Vega VEGACAP 64 User manual

Operating Instructions
Capacitive rod electrode for level
detection
VEGACAP 64
Two-wire
Document ID: 30015

2
Contents
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
Contents
1 About this document ............................................................................................................... 4
1.1 Function ........................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Target group ..................................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Symbols used................................................................................................................... 4
2 For your safety ......................................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Authorised personnel ....................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Appropriate use................................................................................................................ 5
2.3 Warning about incorrect use............................................................................................. 5
2.4 General safety instructions............................................................................................... 5
2.5 Conformity........................................................................................................................ 6
2.6 Installation and operation in the USA and Canada ........................................................... 6
2.7 Safety instructions for Ex areas ........................................................................................ 6
2.8 Environmental instructions ............................................................................................... 6
3 Product description ................................................................................................................. 7
3.1 Conguration.................................................................................................................... 7
3.2 Principle of operation........................................................................................................ 9
3.3 Adjustment ....................................................................................................................... 9
3.4 Packaging, transport and storage................................................................................... 10
3.5 Accessories.................................................................................................................... 10
4 Mounting................................................................................................................................. 11
4.1 General instructions ....................................................................................................... 11
4.2 Mounting instructions ..................................................................................................... 13
5 Connecting to power supply................................................................................................. 15
5.1 Preparing the connection ............................................................................................... 15
5.2 Connection procedure.................................................................................................... 15
5.3 Wiring plan - single chamber housing ............................................................................ 16
5.4 Wiring plan - version IP66/IP68, 1 bar ............................................................................ 18
5.5 Warm-up reaction........................................................................................................... 18
6 Setup ....................................................................................................................................... 19
6.1 General information........................................................................................................ 19
6.2 Adjustment elements...................................................................................................... 19
7 Diagnostics and servicing .................................................................................................... 21
7.1 Maintenance .................................................................................................................. 21
7.2 Rectify faults................................................................................................................... 21
7.3 Exchange of the electronics module............................................................................... 22
7.4 How to proceed if a repair is necessary.......................................................................... 24
8 Dismount................................................................................................................................. 25
8.1 Dismounting steps.......................................................................................................... 25
8.2 Disposal ......................................................................................................................... 25
9 Supplement ............................................................................................................................ 26
9.1 Technical data ................................................................................................................ 26
9.2 Dimensions .................................................................................................................... 30
9.3 Industrial property rights................................................................................................. 33
9.4 Trademark ...................................................................................................................... 33

3
Contents
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
Editing status: 2023-04-26

4
1 About this document
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
1 About this document
1.1 Function
This instruction provides all the information you need for mounting,
connection and setup as well as important instructions for mainte-
nance,faultrectication,theexchangeofpartsandthesafetyofthe
user. Please read this information before putting the instrument into
operation and keep this manual accessible in the immediate vicinity
of the device.
1.2 Target group
This operating instructions manual is directed to trained personnel.
Thecontentsofthismanualmustbemadeavailabletothequalied
personnel and implemented.
1.3 Symbols used
Document ID
This symbol on the front page of this instruction refers to the Docu-
ment ID. By entering the Document ID on www.vega.com you will
reach the document download.
Information, note, tip: This symbol indicates helpful additional infor-
mation and tips for successful work.
Note: This symbol indicates notes to prevent failures, malfunctions,
damage to devices or plants.
Caution: Non-observance of the information marked with this symbol
may result in personal injury.
Warning: Non-observance of the information marked with this symbol
may result in serious or fatal personal injury.
Danger: Non-observance of the information marked with this symbol
results in serious or fatal personal injury.
Ex applications
This symbol indicates special instructions for Ex applications.
• List
The dot set in front indicates a list with no implied sequence.
1 Sequence of actions
Numbers set in front indicate successive steps in a procedure.
Disposal
This symbol indicates special instructions for disposal.

5
2 For your safety
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
2 For your safety
2.1 Authorised personnel
All operations described in this documentation must be carried out
onlybytrained,qualiedpersonnelauthorisedbytheplantoperator.
During work on and with the device, the required personal protective
equipment must always be worn.
2.2 Appropriate use
The VEGACAP 64 is a sensor for point level detection.
Youcannddetailedinformationabouttheareaofapplicationin
chapter " Product description".
Operational reliability is ensured only if the instrument is properly
usedaccordingtothespecications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. Arbi-
traryconversionsormodicationsareexplicitlyforbidden.
2.3 Warning about incorrect use
Inappropriate or incorrect use of this product can give rise to applica-
tion-specichazards,e.g.vesseloverllthroughincorrectmounting
or adjustment. Damage to property and persons or environmental
contamination can result. Also, the protective characteristics of the
instrument can be impaired.
2.4 General safety instructions
This is a state-of-the-art instrument complying with all prevailing
regulations and directives. The instrument must only be operated in a
technicallyawlessandreliablecondition.Theoperatorisresponsi-
ble for the trouble-free operation of the instrument. When measuring
aggressive or corrosive media that can cause a dangerous situation
if the instrument malfunctions, the operator has to implement suitable
measures to make sure the instrument is functioning properly.
The safety instructions in this operating instructions manual, the na-
tional installation standards as well as the valid safety regulations and
accident prevention rules must be observed by the user.
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. Arbi-
traryconversionsormodicationsareexplicitlyforbidden.Forsafety
reasons,onlytheaccessoryspeciedbythemanufacturermustbe
used.
To avoid any danger, the safety approval markings and safety tips on
the device must also be observed.

6
2 For your safety
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
2.5 Conformity
The device complies with the legal requirements of the applicable
country-specicdirectivesortechnicalregulations.Weconrmcon-
formity with the corresponding labelling.
The corresponding conformity declarations can be found on our
homepage.
2.6 Installation and operation in the USA and
Canada
This information is only valid for USA and Canada. Hence the follow-
ing text is only available in the English language.
Installations in the US shall comply with the relevant requirements of
the National Electrical Code (NEC - NFPA 70) (USA).
Installations in Canada shall comply with the relevant requirements of
the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC Par I) (Canada).
2.7 Safety instructions for Ex areas
For applications in explosion-proof areas (Ex), only devices with cor-
respondingExapprovalmaybeused.ObservetheEx-specicsafety
instructions.These are an integral part of the operating instructions
and are enclosed with every device with Ex approval.
2.8 Environmental 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 pro-
tection.Theenvironmentmanagementsystemiscertiedaccording
to DIN EN ISO 14001.
Pleasehelpusfullthisobligationbyobservingtheenvironmental
instructions in this manual:
• Chapter " Packaging, transport and storage"
• Chapter " Disposal"

7
3 Product description
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
3 Product description
3.1 Conguration
The scope of delivery encompasses:
• VEGACAP 64 point level switch
The further scope of delivery encompasses:
• Documentation
– Operating instructions VEGACAP 64
– Safety Manual (SIL)
– Instructions for optional instrument features
– Ex-specic"Safety instructions" (with Ex versions)
– Ifnecessary,furthercerticates
Information:
Optional instrument features are also described in this operating
instructions manual.The respective scope of delivery results from the
orderspecication.
This operating instructions manual applies to the following instrument
versions:
• Hardware from 1.0.0
• Software from 1.3.0
• OnlyforinstrumentversionswithoutSILqualication
The VEGACAP 64 consists of the components:
• Processttingwithprobe
• Housing with electronics
• Housing lid
1
2
3
Fig. 1: VEGACAP 64, rod version with plastic housing
1 Housing lid
2 Housing with electronics
3 Processtting
Scope of delivery
Scope of this operating
instructions
Constituent parts

8
3 Product description
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
Thetypelabelcontainsthemostimportantdataforidenticationand
use of the instrument:
2
1
11
10
13
12
14
15
9
3
6
4
5
7
8
Fig. 2: Layout of the type label (example)
1 Instrument type
2 Product code
3 Approvals
4 Process and ambient temperature, process pressure
5 Power supply and signal output, electronics
6 Protection rating
7 Probe length
8 Order number
9 Serial number of the instrument
10 Material wetted parts
11 Symbol of the device protection class
12 Reminder to observe the instrument documentation
13 ID numbers, instrument documentation
14 NotiedauthorityforCEmarking
15 Approval directives
With the serial number, you can access the delivery data of the instru-
ment via " www.vega.com", " Search".Youcanndtheserialnumber
on the inside of the instrument as well as on the type label on the
outside.
The type label contains the serial number of the instrument. With it
youcanndthefollowinginstrumentdataonourhomepage:
• Product code (HTML)
• Delivery date (HTML)
• Order-specicinstrumentfeatures(HTML)
• Operating instructions and quick setup guide at the time of ship-
ment (PDF)
• Testcerticate(PDF)-optional
Move to " www.vega.com"andenterinthesearcheldtheserial
number of your instrument.
Alternatively, you can access the data via your smartphone:
• Download the VEGA Tools app from the " Apple App Store" or the
" Google Play Store"
• Scan the QR-code on the type label of the device or
• Enter the serial number manually in the app
Type label
Serial number - Instru-
ment search

9
3 Product description
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
3.2 Principle of operation
VEGACAP 64 is a point level sensor for use in non-abrasive liquids
and bulk solids.
The rod probe is fully insulated and due to its construction is suitable
for all viscous and adhesive products.
The device is optionally available with increased sensitivity for foam
detection.
Probe, measured product and vessel wall form an electrical capacitor.
Thecapacitanceisinuencedbythreemainfactors.
1
2
3
Fig. 3: Functional principle - Plate capacitor
1 Distance between the electrode surfaces
2 Size of the electrode surfaces
3 Type of dielectric between the electrodes
The probe and the vessel wall are the capacitor plates.The measured
product is the dielectric. Due to the higher dielectric constant of the
product compared to air, the capacitance increases as the probe is
gradually covered.
The capacitance change is converted by the electronics module into
a switching command.
Depending on your requirements, VEGACAP 64 with two-wire elec-
tronicscanbeconnectedtodierentcontrollers.Compatiblecontrol-
lers are listed in chapter " Technical data".
Thedataforpowersupplyarespeciedinchapter"Technical data".
3.3 Adjustment
The probe can be adapted to the dielectric constant of the product
directly on the electronics module.
A switching command can be triggered when the probe is covered or
laid bare.
Ontheelectronicsmoduleyouwillndthefollowingdisplayand
adjustment elements:
• Control lamp for indication of the device status.
Application area
Functional principle
Voltage supply

10
3 Product description
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
3.4 Packaging, transport and storage
Your instrument was protected by packaging during transport. Its
capacity to handle normal loads during transport is assured by a test
based on ISO 4180.
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 in due 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 con-
cealed 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:
• Not in the open
• Dry and dust free
• Not exposed to corrosive media
• Protected against solar radiation
• Avoiding mechanical shock and vibration
• Storage and transport temperature see chapter " Supplement -
Technical data - Ambient conditions"
• Relative moisture 20 … 85 %
With instrument weights of more than 18 kg (39.68 lbs) suitable and
approved equipment must be used for lifting and carrying.
3.5 Accessories
The instructions for the listed accessories can be found in the down-
load area on our homepage.
The protective cover protects the sensor housing against soiling and
intense heat from solar radiation.
Screwedangesareavailableindierentversionsaccordingtothe
following standards: DIN 2501, EN 1092-1, BS 10, ASME B 16.5,
JIS B 2210-1984, GOST 12821-80.
Packaging
Transport
Transport inspection
Storage
Storage and transport
temperature
Lifting and carrying
Protective cover
Flanges

11
4 Mounting
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
4 Mounting
4.1 General instructions
Note:
For safety reasons, the instrument must only be operated within the
permissibleprocessconditions.Youcannddetailedinformationon
the process conditions in chapter " Technical data" of the operating
instructions or on the type label.
Hence make sure before mounting that all parts of the instrument ex-
posed to the process are suitable for the existing process conditions.
These are mainly:
• Active measuring component
• Processtting
• Process seal
Process conditions in particular are:
• Process pressure
• Process temperature
• Chemical properties of the medium
• Abrasionandmechanicalinuences
In general the level switch can be mounted in any position.The instru-
ment must be mounted in such a way that the probe is at the height of
the requested switching point.
Before beginning the welding work, remove the electronics module
from the sensor. By doing this, you avoid damage to the electronics
through inductive coupling.
Ground the probe before welding directly on the rod or cable.
Deviceswiththreadedttingarescrewedintotheprocessttingwith
a suitable wrench via the hexagon.
See chapter " Dimensions"forwrenchsize.
Warning:
The housing or the electrical connection may not be used for screw-
ing in! Depending on the device version, tightening can cause dam-
age, e. g. to the rotation mechanism of the housing.
With threaded versions, the housing must not be used to screw in the
instrument! Applying tightening forces on the housing can damage its
internal parts.
Use the hexagon for screwing in.
Use the recommended cables (see chapter " Connecting to power
supply") and tighten the cable gland.
You can give your instrument additional protection against moisture
penetration by leading the connection cable downward in front of the
cablegland.Rainandcondensationwatercanthusdraino.This
Process conditions
Switching point
Welding work
Screwing in
Handling
Moisture

12
4 Mounting
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
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.
To maintain the housing protection, make sure that the housing lid is
closed during operation and locked, if necessary.
Fig. 4: Measures against moisture ingress
DonotholdVEGACAP64ontheprobe.Especiallywithheavyange
versions or long rod versions, the sensor can be damaged simply by
the weight of the instrument.
Theprocessttingmustbesealedifthereisgaugeorlowpressure
in the vessel. Before use, check if the sealing material is resistant
against the measured product and the process temperature.
Themax.permissiblepressureisspeciedinchapter"Technical
data" or on the type label of the sensor.
Metal vessel
Make sure that the mechanical connection of the probe to the vessel
iselectricallyconductivetoensuresucientgrounding.
Use conductive seals, such as those made of copper or lead, etc.
Insulatingmeasures,suchascoveringthethreadwithTeon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.
Non-conductive vessels
In non-conductive vessels, e.g. plastic tanks, the second pole of the
capacitor must be provided separately.
Metric threads
In the case of instrument housings with metric thread, the cable
glands are screwed in at the factory.They are sealed with plastic
plugs as transport protection.
You have to remove these plugs before electrical connection.
NPT thread
In the case of instrument housings with self-sealing NPT threads, it is
not possible to have the cable entries screwed in at the factory.The
free openings for the cable glands are therefore covered with red dust
protection caps as transport protection.
Transport
Pressure/Vacuum
Vessel material
Cable entries - NPT
thread
Cable glands

13
4 Mounting
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
Prior to setup you have to replace these protective caps with ap-
proved cable glands or close the openings with suitable blind plugs.
4.2 Mounting instructions
Duetotheeectsofagitators,equipmentvibrationorsimilar,thelevel
switch can be subjected to strong lateral forces. For this reason, do
not use an overly long electrode for VEGACAP 64, but check if you
canmountashortlevelswitchonthesideofthevesselinhorizontal
position.
Extreme vibration caused by the system, e.g. due to agitators or
turbulenceinthevesselfromuidisation,cancausetheprobeof
VEGACAP 64 to vibrate in resonance. If a longer rod version is neces-
sary, you can secure the probe by fastening a suitable brace or guy
directly above the end of the rod.
Iftheinstrumentismountedinthellingstream,unwantedfalse
measurement signals can be generated. For this reason, mount the
instrument at a position in the vessel where no disturbances, e.g. from
llingopenings,agitators,etc.,canoccur.
This applies particularly to instrument versions with a longer probe.
Fig.5:Inowingmedium
To achieve a very precise switching point, you can install VEGACAP
64horizontally.However,iftheswitchingpointcanhaveatolerance
of a few centimeters, we recommend mounting VEGACAP 64 approx.
20° inclined to the vessel bottom to avoid buildup.
Install rod probes in such a way that the probe projects freely into the
vessel.Whentheinstrumentismountedinatubeornozzle,buildup
can form which impairs the measurement.This applies mainly to
adhesive products.
Agitatorsanduidization
Inowingmedium
Horizontalmounting

14
4 Mounting
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
20°
Fig. 6: Horizontal mounting
Tocompensatethematerial-specicpreloadlossduetosealingma-
terials,youhavetoadditionallyusediscspringsforfasteningange
screwsonPTFEcoatedanges.Tightenthescrewsmoderatelywith
the torque stated in the technical data. Depending on the process and
ambient conditions, this value can vary. In individual cases you should
occasionally check the tightness on site.
Torque with PTFE plated
anges

15
5 Connecting to power supply
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
5 Connecting to power supply
5.1 Preparing the connection
Always keep in mind the following safety instructions:
• Carryoutelectricalconnectionbytrained,qualiedpersonnel
authorised by the plant operator
Warning:
Onlyconnectordisconnectinde-energizedstate.
Connect the operating voltage according to the following diagrams.
Take note of the general installation regulations. As a rule, connect
VEGACAP 64 to vessel ground (PA), or in case of plastic vessels,
to the next ground potential. On the side of the instrument housing
there is a ground terminal between the cable entries.This connection
servestodrainoelectrostaticcharges.InExapplications,theinstal-
lationregulationsforhazardousareasmustbegivenpriority.
Thedataforpowersupplyarespeciedinchapter"Technical data".
The instrument is connected with standard two-wire cable without
shielding. If electromagnetic interference is expected which is above
the test values of EN 61326-1 for industrial areas, shielded cable
should be used.
Make sure that the cable used has the required temperature resist-
anceandresafetyformax.occurringambienttemperature
Use cable with round cross section for instruments with housing and
cablegland.Toensurethesealeectofthecablegland(IPprotection
rating),ndoutwhichcableouterdiameterthecableglandissuitable
for.
Useacableglandttingthecablediameter.
Cover all housing openings conforming to standard according to
EN 60079-1.
5.2 Connection procedure
With Ex instruments, the housing cover may only be opened if there is
no explosive atmosphere present.
Proceed as follows:
1. Unscrew the housing lid
2. Loosen compression nut of the cable gland and remove blind
plug
3. Remove approx. 10 cm (4 in) of the cable mantle, strip approx.
1 cm (0.4 in) of insulation from the ends of the individual wires
4. Insert the cable into the sensor through the cable entry
5. Lift the opening levers of the terminals with a screwdriver (see
following illustration)
Safety instructions
Voltage supply
Connection cable

16
5 Connecting to power supply
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
Fig. 7: Connection steps 5 and 6
6. Insert the wire ends into the open terminals according to the wir-
ing plan
7. Press down the opening levers of the terminals, you will hear the
terminal spring closing
8. Check the hold of the wires in the terminals by lightly pulling on
them
9. Tighten the compression nut of the cable entry gland. The seal
ring must completely encircle the cable
10. If necessary, carry out a fresh adjustment
11. Screw the housing lid back on
Theelectricalconnectionisnished.
5.3 Wiring plan - single chamber housing
1
4
44
2 3
Fig. 8: Material versions - single chamber housing
1 Plastic (not with dust-Ex)
2 Aluminium
3 Stainless steel
4 Filter element for pressure compensation or blind plug with version IP66/
IP68, 1 bar
Housing overview

17
5 Connecting to power supply
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
4
1
2
3
Fig. 9: Electronics and connection compartment
1 DIL switch for measuring range selection
2 Ground terminal
3 Connection terminals
4 Control lamp
For connection to a controller.The sensor is powered by the connect-
ed controller. Further information is available in chapter " Technical
data", " Ex-technical data" are available in the " Safety information".
The wiring example is applicable for all suitable controllers.
Take note of the operating instructions manual of the controller. Suit-
able controllers are listed in chapter " Technical data".
1
Fig. 10: Wiring plan
1 Voltage supply
Electronics and connec-
tion compartment
Wiring plan

18
5 Connecting to power supply
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
5.4 Wiring plan - version IP66/IP68, 1 bar
1
2
Fig. 11: Wire assignment, connection cable
1 Brown (+) and blue (-) to power supply or to the processing system
2 Shielding
5.5 Warm-up reaction
After connecting to voltage supply or after a voltage recurrence, the
instrument passes a certain switch on routine.
By lowering the current value when switching on, the instrument can
outputbrieyafaultsignal.
10
I/mA
20,5
< 2,3
1,5 3 4,5 t/s
1
Fig. 12: Warm-up reaction
1 Measured value
Wire assignment, con-
nection cable

19
6 Setup
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
6 Setup
6.1 General information
Theguresinbracketsrefertothefollowingillustrations.
Ontheelectronicsmoduleyouwillndthefollowingdisplayand
adjustment elements:
• DIL switch for measuring range selection
• Control lamp
Note:
As a rule, always set the mode with the mode switch of the signal
conditioning instrument before starting setup VEGACAP 64.The
switching output will change if you set the mode switch afterwards.
This could possibly trigger other connected instruments or devices.
6.2 Adjustment elements
4
1
2
3
Fig. 13: Electronics module - Two-wire output
1 DIL switch for measuring range selection (with compensation button)
2 Ground terminal
3 Connection terminals
4 Control lamp
A failure can be displayed when the housing is closed (only plastic
housing).
Take note of the switching point adjustment of the operating
instructions of the " Controller".
Note:
Screw the housing cover tightly up to the thread stop so that the
inspection glass is above the control lamp (LED).
ToadjustVEGACAP64,rstofallremovethehousingcover.
Function/Conguration

20
6 Setup
VEGACAP 64 • Two-wire
30015-EN-230510
With the potentiometer on the controller and the measuring range
selection switch (1) on VEGACAP 64 you can change the sensitivity
of the probe to the electrical properties of the product and the condi-
tions in the vessel.This is necessary so that the level switch can also
reliablydetectproductse.g.withveryloworveryhighdielectricgure.
range 1: 0 … 20 pF
Range 2: 0 … 85 pF
Range 3: 0 … 450 pF
Control lamp for indication of the device status.
• green = instrument functions
• red(ashing)=failure
See operating instructions manual of the " Controller".
The adjustment of the switching point is only possible in installed
condition.
Standingcapacitancesinavesselcaninuencethemeasurement.
We therefore recommend to carry out a compensation of these stand-
ing capacitances before the adjustment.
1. Make sure that the probe is correctly mounted and connected.
2. Make sure that the probe is uncovered.
2
1
Fig. 14: Compensation key
1 Measuring range selection switch (compensation key)
2 Control lamp
3. Keep the measuring range selection switch (1) pushed until the
controllamp(2)ashesgreen.
4. Then carry out the adjustment.
The detailed adjustment of VEGACAP 64 is described in the operat-
ing instructions manual of the " Controller".
Measuring range selec-
tion switch (1)
Signal lamp (4)
Switching point adjust-
ment