FISCHER NC56 User manual

Operating manual
NC56
Capacitive filling level probe
09005621 • BA_EN_NC56 • Rev. ST4-A • 09/20 *09005621*

| Masthead FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
2/24 BA_EN_NC56
Masthead
Manufacturer: FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
Bielefelderstr. 37a
D-32107 Bad Salzuflen
Telephone: [phone]
Telefax: [phone]
eMail: [email protected]
web: www.fischermesstechnik.de
Technical editorial team: Documentation representative: T. Malischewski
Technical editor: R. Kleemann
All rights, also those to the translation, reserved. No part of this document may
be reproduced or processed, duplicated or distributed using electronic systems
or any other form (print, photocopy, microfilm or another process) without the
written consent of the company FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH, Bad
Salzuflen.
Reproduction for internal use is expressly allowed.
Brand names and procedures are used for information purposes only and do
not take the respective patent situation into account. Great care was taken
when compiling the texts and illustrations; Nevertheless, errors cannot be ruled
out. The company FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH will not accept any
legal responsibility or liability for this.
Subject to technical amendments.
© FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik 2020
Version history
Rev. ST4-A 09/20 Version 1: First issue

FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH Table of contents
BA_EN_NC56 3/24
Table of contents
1 Safety instructions .......................................................................................................... 4
1.1 General................................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Personnel Qualification........................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Risks due to Non-Observance of Safety Instructions............................................................. 4
1.4 Safety Instructions for the Operating Company and the Operator ......................................... 4
1.5 Unauthorised Modification...................................................................................................... 4
1.6 Inadmissible Modes of Operation........................................................................................... 5
1.7 Safe working practices for maintenance and installation work............................................... 5
1.8 Pictogram explanation............................................................................................................ 5
2 Product and functional description ............................................................................... 6
2.1 Delivery scope........................................................................................................................ 6
2.2 Intended use........................................................................................................................... 6
2.3 Device versions ...................................................................................................................... 6
2.4 Function diagram.................................................................................................................... 8
2.5 Design and mode of operation ............................................................................................... 8
3 Assembly.......................................................................................................................... 9
3.1 General................................................................................................................................... 9
3.2 Process connection ................................................................................................................ 9
3.3 Electrical connections............................................................................................................. 11
4 Start-up ............................................................................................................................. 12
4.1 General................................................................................................................................... 12
4.2 Calibration .............................................................................................................................. 12
5 Servicing........................................................................................................................... 14
5.1 Maintenance ........................................................................................................................... 14
5.2 Transport ................................................................................................................................ 14
5.3 Service.................................................................................................................................... 14
5.4 Disposal.................................................................................................................................. 14
6 Technical data.................................................................................................................. 15
6.1 General................................................................................................................................... 15
6.2 Input variables ........................................................................................................................ 15
6.3 Output variables ..................................................................................................................... 15
6.4 Measuring accuracy ............................................................................................................... 15
6.5 Auxiliary energy...................................................................................................................... 15
6.6 Operating conditions............................................................................................................... 16
6.7 Construction design................................................................................................................ 16
7 Order codes...................................................................................................................... 18
7.1 Accessories ............................................................................................................................ 19
8 Attachment ....................................................................................................................... 20

1 | Safety instructions FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
4/24 BA_EN_NC56
1 Safety instructions
1.1 General
This operating manual contains basic instructions for the installation, operation
and maintenance of the device that must be followed without fail. It must be
read by the installer, the operator and the responsible specialist personnel be-
fore installing and commissioning the device.
This operating manual is an integral part of the product and therefore needs to
be kept close to the instrument in a place that is accessible at all times to the re-
sponsible personnel.
The following sections, in particular instructions about the assembly, commis-
sioning and maintenance, contain important information, non-observance of
which could pose a threat to humans, animals, the environment and property.
The instrument described in these operating instructions is designed and manu-
factured in line with the state of the art and good engineering practice.
1.2 Personnel Qualification
The instrument may only be installed and commissioned by specialized person-
nel familiar with the installation, commissioning and operation of this product.
Specialized personnel are persons who can assess the work they have been
assigned and recognize potential dangers by virtue of their specialized training,
their skills and experience and their knowledge of the pertinent standards.
1.3 Risks due to Non-Observance of Safety Instructions
Non-observance of these safety instructions, the intended use of the device or
the limit values given in the technical specifications can be hazardous or cause
harm to persons, the environment or the plant itself.
The supplier of the equipment will not be liable for damage claims if this should
happen.
1.4 Safety Instructions for the Operating Company and the
Operator
The safety instructions governing correct operation of theinstrument must be
observed. The operating company must make them available to the installation,
maintenance, inspection and operating personnel.
Dangers arising from electrical components, energy discharged by the medium,
escaping medium and incorrect installation of the device must be eliminated.
See the information in the applicable national and international regulations.
Please observe the information about certification and approvals in the Tech-
nical Data section.
1.5 Unauthorised Modification
Modifications of or other technical alterations to the instrument by the customer
are not permitted. This also applies to replacement parts. Only the manufacturer
is authorised to make any modifications or changes.

FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH Safety instructions | 1
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1.6 Inadmissible Modes of Operation
The operational safety of this instrument can only be guaranteed if it is used as
intended. The instrument model must be suitable for the medium used in the
system. The limit values given in the technical data may not be exceeded.
The manufacturer is not liable for damage resulting from improper or incorrect
use.
1.7 Safe working practices for maintenance and installation work
The safety instructions given in this operating manual, any nationally applicable
regulations on accident prevention and any of the operating company's internal
work, operating and safety guidelines must be observed.
The operating company is responsible for ensuring that all required mainten-
ance, inspection and installation work is carried out by qualified specialized per-
sonnel.
1.8 Pictogram explanation
DANGER
Type and source of danger
This indicates a direct dangerous situation that could lead to death or serious
injury (highest danger level).
1. Avoid danger by observing the valid safety regulations.
WARNING
Type and source of danger
This indicates a potentially dangerous situation that could lead to death or ser-
ious injury (medium danger level).
1. Avoid danger by observing the valid safety regulations.
CAUTION
Type and source of danger
This indicates a potentially dangerous situation that could lead to slight or seri-
ous injury, damage or environmental pollution (low danger level).
1. Avoid danger by observing the valid safety regulations.
NOTICE
Note / advice
This indicates useful information of advice for efficient and smooth operation.

2 | Product and functional description FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
6/24 BA_EN_NC56
2 Product and functional description
2.1 Delivery scope
• Capacitive filling level probe NC56 as per specification (see order code)
• Operating manual
2.2 Intended use
The capacitive filling level probe NC56 serves to measure tank filling levels in
tanks containing fresh water, waste water, faeces, diesel fuel, chemicals and
extinguishing foam. Filling level heights of between 400 and 2000 mm can be
measured. The probe can be used regardless of the tank material (metal,
plastic or concrete).
Please contact the manufacturer before using this device with dirty or aggress-
ive media because the device needs to be adapted in terms of the parts that
come into contact with the media.
The device is to be exclusively used for the applications agreed between the
manufacturer and the user.
2.3 Device versions
Housing
Pipe connection
Protective tubing
Earth connection
M12 plug
IR receiver LEDLED lamp
4.8 x 0.8 mm
Compound mass
Fig.1: Product summary
Depending on the medium, the NC56 ca be supplied in various versions.

FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH Product and functional description | 2
BA_EN_NC56 7/24
NC56 2...
Water
wastewater
NC56 3...
Diesel
Heating oil
NC56 6...
Chemicals Rope probe
NC56 S...NC56 4...
Faeces
Foam
NC56 5...
1
2
4
3
5 6
7
Fig.2: Device versions
1 Probe housing 2 Pipe adapter
3 Spacer 4 Shrink-fit tubing insulation
5 Stainless steel 6 ECTFE insulation
7 Weight
2.3.1 Type plate
The presented type plates serve to show an example of the information shown.
The data shown is purely fictive, but does correspond to the actual conditions.
For more information, please see the order code at the end of these instruc-
tions.
1
2
3
4
+ 24 V DC
(brown)
(black)
(blue)
output
GND
MESS- UND
REGELTECHNIK
GmbH
D-32107 Bad Salzuflen
Art. No.
Medium
Output signal
Ub
Prod.-No.
Type NC56
NC562P1540CF2011
Water/waste water
0 ... 10 V DC
12 ... 32 V DC
2006923.01.001
022182
Order code
Approval code Serial number
Fig.3: Type plate

2 | Product and functional description FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
8/24 BA_EN_NC56
2.4 Function diagram
CE
CA
CA: Start capacity (probe free)
CE: End capacity (probe covered)
RxD
Min. Max.
+Ub
-Ub
Output
brown
blue
black
IR Status LED
Probe
µC
Fig.4: Function diagram
2.5 Design and mode of operation
An AC voltage signal is exerted onto two metal rods held at a defined distance
to each other. This means that the metal rods become a capacitor when dipped
into fluids. The capacitive values of this capacitor are primarily determined via
the filling level height and the resulting change in the dielectrics.
Electronics integrated into the device convert these capacity changes into linear
uniform electrical signals. A comparison is conducted with an infrared remote
control.

FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH Assembly | 3
BA_EN_NC56 9/24
3 Assembly
3.1 General
CAUTION
Risks connected to medium or system
The builder or operator of the tank system must implement suitable protective
measures for installation and maintenance work.
3.2 Process connection
• By authorized and qualified specialized personnel only.
• Assembly only with the delivered process connection.
• Note the maximum permissible operating pressure of 10 bar.
• Check that the device is compatible with the medium being measured.
As standard, the device is intended for assembly in a size 1¼ mounting flange.
If a protection tube is used, a pipe connection suitable for a size 2 mounting
flange is used. The NC56 is suited only for vertical installation and, if possible,
should be mounted at the highest point of the tank.
NOTICE!See also the information about the calibration in the section
"Start-up".
CA: Initial capacitance (probe exposed)
CE: End capacitance (probe covered)
Shortening
10 mm
Recalibration
Factory
calibration
CA
E
C
C
Distance increase
Probe rods too long
CS
CS: Stray capacitance
CS min
Fig.5: Assembly of the NC56
A distance of at least 10 mm between the tank bottom and probe rods must be
observed. If the probe was not ordered in the precise length required, the rods
can be shortened by the user.
In the case of non-conductive fluids and very short electrodes, the impact of the
stray capacitance of the environment will increase. For this reason, the probe
should be installed in the middle of the tank if possible. The further the metal
walls or metal frame from the electrodes, the lower the effect of this stray capa-
citance.
Pulsating impacts on the tank system can cause functional impairments on the
device.

3 | Assembly FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
10/24 BA_EN_NC56
3.2.1 Shortening the probe rods
CAUTION
Damage to coating
Insulated electrodes can become unusable as a result of rough impacts and
shocks (e.g. hitting the floor).
If you need to shorten the electrodes, proceed as follows:
• Unscrew the clamping screw by 2 turns.
• Pull the probe rods out.
• Shorten the probe rods to the desired length on the head end.
• Remove 21 mm of the insulation (shrink-fit tubing) on the head end. It is
best to remove the ECTFE coating with a belt sander.
• Insert the electrodes to the noticeable stop point. Tighten the clamping
screws until the screw head lies flat on the surface.
NOTICE!If the rods are shortened, the probe must be recalibrated during
the start-up process.
Removal of insulation
Clamping screw
21
A/F10
Level screw
Fig.6: Shortening the probe rod
Model Length of probe rod
Without protection tube Installation length + 25 mm
With protection tube Installation length + 37 mm

FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH Assembly | 3
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3.3 Electrical connections
• By authorized and qualified specialized personnel only.
• When connecting the unit, the national and international electro-technical
regulations must be observed.
• Disconnect the system from the mains, before electrically connecting the
device.
• Install the consumer-adapted fuses.
• Do not connect the connector if strained.
2 1
3 4
A
1 Supply +U b
2 nc
3 Supply
4 Output
-Ub
+Sig
Brown
White
Blue
Black
Coding
M12 plug
Tank
Fig.7: Electrical connections
Filling level probe Power Supply
Output signal
Input signal
+Sig
+Ub
-Ub -Sig
+Ub
-Ub
C
DC
AC/DC
+ -
Fig.8: 3W connection
The permitted operating voltage and the load impedance for the signal output
are stated in the technical data. The internal signal ground is connected to the
supply ground. This means that the output signal is free of interference levels
on the power supply lines.
To avoid measurement errors due to conducted interference, we recommend
that you realize potential equalization between the probe and the tank by con-
necting both together to a clean earth ground, particularly in the case of con-
ductive liquids.
In the case of plastic tanks, only the ground connection of the probe must be
connected with a clean earth ground.

4 | Start-up FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
12/24 BA_EN_NC56
4 Start-up
4.1 General
All electrical lines must have been installed properly before the start-up takes
place. All connections must be arranged so that there are no mechanical forces
acting on the device.
• Check that the defined safety measures for tank systems have been ob-
served.
• Check that the mechanical installation is correct in accordance with the ap-
plicable erection regulations for tank systems.
• Make sure that the device is protected from the effects of frost.
• Switch the supply voltage on. A small light diode flashes regularly and
briefly as a function control.
• This completes the start-up.
NOTICE!The probe was calibrated to the ordered installation dimension.
An on-site calibration is therefore unnecessary.
If for some reason a recalibration does become necessary, proceed as de-
scribed below.
4.2 Calibration
1
2
3
4
5
6
Data transfer
Operation/saving
Fig.9: Calibration
For the calibration, you need an infrared remote control of type EU04 (see ac-
cessories).
1Remove control EU04 2Filling level probe
3MIN button 4MAX button
5Status LED 6Infrared receiver LED
The calibration takes place in two stages:
1. Minimum filling level
wZero point calibration
1. Reduce the level in the tank to the lowest filling level.
2. Press and hold the " MIN " button.
ÊThe status LED flashes quickly. After 2 to 3 seconds, the LED lights up
permanently. This is how the device indicates that the zero point has
been stored.
3. Now release the button.
uThe zero point has been calibrated.
2. Maximum filling level
wCalibration of the measurement range (end value)
1. Fill the tank to the highest filling level.
2. Press and hold the " MAX " button on the infrared remote control.
ÊThe status LED flashes quickly. After 2 to 3 seconds, the LED lights up
permanently. This is how the device indicates that the end value has
been stored.
3. Now release the button.
uThe end value has been calibrated.
uThe calibration process is complete.

FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH Start-up | 4
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Useful information about the calibration
If the filling levels change, the calibration can be repeated at any time. If just
one of the two filling levels changes, it is sufficient to recalibrate only the corres-
ponding value.
If you wish, you can use only part of the electrode length as the measuring dis-
tance. However, the shorter the measuring distance, the lower the precision.
The best results are achieved if the electrodes are only just wetted for the zero
point calibration and are almost but not quite fully submerged for the end point
calibration.
The output signal of the probe depends linearly on the wetting level of the elec-
trodes. The filling level is proportional to the filling volume in a cylindrical tank.
NOTICE!This simple ratio no longer applies in the case of complex tank
forms. Depending on the tank geometry, the filling level and tank content
can differ significantly.
In the case of non-conductive fluids and very short electrodes, the impact of the
stray capacitance of the environment will increase. For this reason, the probe
should be installed in the middle of the tank if possible. The further the metal
walls or metal frame from the electrodes, the lower the effect of this stray capa-
citance.
If several filling level probes lie close together, all probes can be calibrated at
the same time with an infrared remote control. However, if you want to avoid
this, it is generally sufficient to specifically target the probe to be calibrated.
Nevertheless, the safest way to proceed is to deactivate all of the other probes
for the duration of the calibration.

5 | Servicing FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
14/24 BA_EN_NC56
5 Servicing
5.1 Maintenance
The instrument is maintenance-free. We recommend the following regular in-
spection to guarantee reliable operation and a long service life:
• Check the function in combination with downstream components.
• Check the leak-tightness of the pressure connection lines.
• Check the electrical connections.
The exact test cycles need to be adapted to the operating and environmental
conditions. In combination with other devices, the operating instructions for the
other devices also need to be observed.
5.2 Transport
The measuring device must be protected against impacts. It should be transpor-
ted in the original packaging or a suitable transport container.
5.3 Service
All defective or faulty devices should be sent directly to our repair department.
Please coordinate all shipments with our sales department.
WARNING
Process media residues
Process media residues in and ondismantled devices can be a hazard to
people, animals and the environment. Take adequate preventive measures. If
required, the devices must be cleaned thoroughly.
Return the device in the original packaging or a suitable transport container.
5.4 Disposal
Please help to protect the environment by always disposing of the work pieces
and packaging materials in compliance with the valid national waste and recyc-
ling guidelines or reuse them.

FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH Technical data | 6
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6 Technical data
6.1 General
General information
Type designation NC56
Measurement principle Continuous measurement of the capacity
change between two/three probe rods, de-
pending on the filling probe of a fluid.
Operating pressure Max. 10 bar
Number of electrodes 2 (3 for diesel)
Thread connection G 1¼’’ (for protective tubing version G2’’)
Protection class IP67 as per DIN EN 60529
Reference conditions (acc. to IEC 61298-1)
Temperature +15 to +25 °C
Relative humidity 45 … 75 %
Air pressure 86 to 106 kPa 860 to 1060 mbar
Installation position vertical
6.2 Input variables
Measuring range The measuring range lies between 400
mm and 2000 mm, depending on the
ordered probe length.
Other lengths available on request.
Input signal Probe rods covered: high capacity
Probe rods free: low capacity
6.3 Output variables
Current output Voltage output
Output signal 0 to 20 mA
4 to 20 mA
0 … 10 V
2 … 10 V
0 … 5V
1 … 5V
Load impedance (Ub – 9V)/20 mA > 5 kΩ
6.4 Measuring accuracy
Measurement deviation < 1 % FS
Temperature coefficient of the zero-point < 0.5 % FS/10 K
Temperature coefficient of the measuring
range
< 0.1 % FS/10 K
FS: Full Scale (measuring range)
6.5 Auxiliary energy
Current output Voltage output
Nominal voltage 24 V DC 24 V DC
Permitted op. voltage 9 to 32 V DC 12 to 32 V DC
Current draw (without signal) 30 mA 30 mA

6 | Technical data FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
16/24 BA_EN_NC56
6.6 Operating conditions
Ambient temperature range -20 °C ... +70 °C
Storage temperature range -40 °C ... +80 °C
Medium temperature range Max. 80°C
IP protection class IP67
EMC EN 61326-1:2013
EN 61326-2-3:2013
RoHS EN IEC 63000:2018
e-approval
Approval number
72/245/EEC
95/54/EC
E13*72/245/95/54*2182*00
6.7 Construction design
Electrical connection M12 connector 4-pin, male
Installation position vertical
6.7.1 Materials
Materials of the parts that come into contact with the medium
Probe rod (bare) Stainless steel 1.4404
with shrink-fit tubing Polyolefin
with coating ECTFE
Materials of the parts that come into contact with the surroundings
Housing POM-C (Polyoxymethylene (copolymer))
Compound mass Polyurethane
Spacer POM-C (Polyoxymethylene (copolymer))
M12 plug Polyamide
Earthing connection Brass, tin-coated

FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH Technical data | 6
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6.7.2 Dimension drawings
Probe with shrink-fit tubing Probe with 3 rods
(uncoated
Ø60 Ø60
39.5 39.5
20 20
G 1¼ G 1¼
Ø4.8
Ø4
Spacer every 500 mm
Installation length 400 ... 2000 mm
M12 plug connector
Spanner attachment
SW55
Spacer every 500 mm
Installation length 400 ... 2000 mm
Ø4
Probe with
coated rod
Protective tubing
Ø60 SW77
39.5
43
20
G 1¼ G 2
Ø4.8
Ø4
Spacer every 500 mm
Installation length 400 ... 2000 mm
adapted to the installation length
Ø40
28
3
octagonal
pipe adpater
coated
rod
Fig.10: Dimension drawing

7 | Order codes FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
18/24 BA_EN_NC56
7 Order codes
Housing material Connection
N C 5 6 2 0 1 1
1 2 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 123 4
Installation length
Version
Output signal
Operating voltage
Type
Code no.
Version
Design:
[1] (Code no.) Rod 1 Rod 2 Rod 3
2Water
waste water
Shrink-fit tubing Bare (1.4404) ---
3Diesel Bare (1.4404) Bare (1.4404) Bare (1.4404)
4Faeces ECTFE
coating
Bare (1.4404) ---
5Extinguishing
foam agent
ECTFE
coating
Bare (1.4404) ---
SCable probe Steel cable
(1.4404)
Steel cable
(1.4404)
---
6Chemicals ECTFE
coating
ECTFE
coating
---
Casing material/connection:
[2] (Code no.)
0Plastic casing with size 1¼ for outside use
incl. size 2 protection tube
PFor outside use incl. size 2 protection tube
GFor outside use and bores for suction vehicles
(only for model 4 - Faeces)
Installation length (from sealing surface):
[3-6] (Code no.)
0400 400 mm
to
2000 2000 mm
The probe rods are produced in steps of 50 mm.
Output signal:
[7] (Code no.)
A0 to 20 mA
P4 to 20 mA
C0 to 10 V
Z2 to 10 V
U0 to 5 V
D1 to 5 V

FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH Order codes | 7
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Operating voltage:
[8] (Code no.)
E9 to 32 V (for current output)
F12 to 32 V (for voltage output)
Version:
[9-12] (Code no.)
2011 Version
7.1 Accessories
Order no. Designation No. of
poles
Length
06401993 Connection cable with M12 connector 4 poles 2 m
06401994 Connection cable with M12 connector 4 poles 5 m
06401563 Connection cable with M12 connector 4 poles 7 m
06401572 Connection cable with M12 connector 4 poles 10 m
Infrared remote control
Order no. Designation
EU04 Infrared remote control

8 | Attachment FISCHER Mess- und Regeltechnik GmbH
20/24 BA_EN_NC56
8 Attachment
Fig.11: CE_DE_NC56