Coated Point Level Detection for Demanding Media
The Liquiphant FTL85 is designed for liquid point level detection where both functional safety and resistance to corrosive process media matter. Its vibronic measuring principle provides reliable switching without mechanically moving parts, while the coated sensor construction helps address applications where conventional wetted materials may not provide the required resistance.
The FTL85 is particularly suited to MIN/MAX level detection and FailSafe overfill protection, including safety-related applications requiring SIL3.
Corrosion Resistance Is Part of the Design
One of the defining features of the FTL85 is its coated wetted construction. Depending on the selected configuration, the sensor can use enamel, ECTFE or various PFA materials, providing a solution for processes where corrosion resistance is an important consideration.
This makes the FTL85 more than a standard point level switch—it is designed around the actual conditions that can make liquid level detection difficult.
Designed for Functional Safety
For safety-related applications, the FTL85 supports functional safety up to SIL3 with one device. The device provides permanent self-monitoring and internal redundancy, while its LIVE signal continuously monitors the functional safety status.
Proof testing can be performed with an interval of up to 12 years, and slave devices can be tested at the press of a button.
Stable Detection Under Difficult Process Conditions
The vibronic measuring principle is not dependent on changing media properties in the same way as some other level detection technologies. Endress+Hauser specifies reliable measurement values even in the presence of flow, turbulence, gas bubbles, foam, vibrations and build-up.
This makes the FTL85 a practical choice when the process itself is not perfectly stable.
Built for Extended Installation Depths
For tanks where the switching point is located deeper inside the vessel, the FTL85 can be configured with an extension pipe up to 3 m.
Process connections include threads and flanges, with flange options covering DN25 to DN100, ASME 1" to 4", and JIS 10K to 20K, depending on the selected configuration.
Simple 4–20 mA Integration
The FTL85 uses a 2-wire 4–20 mA interface. It can be integrated through the Nivotester FailSafe FTL825 with two-channel safety contacts or directly into a safety PLC, depending on the safety system architecture.
No adjustment is required for startup, helping simplify commissioning.
A Point Level Switch Built for Long-Term Reliability
There are no mechanically moving parts in the measuring principle, reducing concerns related to mechanical wear and routine maintenance.
The device also monitors the fork for conditions including damage, corrosion, build-up and mechanical blocking, helping maintain reliable operation over its service life.
Key Features
- FailSafe point level switch for liquids
- Functional safety up to SIL3
- MIN/MAX level detection and overfill protection
- Corrosion-resistant enamel, ECTFE and PFA coatings
- Process temperature: -50 to +150°C
- Process pressure: vacuum to 40 bar
- Minimum medium density: 0.4 g/cm³
- Extension pipe up to 3 m
- 2-wire 4–20 mA communication
- Permanent self-monitoring and internal redundancy
- No mechanically moving parts
- Suitable for hazardous areas with international explosion protection certificates
- WHG overfill protection and leakage detection options
Typical Applications
Corrosive Liquid Level Detection
Suitable for processes where the sensor is exposed to aggressive or corrosive liquids and a coated wetted construction is required.
FailSafe Overfill Protection
Used for safety-related MAX level detection and overfill protection in tanks and process vessels.
MIN/MAX Safety Applications
Suitable for applications where reliable point level switching is required as part of a functional safety system.
Hazardous Areas
Available with international explosion protection certificates for use in appropriately classified hazardous areas.
Deep Tanks
The optional extension pipe up to 3 m makes the FTL85 suitable for tanks where the required switching point is far from the process connection.
Difficult Process Conditions
A suitable choice for liquids affected by foam, gas bubbles, turbulence, flow, vibration or build-up.
FAQ
What type of level measurement does the Liquiphant FTL85 use?
The FTL85 uses the vibronic measuring principle for point level detection of liquids.
What is the FTL85 mainly used for?
It is designed for MIN/MAX point level detection and FailSafe overfill protection, including safety-related applications up to SIL3.
What is the maximum process temperature?
The specified process temperature range is -50 to +150°C.
What is the maximum process pressure?
The FTL85 is specified for pressures from vacuum up to 40 bar.
What is the minimum liquid density?
The minimum specified medium density is 0.4 g/cm³.
How long can the FTL85 extension pipe be?
The sensor can be configured with an extension pipe up to 3 m (9.8 ft).
Can the FTL85 be used with corrosive liquids?
Yes. The FTL85 is specifically available with corrosion-resistant enamel, ECTFE and various PFA coatings, making coating selection an important part of configuring the device for the process medium.
Does the FTL85 support SIL3?
Yes. The FTL85 supports functional safety applications up to SIL3 with one device.
What output does the FTL85 use?
The device uses a 2-wire 4–20 mA interface and can be integrated through the Nivotester FailSafe FTL825 or directly into a safety PLC, depending on the application.
Does the FTL85 have moving mechanical parts?
No. The vibronic measuring principle does not use mechanically moving parts, which helps reduce mechanical wear and maintenance requirements.
