65)
- HLV-300-Ex: Ex-Proof (Ex d IIB T6, IP65)
- Switch Type: Micro Switch.
- Length (Shaft):
- HLV-300, HLV-300H: 300mm (Std.) / Max. 600mm
- HLV-300-Ex: 300mm (Std.) / Max. 4,000mm (Extension Ver.)
- Process Connection: PF 1"(M) (Std.).
- Material:
- Housing: AL.C (Aluminum Casting)
- Shaft, Paddle: SUS 304 (Stainless Steel 304)
- Cable Entry: PF 3/4"(F) (Std.).
HLV-310 Series:
- Installation: Top or Side mounting, with Flange type connections.
- Ambient Temperature: -20°C to +60°C.
- Process Temperature:
- HLV-310: Max. 80°C
- HLV-310H: Max. 180°C
- HLV-310HP: Max. 200°C
- Process Pressure: ATM (Atmospheric).
- Power Source: AC 110V / 220V, 60Hz.
- Power Consumption: Approximately 2.5VA.
- Number of Rotation: 2 rev./min.
- Switch Form: SPDT.
- Enclosure: Weather-Proof (IP65).
- Switch Type: Micro Switch.
- Length (Shaft): 300mm (Std.) / Max. 4,000mm.
- Process Connection: 65A JIS 10K RF (Std.).
- Material:
- Housing: AL.C
- Protection Tube: SUS 304
- Shaft, Paddle: SUS 304
- Cable Entry: PF 3/4"(F) (Std.).
Usage Features
- Ease of Installation and Operation: The HLV Series is designed for simple installation and straightforward operation.
- Simple Structure: Its uncomplicated design facilitates easy maintenance.
- Variety of Paddle Types: The availability of various paddle types allows for adaptation to different material characteristics and application requirements.
- Explosion-Proof Versions: Models like the HLV-300-Ex are suitable for use in hazardous (explosion-prone) areas, complying with Ex d IIB T6 and IP65 standards.
- Applications:
- Building material industry (e.g., lime, casting).
- Food industry (e.g., cells, flour, salt).
- Plastic industry (e.g., large-weight plastic particles).
- Chemical industry.
Installation Precautions:
- High Level Sensor: Install where the paddle can sense the highest level, considering the material's repose angle.
- Low Level Sensor: Install in a location where residual material on the wall will not affect paddle action after discharge.
- Avoid Adhesive Materials: Not recommended for highly adhesive materials (high viscosity).
- Location: Avoid shaking, obstructions, and areas near outlets prone to fluid movement, mechanical damage, or chattering.
- Environmental Checks: Verify hopper temperature and pressure against specifications.
- Paddle Fit: Use folding paddles if the standard paddle does not fit the connection.
- Condensation Prevention: If housing temperature differs significantly from ambient, apply solvent filling or Gortex (Ventilation) to prevent condensation.
- Standard Components: Use standard flanges or screws.
- Ex-Proof Zones: For Ex-proof zones, users must determine and install the appropriate Ex-proof certified product.
- Paddle Protection: Install protectors to prevent damage to the paddle, especially if the load is heavier than specified.
- Side Mounting: For side mounting, the electric wire entrance should face the ground to maintain waterproof function. Avoid double-wing type paddles for low-level side mounting.
- Outdoor Installation: Install a sun cover to mitigate temperature increases.
- Clearance: Ensure paddles do not contact hopper ducts or walls.
- Assembly: After installation, assemble the product cover before powering on.
- Fasteners: Use washers between bolts and nuts to prevent loosening.
- Sealing: Ensure the product is securely bonded to the hopper and use gaskets between flanges, considering content temperature and vessel pressure.
- Impact: Do not apply high impact to the product.
Wiring:
- Power Specification: Connect according to AC 110V / AC 220V power specifications.
- Safety: Do not wire when power is applied.
- Grounding: For Ex-proof types, connect external/internal ground terminals. Use terminal lugs for wiring.
- Grounding Specifications: External ground wire should be 4mm² (4mmSQ). Internal ground wire should be the same size as the power line, with a 3.1mm² (3.1mmSQ) terminal lug. If the power line is larger than 3.1mm², connect the ground wire without a terminal lug.
- Ex-Proof Wiring: Use cable gland connections or metal pipe line lead-ins. For unused wire inlets, use a closed plug with an equivalent safety certificate.
Maintenance Features
- Periodic Inspection: Regular inspection (at least annually) is crucial for optimal performance and extended lifespan.
- Visual Check: Inspect the product's exterior for damage.
- Paddle Functionality: Manually rotate the paddle to ensure proper rotation.
- Cleaning: Regularly remove any measurements or foreign substances attached to the paddle to maintain precision.
- Power Off: Always turn off the power before performing any maintenance.
- Removal Precautions:
- Check the level and presence of material in the tank before removal.
- Wear gloves to prevent burns.
- Disassemble with power off.
- In explosive gas atmospheres, do not open the cover.
- Unlock the lock key (set screw) before removing the cover (for Ex-proof models).
- Ensure O-rings or gaskets are not damaged when opening or closing the cover.
- Grounding Reconnection: If the terminal lug is removed from the ground terminal, re-insert a washer to prevent loosening.
Safety and Environment:
- Tools: Use required tools to connect the product and vessel.
- Lock Key: Keep the lock key safe and ensure it is locked.
- Electric Shock: Pay attention to prevent electric shock during wiring.
- Disposal: Separate the amplifier and main unit from the housing before disposal. Discard metal and non-metallic materials. The product contains no mercury switch or other components that significantly impact the environment, requiring no special disposal attention.