Vega EL 4 User manual

Operating Instructions
Conductive probe EL 4
Document ID:
32653
Conductive

Contents
1About this document
1.1Function.................................. 3
1.2Target group .............................. 3
1.3Symbolism used............................ 3
2For your safety
2.1Authorised personnel ........................ 4
2.2Appropriate use ............................ 4
2.3Warning about misuse ....................... 4
2.4General safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.5Safety instructions for Ex areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.6Environmental instructions..................... 5
3Product description
3.1Configuration .............................. 6
3.2Principle of operation ........................ 7
3.3Operation................................. 7
3.4Storage and transport ........................ 8
4Mounting
4.1General instructions ......................... 9
4.2Mounting instructions ........................ 9
5Connect to power supply
5.1Prepare the connection....................... 12
5.2Wiring plan................................ 12
6Set up
6.1General information ......................... 14
7Maintenance and fault rectification
7.1Maintenance .............................. 15
7.2Remove interferences ........................ 15
7.3Shortening the probe ........................ 15
7.4Instrument repair ........................... 15
8Dismounting
8.1Dismounting steps .......................... 17
8.2Disposal ................................. 17
9Supplement
9.1Technical data ............................. 18
9.2Dimensions ............................... 20
9.3Industrial property rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
9.4Trademark ................................ 21
2Conductive probe EL 4
Contents
32653-EN-090415

1About this document
1.1Function
This operating instructions manual provides all the information you
need for mounting,connection and setup as well as important
instructions for maintenance and fault rectification.Please read this
information before putting the instrument into operation and keep this
manual accessible in the immediate vicinity of the device.
1.2Target group
This operating instructions manual is directed to trained qualified
personnel.The contents of this manual should be made available to
these personnel and put into practice by them.
1.3Symbolism used
Information,tip,note
This symbol indicates helpful additional information.
Caution:If this warning is ignored,faults or malfunctions can
result.
Warning:If this warning is ignored,injury to persons and/or serious
damage to the instrument can result.
Danger:If this warning is ignored,serious injury to persons and/or
destruction of the instrument can result.
Ex applications
This symbol indicates special instructions for Ex applications.
lList
The dot set in front indicates a list with no implied sequence.
àAction
This arrow indicates a single action.
1Sequence
Numbers set in front indicate successive steps in a procedure.
Conductive probe EL 4 3
1About this document
32653-EN-090415

2For your safety
2.1Authorised personnel
All operations described in this operating instructions manual must be
carried out only by trained specialist personnel authorised by the plant
operator.
During work on and with the device the required personal protective
equipment must always be worn.
2.2Appropriate use
EL 4is a sensor for level detection.
You can find detailed information on the application range in chapter
"Product description".
Operational reliability is ensured only if the instrument is properly used
according to the specifications in the operating instructions manual as
well as possible supplementary instructions.
For safety and warranty reasons,any invasive work on the device
beyond that described in the operating instructions manual may be
carried out only by personnel authorised by the manufacturer.Arbitrary
conversions or modifications are explicitly forbidden.
2.3Warning about misuse
Inappropriate or incorrect use of the instrument can give rise to
application-specific hazards,e.g.vessel overfill or damage to system
components through incorrect mounting or adjustment.
2.4General safety instructions
This is a high-tech instrument requiring the strict observance of
standard regulations and guidelines.The user must take note of the
safety instructions in this operating instructions manual,the country-
specific installation standards as well as all prevailing safety
regulations and accident prevention rules.
The instrument must only be operated in a technically flawless and
reliable condition.The operator is responsible for trouble-free
operation of the instrument.
During the entire duration of use,the user is obliged to determine the
compliance of the required occupational safety measures with the
current valid rules and regulations and also take note of new
regulations.
4Conductive probe EL 4
2For your safety
32653-EN-090415

2.5Safety instructions for Ex areas
Please note the Ex-specific safety information for installation and
operation in Ex areas.These safety instructions are part of the
operating instructions manual and come with the Ex-approved
instruments.
2.6Environmental instructions
Protection of the environment is one of our most important duties.That
is why we have introduced an environment management system with
the goal of continuously improving company environmental protection.
The environment management system is certified according to DIN
EN ISO 14001.
Please help us fulfil this obligation by observing the environmental
instructions in this manual:
lChapter "Packaging,transport and storage"
lChapter "Disposal"
Conductive probe EL 4 5
2For your safety
32653-EN-090415

3Product description
3.1Configuration
The scope of delivery encompasses:
lEL 4point level sensor
lDocumentation
-this operating instructions manual
EL 4consists of the following components:
lHousing cover
lHousing
lProcess fitting with electrode
1
2
3
Fig.1:Conductive multiple rod electrode EL 4
1Housing cover
2Housing
3Process fitting
To create a measuring system you need one conductive probe and a
VEGATOR 256C,532 or 631 signal conditioning instrument.
Scope of delivery
Components
6Conductive probe EL 4
3Product description
32653-EN-090415

The type label contains the most important data for identification and
use of the instrument:
lArticle number
lSerial number
lTechnical data
lArticle numbers,documentation
The serial number allows you to access the delivery data of the
instrument via www.vega.com,"VEGA Tools"and "serial number
search".In addition to the type label outside,you can also find the
serial number on the inside of the instrument.
3.2Principle of operation
EL 4is a point level sensor with partly insulated conductive electrode
for level detection.
EL 4is very rugged and can be used in all areas of industrial process
technology.
The level switch can be used in conductive liquids such as e.g.water.
Typical applications are overfill and dry run protection.
The conductive measuring principle places no special requirements on
installation.Hence,many different applications can be equipped with
EL 4.
Conductive probes detect the product resistance when their electro-
des are covered by the product.
The switching signal is determined by the length or mounting position
of the respective electrode.
Alow alternating current flows through the electodes,is measured for
amplitude and phase position by the electronics of the signal
conditioning instrument and converted into a switching command.
EL 4is operated with an external processing unit.The connected
signal conditioning instrument powers EL 4and provides a switching
signal.Aconnected device can be activated directly with this switching
command (e.g.a warning system,aPLC,a pump,etc.).
You can find the exact range of the voltage supply in chapter
"Technical data"in the operating instructions manual of the signal
conditioning instrument.
3.3Operation
The probe does not have its own electronics.The measurement is
carried out via the connected signal conditioning instrument.
Type label
Application area
Functional principle
Power supply
Conductive probe EL 4 7
3Product description
32653-EN-090415

3.4Storage and transport
Your instrument was protected by packaging during transport.Its
capacity to handle normal loads during transport is assured by a test
according to DIN EN 24180.
The packaging of standard instruments consists of environment-
friendly,recyclable cardboard.For special versions,PE foam or PE foil
is also used.Dispose of the packaging material via specialised
recycling companies.
Transport must be carried out under consideration of the notes on the
transport packaging.Nonobservance of these instructions can cause
damage to the device.
The delivery must be checked for completeness and possible transit
damage immediately at receipt.Ascertained transit damage or
concealed defects must be appropriately dealt with.
Up to the time of installation,the packages must be left closed and
stored according to the orientation and storage markings on the
outside.
Unless otherwise indicated,the packages must be stored only under
the following conditions:
lNot in the open
lDry and dust free
lNot exposed to corrosive media
lProtected against solar radiation
lAvoiding mechanical shock and vibration
lStorage and transport temperature see chapter "Supplement -
Technical data -Ambient conditions"
lRelative humidity 20 …85 %
Packaging
Transport
Transport inspection
Storage
Storage and transport
temperature
8Conductive probe EL 4
3Product description
32653-EN-090415

4Mounting
4.1General instructions
In general the level switch can be mounted in any position.The
instrument must be mounted in such a way that the probe is at the
height of the requested switching point.
The probe is provided with a special hexagon for tightening.Due to the
hexagon shape,the housing itself can be used to screw the instrument
in.
The wrench size is stated in chapter "Supplement"under "Dimen-
sions".
Use the recommended cables (see chapter "Connecting to power
supply")and tighten the cable gland.
You can give your EL 4additional protection against moisture
penetration by leading the connection cable downward in front of the
cable entry.Rain and condensation water can thus drain off.This
applies mainly to outdoor mounting as well as installation in areas
where high humidity is expected (e.g.through cleaning processes)or
on cooled or heated vessels.
Fig.2:Measures against moisture penetration
Do not hold EL 4on its electrode rods.Particularly with long rod
versions,the sensor can be damaged by the weight of the instrument.
The process fitting must be sealed if there is gauge or low pressure in
the vessel.Before use,check if the seal material is resistant against
the measured product and the process temperature.
The max.permissible pressure is specified in chapter "Technical data"
or on the type label of the sensor.
4.2Mounting instructions
Due to agitators,equipment vibration or similar,the level switch can be
subjected to strong lateral forces.
Switching point
Handling
Moisture
Transport
Pressure/Vacuum
Agitators and fluidiza-
tion
Conductive probe EL 4 9
4Mounting
32653-EN-090415

Extreme vibration caused by the system,e.g.due to agitators or
turbulence in the vessel from fluidization,can cause the probe of EL 4
to vibrate in resonance.If a longer rod version is necessary,you can
secure the probe by fastening a suitable insulating brace or guy
directly above the end of the rod.
1
2
1
2
Fig.3:Fasten the probe
1Probe
2Plastic socket
IfEL 4is mounted in the filling stream,unwanted false measurement
signals can be generated.For this reason,mount EL 4at a position in
the vessel where no disturbances,e.g.from filling openings,agitators,
etc., can occur.
This applies particularly to instrument versions with a longer probe.
Inflowing medium
10 Conductive probe EL 4
4Mounting
32653-EN-090415

Fig.4:Inflowing medium
The probe should protrude into the vessel to avoid buildup.For that
reason,avoid using high mounting bosses for screw-in fittings.This
applies particularly to use in adhesive products.
Make sure that the mechanical connection of the probe to the vessel is
electrically conductive to ensure sufficient grounding.
Use conductive seals,such as those made of copper or lead,etc.
Insulating measures,such as covering the thread with Teflon tape,can
interrupt the necessary electrical connection with metal vessels.For
this reason,ground the probe on the vessel or use a conductive seal
material.
Socket
Ground connection
Conductive probe EL 4 11
4Mounting
32653-EN-090415

5Connect to power supply
5.1Prepare the connection
Always keep in mind the following safety instructions:
lConnect only in the complete absence of line voltage
You can find the electrical connection of EL 4in the operating
instructions manual of the corresponding signal conditioning instru-
ment.
You can find suitable signal conditioning instruments in chapter
"Technical data".
The instrument is connected with standard two-wire cable without
screen.If electromagnetic interference is expected which is above the
test values of EN 61326 for industrial areas,screened cable should be
used.
Use cable with round cross-section.Acable outer diameter of 5…9mm
(0.2…0.35 in)ensures the seal effect of the cable gland.If you are
using cable with a different diameter or cross-section,exchange the
seal or use a suitable cable gland.
5.2Wiring plan
You can find the electrical connection of EL 4in the operating
instructions manual of the corresponding signal conditioning instru-
ment.
Line monitoring
To realize a line monitoring,a resistor of 220 kΩmust be integrated in
the connection housing of the probe between terminal 1and 2.
When a fault message is generated,the switching output is
simultaneously activated.
If a fault message is not wanted,a bridge must be provided on the
signal conditioning instrument instead of the resistor in the connection
housing of the probe.
The line monitoring is thus deactivated and the fault message
rendered invalid.
Take note of the operating instructions manual of the signal
conditioning instrument.
With Ex versions,this 220 kΩresistor is already integrated ex factory in
the connection housing of the probe.The Ex measuring system (max.
and ground connection cable of the probe to the signal conditioning
instrument)is generally monitored for line break.
lTerminal 1=longest rod (ground)
Note safety instructions
Select power supply
Selecting connection
cable
Connection compart-
ment
12 Conductive probe EL 4
5Connect to power supply
32653-EN-090415

lTerminal 2=shortest rod (max.)
1
234
5
4
3
2
1
2
3
1
12
2
2
3
4
12
3
4
1
5
23
1
1
A B
C D
Fig.5:Connection compartment of the probe -220 kΩresistance between
terminals 1and 2
1Connection terminal 1=longest rod
2Connection terminal 2=shortest rod
A Probe with 2rods
B Probe with 3rods
C Probe with 4rods
D Probe with 5rods
Conductive probe EL 4 13
5Connect to power supply
32653-EN-090415

6Set up
6.1General information
You can find the setup procedure for EL 4in the operating instructions
manual of the corresponding signal conditioning instrument.
14 Conductive probe EL 4
6Set up
32653-EN-090415

7Maintenance and fault rectification
7.1Maintenance
When used in the correct way,no special maintenance is required in
normal operation.
7.2Remove interferences
Amaximum of reliability is ensured.Nevertheless,faults can occur
during operation.These may be caused by the following,e.g.:
lSensor
lProcess
lPower supply
lSignal processing
You can find information on fault rectification in the operating
instructions manual of the corresponding signal conditioning instru-
ment.
However,should these measures not be successful,call the VEGA
service hotline in urgent cases under the phone no.+49 1805 858550.
The hotline is available to you 7days a week round-the-clock.Since
we offer this service world-wide,the support is only available in the
English language.The service is free of charge,only the standard
telephone costs will be charged.
7.3Shortening the probe
The probe can be shortened by any amount.
Note:
Take note when shortening multiple probes that terminal 1corre-
sponds to the longest probe and terminal 2to the shortest probe.
7.4Instrument repair
If a repair is necessary,please proceed as follows:
You can download a return form (23 KB)from our Internet homepage
www.vega.com under:"Downloads -Forms and certificates -Repair
form".
By doing this you help us carry out the repair quickly and without
having to call back for needed information.
lPrint and fill out one form per instrument
lClean the instrument and pack it damage-proof
lAttach the completed form and,if need be,also a safety data
sheet outside on the packaging
Causes of malfunction
Fault rectification
24 hour service hotline
Conductive probe EL 4 15
7Maintenance and fault rectification
32653-EN-090415

lPlease ask the agency serving you for the address of your return
shipment.You can find the respective agency on our website
www.vega.com under:"Company -VEGA worldwide"
16 Conductive probe EL 4
7Maintenance and fault rectification
32653-EN-090415

8Dismounting
8.1Dismounting steps
Warning:
Before dismounting,be aware of dangerous process conditions such
as e.g.pressure in the vessel,high temperatures,corrosive or toxic
products etc.
Take note of chapters "Mounting"and "Connecting to power supply"
and carry out the listed steps in reverse order.
8.2Disposal
The instrument consists of materials which can be recycled by
specialised recycling companies.We use recyclable materials and
have designed the electronics to be easily separable.
WEEE directive 2002/96/EG
This instrument is not subject to the WEEE directive 2002/96/EG and
the respective national laws.Pass the instrument directly on to a
specialised recycling company and do not use the municipal collecting
points.These may be used only for privately used products according
to the WEEE directive.
Correct disposal avoids negative effects to persons and environment
and ensures recycling of useful raw materials.
Materials:see chapter "Technical data"
If you have no possibility to dispose of the old instrument
professionally,please contact us concerning return and disposal.
Conductive probe EL 4 17
8Dismounting
32653-EN-090415

9Supplement
9.1Technical data
General data
Materials 316Ti corresponds to 1.4571,316Lcorresponds to 1.4404 or 1.4435
Materials,wetted parts
-Process fitting PP
-Process seal Klingersil C-4400
-insulation (partly insulated)PP
-Electrode (rod partly PP insulated:
ø4mm/0.157 in)
316Ti,Hastelloy C4(2.4610)
Materials,non-wetted parts
-Housing PP
-Housing cover PBT
-Seal between housing and housing
cover
NBR
-Cable gland PA
Process fitting G1½A(ISO 228 T1)
Weight
-with plastic housing 400 g(14 oz)
-Rod weight:ø4mm (0.157 in)100 g/m(1.1oz/ft)
Sensor length (L1-L5)0.1…4m(0.328 …13.12 ft)
Insulation length 78 mm (3in)
Output variable
Suitable signal conditioning instruments VEGATOR 256C,532,631
Ambient conditions
Ambient temperature on the housing -40 …+80 °C(-40 …+176 °F)
Storage and transport temperature -40 …+80 °C(-40 …+176 °F)
Process conditions
Process pressure -1…6bar/-100 …600 kPa(-14.5…87 psig)
Process temperature EL 4of 316L-20 …+100 °C(-4…+212 °F)
Conductive of the medium min.7.5µS/cm
Electromechanical data
Cable entry 1x cable gland M20 x1.5(cable:ø5…9mm/
0.2…0.35 in)
18 Conductive probe EL 4
9Supplement
32653-EN-090415

Electrical protective measures
Protection rating IP 66/IP 67
Approvals
Depending on the version,instruments with approvals can have different technical data.
For these instruments,the corresponding approval documents have to be taken into account.
These are part of the delivery or can be downloaded under www.vega.com via "VEGA Tools"and
"serial number search"as well as via "Downloads"and "Approvals".
Conductive probe EL 4 19
9Supplement
32653-EN-090415

9.2Dimensions
66mm (2 19/32")
62mm (2 7/16")
ø 4mm
(5/32")
55mm
(2 11/64")
78mm (3 5/64")
SW 60mm
(2 23/64")
G1½A
22mm
(55/64")
L2
L3
L1
M20x1,5
Fig.6:Conductive multiple rod electrode EL 4
L1Sensor length,see chapter "Technical data"
L2Sensor length,see chapter "Technical data"
L3Sensor length,see chapter "Technical data"
20 Conductive probe EL 4
9Supplement
32653-EN-090415