Series OLS Optical Level Switch

Optical Level Switch Low Cost, Compact, LED Indication, No Moving Parts

Low Cost, Compact, LED Indication, No Moving Parts

The SERIES OLS Optical Level Switches are a low cost, rugged optical level switch that indicates the presence or absence of liquid via infrared light that is reflected back through the prism lens. It also provides rapid response while employing no moving parts for stable process control. The bright red and green LED’s indicate the presence or absence of liquid for true, local indication. Three optional materials, 316 SS, polysulfone and PFA provide application flexibility. Compact switch can be quickly mounted horizontally or vertically for each installation.

PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION
The optical level switch employs an LED, which transmits infrared light. This light is sent through a prism and reflected back to a photo-transistor utilizing two 90° light reflections. With the prism surrounded by a gas, the light source is cast back to the photo-transistor. When a translucent liquid is introduced to the prism at or above the point where the light source makes contact with the prism, the light is reflected into the liquid, not allowing the photo-transistor to energize.

Product Applications

  • Food and beverage systems
  • Liquid holding tanks
  • Hydraulic reservoirs
  • Sumps
  • Pharmaceutical systems
  • Air conditioning systems
Service: Noncoating compatible liquids.
Wetted Materials: See chart on Catalog page.
Temperature Limit: Process: OLS-10, 11: 200°F (93.3°C), OLS-12: 120°F (48.9°C); Ambient: OLS-10, 11: 175°F (79.4°C), OLS-12: 120°F (48.9°C).
Pressure Limit: OLS-11, 12: 200 psig (13.8 bar); OLS-10: 1000 psig (69 bar).
Repeatability: ±0.02"; (0.5 mm).
Switch Type: NPN open collector.
Power Requirements: 10 to 28 VDC.
Output Signal: Vout (max.) = 28 VDC, Isink (max.) = 100 mA.
Current Consumption: 35 mA max.
Electrical Connections: 38" (965.2 mm) 3 conductor cable, 22 AWG wire.
Process Connection: 1/2" male NPT.
Mounting Orientation: Can be mounted in any position.
Specific Gravity: No minimum.
Weight: 3 oz (0.085 kg).
  • Compact switch can be quickly mounted horizontally or vertically for each installation
  • Bright red and green LED’s indicate the presence or absence of liquid for true, local indication
  • Provides rapid response while employing no moving parts for stable process control
  • Three optional materials, 316 SS, polysulfone and PFA provide application flexibility