The Rosemount 2160 is a wireless vibrating fork level detector designed to identify wet and dry conditions at a predefined point in a tank or pipeline. A piezoelectric element vibrates the fork at its natural frequency. When liquid contacts or leaves the fork, the vibration frequency changes, allowing the device to detect the level condition and transmit the switch status and other information to a compatible wireless gateway.
Its WirelessHART® connectivity makes it especially useful where wiring is costly, difficult, or impractical. With electronic self-checking, condition monitoring, and remote access to process information, the Rosemount 2160 helps operators monitor isolated installations and reduce unnecessary field visits.
Key Features
- WirelessHART® communication for remote monitoring without conventional field signal cabling
- Vibrating fork technology for reliable point-level detection
- High- and low-level alarms for liquid storage and process vessels
- Overfill prevention and pump control for suitable applications
- Long-life battery rated for up to 10 years at a one-minute update rate under specified conditions
- Built-in self-diagnostics and device condition monitoring
- Remote configuration and diagnostic access through a compatible wireless network
- Fast-drip fork design for quicker response, particularly in viscous liquids
- Programmable switching delay to help reduce false switching caused by splashing or turbulence
- Optional integral LCD display on supported configurations
- Corrosion-resistant wetted material options, including Alloy C-276 on selected configurations
- High-temperature versions for demanding process conditions
Suitable Applications
- Remote tank level monitoring
- High-level and low-level alarms
- Tank overfill prevention
- Pump control and protection
- Oil and gas production
- Chemical and petrochemical processing
- Refinery storage tanks
- Liquid storage in isolated locations
- Pipeline and process vessel monitoring
- Viscous liquid detection
- Installations where signal cabling is difficult or expensive
- Wireless industrial monitoring networks
Technical Highlights & Selection Considerations
- Detection principle: The fork detects wet and dry conditions by monitoring changes in its natural vibration frequency.
- Wireless communication: Uses WirelessHART®. A compatible gateway and suitable network coverage are required for wireless integration.
- Battery life: Up to 10 years is specified at a one-minute update rate under stated operating conditions. Actual battery life depends on update rate, network conditions, and application settings.
- Process temperature: The mid-range version supports approximately −40 to 180°C (−40 to 356°F), while the high-temperature version supports approximately −70 to 260°C (−94 to 500°F). Verify the exact model and process connection limits.
- Process pressure: The product data sheet lists operation from full vacuum up to 100 bar (approximately 1,450 psi) for applicable configurations. Check the pressure-temperature limits of the selected version.
- Switching delay: A software-adjustable delay helps prevent false switching in splashing or turbulent applications.
- Wetted materials: Select suitable materials for the liquid's chemical composition, corrosion potential, and process conditions.
- Installation: Ensure the fork is installed so liquid can flow freely between the tines. Avoid locations prone to excessive splashing or physical interference.
- Display: An integral LCD display is optional and configuration-dependent.
- Overfill protection: Confirm the required regulatory approvals and the suitability of the complete installation for the intended protective function.
- Remote monitoring: Verify gateway compatibility, network coverage, and the control or asset-management system requirements before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the Rosemount 2160 used for?
It detects high- or low-liquid conditions in tanks and pipelines, supporting remote alarms, overfill prevention, and pump control.
Q2: How does the Rosemount 2160 work?
Its vibrating fork changes frequency when liquid contacts or leaves the fork. The detector identifies the wet or dry condition and transmits the information through WirelessHART® communication.
Q3: Does the Rosemount 2160 require signal wiring?
It uses wireless communication, reducing the need for conventional field signal cabling. A compatible WirelessHART gateway and appropriate network infrastructure are still required.
Q4: How long does the battery last?
The battery can last up to 10 years at a one-minute update rate under specified conditions. Actual service life depends on the update rate, operating environment, and network conditions.
Q5: Can the Rosemount 2160 operate at high temperatures?
Yes. A high-temperature version supports process temperatures up to approximately 260°C (500°F). Confirm the temperature rating of the exact configuration before ordering.
Q6: What should I check before purchasing?
Confirm the required detection function, WirelessHART network compatibility, battery operating requirements, process temperature and pressure, wetted materials, installation arrangement, and applicable approvals.
