Point Level Detection for Demanding Bulk Solids
The Solicap FTI77 is designed for point level detection in fine- to coarse-grained bulk solids. It provides a defined switching point for minimum or maximum level detection rather than continuous level measurement.
Its capacitance measuring principle is suitable for a wide range of dry bulk materials, while active build-up compensation helps maintain reliable detection when material accumulates around the probe.
Designed for High-Temperature Applications
One of the defining characteristics of the FTI77 is its ability to operate at process temperatures up to +400°C. This makes it suitable for applications where standard bulk-solid level switches may not provide enough temperature capability.
Sword or Rope Probe — Depending on the Installation
The FTI77 is available with two different probe concepts.
The sword version is suited to applications where mechanical strength and resistance to lateral forces are particularly important. The manufacturer specifies lateral loads of up to 800 Nm for this version.
The rope version is intended for deeper vessels, with sensor lengths from 0.5 to 20 m. The sword version is available from 0.2 to 1 m.
Built for Abrasive Materials
Bulk solids can be mechanically demanding, particularly during filling and discharge. The FTI77 is designed for applications involving abrasive media, while its robust construction provides additional resistance in installations where the probe is exposed to significant mechanical forces.
Active Build-Up Compensation
Material accumulation around a capacitance probe can affect point-level detection. The FTI77 incorporates active build-up compensation to help maintain reliable switching performance even when deposits form around the probe.
A Flexible Solution for Different Vessel Designs
With both sword and rope probe configurations, a wide selection of process connections, and international certificates and approvals, the FTI77 can be adapted to different silo and process-vessel arrangements.
Key Features
- Capacitance point level switch for bulk solids
- Suitable for fine-grained to coarse-grained materials
- Sword or rope probe options
- Active build-up compensation
- Process temperature: -50 to +400°C
- Process pressure: Vacuum to 10 bar
- Rope probe length: 0.5 to 20 m
- Sword probe length: 0.2 to 1 m
- Sword version lateral load: up to 800 Nm
- Suitable for abrasive media
- Partly insulated probe design
- Threaded and flanged process connections
- International explosion protection certificates
- SIL options available depending on configuration
- Designed for demanding high-temperature and mechanically loaded applications
Typical Applications
High-Temperature Bulk Material Storage
The FTI77 is suitable for silos and vessels containing bulk solids where process temperatures can reach up to 400°C.
Abrasive Bulk Solids
The robust construction makes it suitable for materials that can cause significant wear or mechanical stress during filling and discharge.
Cement and Mineral Processing
The FTI77 can be used for point level detection in applications involving cement, minerals and other mechanically demanding bulk materials.
High-Temperature Process Vessels
Where bulk materials are handled at elevated temperatures, the FTI77 provides a point-level switching solution without requiring continuous level measurement.
Deep Silos
The rope version, with lengths up to 20 m, is suitable for large silos and vessels where a long sensing distance is required.
Applications with High Lateral Loads
The sword version is particularly suitable where the probe can be exposed to significant lateral mechanical forces, with a specified load capability of up to 800 Nm.
FAQ
What is the Endress+Hauser Solicap FTI77?
The Solicap FTI77 is a capacitance point level switch for bulk solids. It detects whether material has reached a defined minimum or maximum level rather than providing continuous level measurement.
What type of probe does the FTI77 use?
The FTI77 is available with both sword and rope probes. The appropriate version depends on the vessel geometry, required measuring length and mechanical conditions.
What is the maximum temperature of the FTI77?
The official specifications list a process temperature range of -50 to +400°C.
What is the maximum process pressure?
The official product specifications list process pressure from vacuum to 10 bar.
How long can the rope probe be?
The rope version supports sensor lengths from 0.5 to 20 m.
What is the maximum length of the sword probe?
The sword version is available with sensor lengths from 0.2 to 1 m.
How much mechanical load can the FTI77 withstand?
For the sword version, Endress+Hauser specifies lateral loads of up to 800 Nm. This is one of the main reasons for choosing the sword configuration in mechanically demanding installations.
Is the FTI77 suitable for abrasive materials?
Yes. The official product description specifically identifies applications involving abrasive media, as well as high temperatures and high lateral loads.
Is the FTI77 a continuous level transmitter?
No. It is a point level switch. The instrument detects whether the bulk material has reached a defined switching point.
Does the FTI77 compensate for build-up?
Yes. Active build-up compensation is part of the FTI77 design and helps maintain reliable point-level detection when material accumulates around the probe.
