IFM LX Series User manual

Operating instructions
Electronic level sensor
LR7020
LXxxxx
UK
80276036 / 00 01 / 2022

2
Contents
1 Preliminary note���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������4
1�1 Symbols used ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������4
2 Safety instructions �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������4
3 Items supplied������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������5
4 Getting started �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������5
4�1 Installation, Electrical connection �����������������������������������������������������������������5
4�2 Parameter setting �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������5
4�3 Example application ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������5
5 Functions and features ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������6
5�1 Applications ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������6
5�2 Restriction of the application area �����������������������������������������������������������������7
5�3 Special information on DNV-GL approval ������������������������������������������������������8
6 Function���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������8
6�1 Measuring principle ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������8
6�2 Set-up via IO-Link������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������9
6�3 Switching function������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������9
6�4 Probes for different tank heights������������������������������������������������������������������10
6�5 Defined state in case of a fault ��������������������������������������������������������������������10
6�6 IO-Link ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������10
7 Installation����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������10
7�1 Installation location / environment, operation with a
single probe ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������10
7�1�1 Minimum distances for installation in closed metal tanks ������������������� 11
7�1�2 Installation in pipes (bypass pipe, still pipe) ���������������������������������������12
7�1�3 Applications with viscous and fast flowing media �������������������������������12
7�1�4 Heavy soiling ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������13
7�1�5 Fill openings ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������13
7�1�6 Heavy foam build-up and turbulence��������������������������������������������������14
7�1�7 Notes on tank adjustment�������������������������������������������������������������������15
7�2 Installation location / environment, operation with a
coaxial probe �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������16
7�3 Installation of the probe �������������������������������������������������������������������������������17
7�3�1 Attaching the probe�����������������������������������������������������������������������������17

3
7�3�2 Installation of the coaxial pipe ������������������������������������������������������������17
7�4 Probe length ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������18
7�4�1 Shorten the probe�������������������������������������������������������������������������������18
7�4�2 Determine probe length L for single probes����������������������������������������19
7�4�3 Shortening of the coaxial pipe ������������������������������������������������������������19
7�4�4 Determine probe length L for coaxial probes��������������������������������������19
7�5 Installation of the unit with single probe�������������������������������������������������������20
7�5�1 Installation to G¾ process connection directly in the tank lid� ������������20
7�5�2 Installation in the tank lid using a G¾ flange plate �����������������������������20
7�5�3 Installation in open metal tanks ����������������������������������������������������������21
7�5�4 Installation in plastic tanks������������������������������������������������������������������22
7�6 Installation of the unit with coaxial probe in the tank �����������������������������������23
7�7 Alignment of the sensor housing �����������������������������������������������������������������23
8 Electrical connection������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������24
9 Operating and display elements ������������������������������������������������������������������������24
10 Parameter setting ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������25
10�1 Parameter setting using PC and USB IO-Link master�������������������������������25
10�2 Parameter setting via the memory plug�����������������������������������������������������25
10�3 Parameter setting during operation �����������������������������������������������������������26
10�4 Adjustable parameters�������������������������������������������������������������������������������26
11 Operation ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������28
11�1 Operation with single probe �����������������������������������������������������������������������28
11�2 Operation with coaxial probe ���������������������������������������������������������������������28
11�3 Function check�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������29
11�4 Operating and diagnostic messages via IO-Link ��������������������������������������29
11�5 Output response in different operating states ��������������������������������������������29
12 Technical data and scale drawing��������������������������������������������������������������������29
13 Maintenance / transport�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������30
14 Factory setting �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������31
15 Notes on parameter setting via IO-Link �����������������������������������������������������������32
15�1 Unit locking / data storage (as from IO-Link V1�1)�������������������������������������32

4
1 Preliminary note
1.1 Symbols used
►Instructions
> Reaction, result
[…] Designation of keys, buttons or indications
→Cross-reference
Important note
Non-compliance may result in malfunction or interference�
Information
Supplementary note�
2 Safety instructions
• The device described is a subcomponent for integration into a system�
- The manufacturer of the system is responsible for the safety of the system�
- The system manufacturer undertakes to perform a risk assessment and to
create a documentation in accordance with legal and normative requirements
to be provided to the operator and user of the system� This documentation
must contain all necessary information and safety instructions for the operator,
the user and, if applicable, for any service personnel authorised by the
manufacturer of the system�
• Read this document before setting up the product and keep it during the entire
service life�
• The product must be suitable for the corresponding applications and
environmental conditions without any restrictions�
• Only use the product for its intended purpose (→ Functions and features).
• Only use the product for permissible media (→ Technical data).
• If the operating instructions or the technical data are not adhered to, personal
injury and/or damage to property may occur�
• The manufacturer assumes no liability or warranty for any consequences
caused by tampering with the product or incorrect use by the operator�
• Installation, electrical connection, set-up, operation and maintenance of the unit
must be carried out by qualified personnel authorised by the machine operator�
• Protect units and cables against damage�

5
3 Items supplied
• Level sensor LR7020 or LXxxxx
• Operating instructions
In addition, the following is necessary for installation and operation
(→ Accessories):
• Probe (→ 11.1)
• Optional: coaxial pipe (→ 11.2)
• Mounting material (→ 11.1)
Only use accessories from ifm electronic gmbh!The optimum function is
not ensured when using components from other manufacturers�
Accessories: www.ifm.com
4 Getting started
For the most frequent applications the quick set-up described below is possible�
The quick set-up does not replace observance of the other chapters�
4.1 Installation, Electrical connection
►Install the unit correctly (→ 7) and (→ 8)
4.2 Parameter setting
On delivery the unit is not operational�
Notes on parameter setting via IO-Link (→ 15)
4.3 Example application
► Enter probe length (parameter [LEnG]). Example: [LEnG] = [1000] mm.
► Select the medium (parameter [MEdI]). Example: [MEdI] = [MId].
► Select type of probe used (parameter [Prob]). Example: [Prob] = [rod].
►Transfer the sensor data to the unit�
►Carry out tank adjustment according to the installation (button [tREF xxx])�
►Now all other settings can be carried out�
>The unit is ready for operation.
►Check whether the unit operates correctly�

6
5 Functions and features
The unit continuously detects the level in tanks�
A PC with USB IO-Link master or a correspondingly programmed memory
plug or a configured IO-Link environment is required to set the parameters
(→ 6.6), (→ 10)�
According to the current state of science the operation of the unit can be
classified to be harmless to human health� The radiated energy of the
microwaves is, for example, much below that of mobile phones�
5.1 Applications
• Water, water-based media
• Oils, oil-based media� (Only for operation with coaxial probe�)
• For applications under difficult environmental conditions (e�g� weather or harsh
cleaning processes) → Technical data sheet.
Application examples:
• Detection of coolant emulsion in a machine tool�
• Detection of cleaning liquid in a parts cleaning system�
• Monitoring of hydraulic oil in a hydraulic power unit�
(Only for operation with coaxial probe�)
• Detection of Diesel fuel�
(Only for operation with coaxial probe, in non hazardous areas!)

7
5.2 Restriction of the application area
Incorrect measurements / signal loss may be caused by the following
media:
- highly absorbing surfaces (e�g� foam)
- intensely bubbling surfaces
- Media which are very inhomogeneous, separate from each other thus
forming separation layers (e�g� oil layer on water)�
►Check the function by performing an application test�
►Installation in a steady area (→ 7.1.6)
> In case of signal loss, the unit switches the outputs to a defined
state (→ 6.5)�
• Use the product only for media to which the wetted materials are sufficiently
resistant (→ Technical data sheet).
• The unit is not suitable for bulk materials (e�g� plastic granulates)�
In case of operation with single probe:
• The unit is not suitable for applications where the probe is subjected to
permanent and high mechanical stress
(e�g� heavy movement of viscous media or fast flowing media)�
• When used in plastic tanks, deterioration caused by electromagnetic
interference from other devices may occur (noise immunity to EN61000-6-2)�
Corrective measures: (→ 7.5.4)�
• When operating with a single probe and small tanks (probe lengths shorter than
200 mm and less than 300 mm distance to the tank wall), interference from the
tank (resonances) may occur in rare cases. Corrective measures: (→ 7.1)
In case of operation with coaxial probe:
• Not suitable for soiled or viscous media, media containing solid particles and
media prone to formation of deposit�
• Maximum viscosity: 500 mPa
·
s (at 20°C)�

8
5.3 Special information on DNV-GL approval
For use under DNV-GL conditions (if device approval is available), observe
the following instructions:
• Single probes and coaxial probes up to a length of 500 mm can be
operated without support�
• For probe lengths from 500 mm to 2000 mm, coaxial probes must be
used� These must be supported additionally, either at half length or at
the end� The support must be suited to damp occurring vibrations�
• If using a coaxial pipe with a length of 700 mm or longer, additional
centering pieces must be mounted in this coaxial pipe (→ Accessories).
6 Function
6.1 Measuring principle
Fig. 6-1 Fig. 6-2 Fig. 6-3
D
The unit operates on the principle of guided wave radar� It measures the level
using electromagnetic pulses in the nanosecond range�
The pulses are transmitted by the sensor head and guided along the probe (Fig�
6-1)� When they hit the medium to be detected, they are reflected and guided back
to the sensor (Fig� 6-2)� The time between transmitting and receiving the pulse
directly relates to the travelled distance (D) and the current level� The reference for
distance measurement is the lower edge of the process connection�
In case of operation with a coaxial probe, the guided wave runs only along
the inside of the coaxial pipe (Fig� 6-3)�

9
6.2 Set-up via IO-Link
The device parameters are set via the IO-Link interface (→ 6.6) and (→ 10)�
6.3 Switching function
The unit signals via the switching outputs (OUT1 /OUT2) that a set limit has been
reached or that the level is below the limit�
The switching limits refer to the lower probe end�
The following switching functions can be selected:
• Hysteresis function / normally open (Fig. 6-4): [oux] = [Hno]
• Hysteresis function / normally closed (Fig. 6-4): [oux] = [Hnc]
First the set point (SP) is set, then the reset point (rP) with the requested
difference�
• Window function / normally open (Fig. 6-5): [oux] = [Fno]
• Window function / normally closed (Fig. 6-5): [oux] = [Fnc]
The width of the window can be set by means of the difference between
[FH] and [FL]. [FH] = upper value, [FL] = lower value.
Fig. 6-4 Fig. 6-5
SP
rP
t
L
FH
FL
1
0
1
0
FE
Fno
Fnc
L: level HY: hysteresis FE: window
For each switching output a switch-on and switch-off delay of max� 60 s can be set
(e�g� for especially long pump cycles); (→ 10.4)�

10
6.4 Probes for different tank heights
The unit can be installed in tanks of different sizes� Probes in different lengths are
available� To adapt to the tank height, each probe can be shortened� The minimum
probe length is 100 mm, the maximum probe length 2000 mm�
6.5 Defined state in case of a fault
• In case of a fault a state can be defined for each output�
• If a fault is detected or if the signal quality is below a minimum value, the
outputs pass into a defined state� For this case the response of the outputs can
be set via the parameter [FOUx] (→ 10.4)�
• Temporary loss of signal caused e�g� by turbulence or foam build-up can be
suppressed by a delay time (parameter [dFo] (→ 10.4))� During the delay time
the last measured value is frozen� If the measured signal is received again in
sufficient strength within the delay time, the unit continues to work in normal
operation� If, however, it is not received again in sufficient strength within the
delay time, the outputs pass into the defined state�
In case of heavy foam build-up and turbulence, note the examples of how
to create a steady area (→ 7.1.6)�
6.6 IO-Link
This unit has an IO-Link communication interface which requires an IO-Link
capable module (IO-Link master) for operation�
The IO-Link interface enables direct access to the process and diagnostic data
and provides the possibility to set the parameters of the unit during operation�
In addition, communication is possible via a point-to-point connection with a
USB IO-Link master�
The IODDs necessary for the configuration of the unit, detailed information about
process data structure, diagnostic information, parameter addresses and the
necessary information about required IO-Link hardware and software can be
found at www�ifm�com�
7 Installation
7.1 Installation location / environment, operation with a
single probe
• Vertical installation from the top is preferred�
►Observe the notes on tank adjustment (→ 7.1.7)�
• For installation in open tanks: (→ 7.5.3)

11
• For installation in plastic tanks: (→ 7.5.4)
• When operating the unit in small tanks (probe lengths shorter than 200 mm
and less than 300 mm distance to the tank wall), mount the unit off-centre
(eccentrically) to prevent possible interference from tank resonances�
7.1.1 Minimum distances for installation in closed metal tanks
Fig. 7-1 Fig. 7-2
without adjustment
A1
BA2A3
D
Installation distances with adjustment
(→ 7.1.7)
Installation distances without adjustment
A1: 10 mm *) A1: 10 mm *)
A2: 20 mm A2: 40 mm to even tank walls
50 mm to uneven tank walls (e�g�
supports)
A3: 20 mm to structures in the tank (B)
50 mm to other sensors type LR
A3: 50 mm to structures in the tank (B)
50 mm to other sensors type LR
D: ø 30 mm if installed in a connection
piece
D: No connection piece allowed
according to Fig� 7-2
*) Alternatively: Fix probe at the tank bottom. Observe notes (→ 7.1.3)�

12
For installation in connection pieces:
If a pipe is used to make the connection
piece (Fig� 7-3), it must not protrude
into the tank�The installation causes
interfering reflections which are not
suppressed by the tank adjustment�
Fig. 7-3
7.1.2 Installation in pipes (bypass pipe, still pipe)
The internal pipe diameter (d) must at least have the following value:
d With adjustment(→ 7.1.7) Without adjustment
Metal pipe ø 30 mm ø 100 mm with [MEdI] = [HIGH]
ø 200 mm with [MEdI] = [MId] (→ 10.4)
Plastic pipe *) ø 200 mm
*) Observe notes (→ 7.5.4)�
►If possible, mount the unit off-centre (eccentrically)�
Depending on the operating conditions (e�g� viscous medium / flow) the use
of centring pieces is recommended (→ Accessories).
The pipe must not be shorter than the probe�
7.1.3 Applications with viscous and fast flowing media
►If possible, install the unit in a bypass pipe / still pipe (→ 7.1.2) or a coaxial pipe
(→ 7.2)�
► In addition, the following aspects have to be considered:
►The probe must not be in contact with the tank wall / structures in the tank�
If required, increase the minimum lateral distances�
►If possible, fix the probe at the tank bottom so that it is electrically conductive,
e�g� using a sleeve (Fig� 7-4 and 7-5) or a drill hole in the tank bottom
(Fig� 7-6)�
► For installation according to Fig. 7-5: Increase parameter [LEnG] by (h) to
offset the length increase (h) (→ 10.4)�

13
► For installation according to Fig. 7-6: Reduce parameter [LEnG] by (t) to offset
the immersion depth (t) (→ 10.4)�
Fig. 7-4 Fig. 7-5 Fig. 7-6
h
t
If the probe is fixed at the tank bottom, a low level may already be detected
with empty tank�
►Adapt switch points if necessary�
►Check the correct function (in particular with empty tank)�
7.1.4 Heavy soiling
If the medium is highly polluted, there is the risk that a bridge forms between the
probe and the tank wall / inner wall of the pipe or structures in the tank�
►Increase minimum distances depending on the pollution intensity�
7.1.5 Fill openings
Do not install the unit in the immediate vicinity of a fill opening (Fig� 7-7)�
If possible, install a fill pipe (A) in the tank (Fig� 7-8)� Keep to the indicated
installation distances; if necessary, carry out a tank adjustment�
Fig. 7-7 Fig. 7-8
A

14
7.1.6 Heavy foam build-up and turbulence
Heavy foam build-up and turbulence may lead to incorrect measurements�
To prevent this:
►Install the sensor in a steady area�
Examples how to create a steady area:
• Use coaxial probe� Observe the application area of the coaxial probe (→ 5.2)�
• Installation in metal bypass or metal still pipe (Fig� 7-9)�
• Separation of the installation location by metal sheets / perforated sheets
(without figure)�
Fig. 7-9
d
d
AB
CD
d: minimum diameter (→ 7.1.2)
The access (A, B) must be above the max� level� The access (C, D) must
be below the min� level�
This ensures that neither foam nor turbulence impact the measurement� In
addition soiling (e�g� by solids in the medium) can also be avoided�
With increased foam build-up the setting [MEdI] = [MId] is recommended
(→ 10.4)�

15
7.1.7 Notes on tank adjustment
Tank adjustment (parameter [tREF]) reduces the effect of interference and
ensures a higher excess gain in difficult application conditions�
Only carry out a tank adjustment with the unit installed and preferably with
empty tank�
Two options are available for tank adjustment:
[Emty] =Adjustment of the complete probe (recommended)� For this option
the tank must be completely empty!
[FLnG] =Adjustment of the upper 50 mm from the lower edge of the process
connection�For this option the tank may be partly filled� The level
must, however, not be higher than max� 300 mm below the process
connection�
b
a
S
a:
b:
adjustment distance 50 mm with option [FLnG]
safety distance to the level (b ≥ 250 mm)
S: connection piece
For probe lengths L < 300 mm no tank adjustment is possible�
The parameter [tREF] is then not available. In this case:
►Adhere to all indicated installation distances (→ 7.1)�
No tank adjustment is necessary if all installation distances are adhered to�
The unit is then ready for operation without tank adjustment�

16
Only if data storage is required in an IO-Link application:
The tank adjustment is not saved via IO-Link� After a replacement it must
be carried out again�
More information about data storage: (→ 15.1)
7.2 Installation location / environment, operation with a
coaxial probe
►Observe the application area of the coaxial probe
(→ 5.2)�
• No minimum distances to the tank wall and
structures in the tank (B) are required�
• A tank adjustment is not required�
• Minimum distance to the bottom of the tank: 10 mm;
for slurry / sediment build-up:
►Increase the distance accordingly�
• The vent hole (A) must not be covered by mounting
elements or similar�
• Do not install the unit in the immediate vicinity of a
fill opening� No water jets must enter into the holes
of the coaxial pipe�
A
B
10 mm
Note in case of foam build-up: The vent of the coaxial pipe (A) must be
above the maximum level� The lower edge of the coaxial pipe must be
below the minimum level� This stops foam penetrating the coaxial pipe�

17
7.3 Installation of the probe
The probe is not supplied. It has to be ordered separately (→ 3).
7.3.1 Attaching the probe
►Screw the probe to the unit and tighten�
►Hold the probe at the point of attachment
with a second screwdriver to stop it turning
(Fig� 7-10)�
Recommended tightening torque:
4 Nm�
For ease of installation and removal the probe
connection can be rotated without restriction�
Even if rotated several times, there is no risk of
damage to the unit�
Fig. 7-10
6
In case of high mechanical stress (strong vibration, moving viscous media) it
may be necessary to secure the screw connection, e�g� by a screw retaining
compound�
Substances such as screw retaining compounds may migrate into the
medium�
►Make sure that they are harmless�
When using mechanical means of securing (e.g. tooth lock washer):
►Avoid protruding edges� They may cause interference reflection�
7.3.2 Installation of the coaxial pipe
This subchapter is only relevant if the unit is to be operated with a coaxial probe�
The coaxial pipe and the probe must be of the same length� The coaxial
pipe can be shortened (→ 7.4.3)�

18
►Slide the seal (A) onto the thread of the
sensor�
►Slide the coaxial pipe (B) onto the probe�
Carefully centre it and carefully move the
probe through the centring piece (C) - for
lengths > 1400 mm through both centring
pieces - of the coaxial pipe� Do not
damage the centring pieces�
►Screw onto the sensor thread and tighten�
Recommended tightening torque: 35 Nm.
A
C
B
32
32
If used under DNV GL conditions (if approval available for the device) and if
a coaxial pipe of 700 mm or longer is used, additional centring pieces must
be mounted in this coaxial pipe ( → Accessories).
7.4 Probe length
7.4.1 Shorten the probe
The probe can be shortened to adapt to different tank heights�
Ensure that the probe length is not below the minimum permissible probe
length (Lmin) of 100 mm� The unit does not support probe lengths below
100 mm�
For probe lengths < 300 mm no tank adjustment is possible (→ 7.1.7)�
►Screw the probe to the unit�
►Mark the desired length (L) on the probe�
The reference point is the lower edge of
the process connection (Fig� 7-11)�
►Remove the probe from the unit�
►Shorten the probe at the mark�
►Remove all burrs and sharp edges�
►Screw the probe to the unit again and
tighten it (→ 7.3.1)�
Fig. 7-11
Lmin
L
Lmin= 100 mm

19
7.4.2 Determine probe length L for single probes
►Precisely measure the probe length L� The reference point is the lower edge of
the process connection (Fig� 7-11)�
►Note down L� It is needed for setting the device parameters (→ 10.4)�
7.4.3 Shortening of the coaxial pipe
The coaxial pipe and the probe must be of the same length:
►Remove fastening bracket and
centring piece (A, B) (Fig� 7-12)�
►Shorten the coaxial pipe to the
requested length: LK = L + 9 mm
►After shortening, at least one hole (C)
for insertion of the fixing bracket has
to be left�
►Remove all burrs and sharp edges�
►Insert centring piece (A) at the
lower end of the pipe (for lengths >
1400 mm use a second centring piece
in the middle of the pipe) and attach
it using the fixing bracket (B) at the
lower hole (C)�
Fig. 7-12
AB
C
LK = length of the coaxial pipe
L = length of the probe from the lower
edge of the process connection
(→ 7.4.1)
7.4.4 Determine probe length L for coaxial probes
►Measure the exact total length LK of the coaxial pipe (Fig� 7-12, on the right)�
► Deduct 9 mm from the total length of the coaxial pipe: LK – 9 mm = L.
►Note down L� It is needed for setting the device parameters (→ 10.4)�

20
7.5 Installation of the unit with single probe
Before installing and removing the unit: Make sure that no pressure is
applied to the system and that there is no medium in the tank that could
leak� Also always take into account the potential dangers related to extreme
machine and medium temperatures�
For installation in closed metal tanks, the tank lid serves as a launching plate R
(Fig� 7-13 and 7-15)� Observe the notes on the launching plate (→ 11.1)
7.5.1 Installation to G¾ process connection directly in the tank lid.
The sealing ring on the sensor is used as process
seal�
The upper sealing area on the process connection
must be flush with the tapped hole�
►Lightly grease the sensor thread with a suitable
paste�
►Insert the unit into the process connection�
► Tighten it using a spanner. Tightening torque:
35 Nm�
Fig. 7-13
R
32
7.5.2 Installation in the tank lid using a G¾ flange plate
Fig. 7-14 Fig. 7-15
d
R
AB
►Arrange for a hole in the tank lid� Observe diameter (d) to enable sufficient
transfer of the measured signal to the probe (Fig� 7-14)� The diameter (d)
depends on the wall thickness of the tank lid:
Wall thickness [mm] 1���5 5���8 8���11
d [mm] 35 45 55
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