Votronic Tank Sensor FW 120 - User Manual

Installation and Operating Manual
Tank Sensor FW 120 For Tank Height 40 cm - 120 cm, 12 V / 24 V No. 0256
Tank Sensor FW 240 For Tank Height 80 cm - 240 cm, 12 V / 24 V No. 0258
Level Measuring Sensor for Water and Hydrous Media
The VOTRONIC Tank Sensor FW is a special development for water tanks in fire fighting vehicles. It allows exact
electric remote measurement of the tank level.
The sensor supplies electrical unit signals (voltage signal 0…10 Volts or current signal 4…20 mA) to the
connection of various display and evaluation units (even possible for several units):
Such as to the VOTRONIC remote indicator LED Tank Display, the VOTRONIC switching unit Multiswitch
FW or to
external units, pointer indicators, board computers etc.
• Suitable for plastic and metal tanks
• No mechanically moved parts, fully electronic capacitive measuring method
• The electronic system is sealed waterproof and vibration-proof
• Free installation, also subsequently, at the upper side of the tank or near the tank for space reasons.
• Freely adjustable minimum and maximum levels.
• Independent of pressure, no falsification of measured values in case of pressure filling etc.
• Linear characteristic line of the filling height.
• Protection against wrong polarization, overvoltage, short-circuit and overload.
• Safety due to internal test procedures being executed continuously.
With 0…10 V operation, the Tank Sensor FW is able to manage up to 4 Remote Indicators VOTRONIC LED Tank
Display.
Safety Regulations:
Appropriate Application:
The Tank Sensor FW has been designed according to the valid safety regulations.
Appropriate application is restricted to:
1. Level measuring of water and hydrous media.
2. With extra low safety voltage.
3. In consideration of the indicated cable cross sections.
4. Observing the indicated fuse rates for the supplied operating voltage.
5. In technically faultless condition.
Never use the unit at locations where the risk of gas or dust explosion exists and don’t use it for safety related
applications!
• Cables are always to be laid in such a way that damage is excluded. Observe to fasten them tightly.
• The unit is to be disconnected from any connection prior to execution of electrically welding or work on the
electric system.
• The user/buyer is obliged to observe any construction and safety regulations.
• The unit is not equipped with parts, which can be replaced by the user.
• Non-observance may result in injury or material damage.
• The warranty period is 36 months from the purchase date (against presentation of the sales slip or invoice).
• The warranty will be void in case of any inappropriate utilisation of the unit, if it is used beyond the technical
specification, in case of improper operation or external intervention. We do not assume any liability for any
damage resulting hereof. The liability exclusion is extended to any service being executed by third, which has
not been ordered by us in writing. Service is to be effected exclusively by VOTRONIC Lauterbach/GERMANY.

Summary

Level Measuring Sensor Functionality

Sensor Signal Output and Connectivity

Details the electrical signals (0-10V, 4-20mA) and compatible display units for the sensor.

Key Features and Benefits

Highlights features like electronic measurement, waterproof design, adjustable levels, and protection.

Safety Regulations and Guidelines

Appropriate Application

Specifies the intended use for water and hydrous media with extra low safety voltage.

General Safety Precautions

Outlines warnings against hazardous environments, proper cable management, and electrical work.

Warranty Information

Details the 36-month warranty period and conditions that may void it.

Tank Probe Installation

Probe Placement and Cable Handling

Guidance on positioning the probe cable for accurate measurements and avoiding damage.

Tank Common Connection

Connecting to Tank Contents

Details how to establish a conductive connection to the tank contents for metal and plastic tanks.

Sensor Installation

Mounting the Sensor Unit

Instructions for installing the sensor unit near the tank bushing and managing probe cable length.

Voltage Output Configuration (0-10 V)

Setting the 0-10 V Output Mode

Explains how to configure the sensor for 0-10V output using micro slide switches.

Voltage Output 0-10 V Connection Plans

Metal Flange Common Connection Diagram

Illustrates the wiring for 0-10V output using a metal flange for the common connection.

Stainless Steel Screw Common Connection Diagram

Illustrates the wiring for 0-10V output using a stainless steel screw for the common connection.

Probe Installation Warning

Important safety reminder regarding the placement of the residual probe line to prevent interference.

Current Output Configuration (4-20 mA)

Setting the 4-20 mA Output Mode

Explains how to configure the sensor for 4-20mA output using micro slide switches.

Current Output 4-20 mA Connection Plans

Metal Flange Common Connection Diagram (4-20 mA)

Illustrates the wiring for 4-20mA output using a metal flange for the common connection.

Stainless Steel Screw Common Connection Diagram (4-20 mA)

Illustrates the wiring for 4-20mA output using a stainless steel screw for the common connection.

Level Adjustment Procedure

Setting the Full Level

Instructions to fill the tank and adjust the 'Full' setting using the designated screw.

Setting the Empty Level

Instructions to empty the tank and adjust the 'Empty' setting using the designated screw.

Maintenance Recommendations

Unit Maintenance

States the unit is maintenance-free but recommends periodic checks of connections.

Failure Corrective Actions

Troubleshooting Voltage Output (0-10 V)

Guides on diagnosing no display reaction or constant 100% display issues.

Troubleshooting Current Output (4-20 mA)

Guides on diagnosing no display reaction or constant 100% display issues for 4-20mA mode.

Technical Specifications

Operating Modes and Voltage

Lists operating modes (0-10V, 4-20mA), operating voltage, and board voltage range.

Physical and Environmental Data

Provides details on tank height, temperature range, protection class, dimensions, and weight.

Compliance and Certifications

Lists declarations of conformity and compliance with various UK and EU standards.

Delivery Scope and Disposal

Included Components

Details the items included in the delivery scope: sensor, probe cable, and manual.

Recycling and Disposal

Information on proper disposal of the device at its end of useful life.

Votronic Tank Sensor FW 120 Specifications

General

Measuring principle	Capacitive
Type	Tank sensor
Operating voltage	12 V DC
Protection class	IP67
Material	Stainless steel