Instrumentation Monthly Test | Measurement | Control
The new LDL100 and LDL200 conductivity sensors from ifm electronic make it easy to implement efficient and cost-effective CIP (cleaning in place) systems that are accurately controlled on the basis of media measurements, rather than simply relying on timed processes. Potential benefits include reduced CIP time, which enhances plant availability, reduced usage of water and cleaning agents, improved process performance and easier validation of product quality.
Typical applications for the new sensors, which have been developed specifically for use in CIP systems, are measuring the concentration of wash fluids in rinse water, checking for rinse water contamination and the detection of product residues in the return pipe during CIP operations. These measurements not only validate the cleaning process and provide the data needed to accurately control its duration, but also help to eliminate the risk of products becoming contaminated by cleaning agents.
LDL100 conductivity sensors have a standard 4-20 mA analogue output with a conductivity measuring range of 100 to 15,000 µS/cm and are ideal for simple applications, while the LDL200 models use I/O Link technology to deliver accurate results even with long cable runs and in electrically noisy environments. This, together with the extended measuring range of 100 to 1,000,000 µS/cm and simultaneous measurement of temperature up to +150 degrees C, make the LDL200 an excellent choice to meet even the most demanding of requirements.
Both of ifm’s new conductivity sensors are easy to install thanks to their use of industry-standard process fittings, while their stainless-steel bodies, IP69K ingress protection rating and compact construction means that they are compatible with almost any type of plant. They require no external evaluation electronics and feature easy set up, high accuracy and stable operation over a long working life.