Tuning fork level switches are widely used in industries such as petrochemical, metallurgy, light industry, construction materials, and environmental protection for liquid level alarm and control. These devices operate by exciting the tuning fork at a specific resonant frequency using piezoelectric crystals mounted on the base. When the fork comes into contact with the measured medium, its vibration frequency and amplitude change. These changes are detected and processed by an intelligent circuit, which then converts them into switching signals to trigger alarms or control actions.
We know that the vibration frequency of a tuning fork can be calculated using the following formula:
$$ f = \frac{1}{2\pi} \sqrt{\frac{E}{\rho}} \cdot \frac{t}{L^2} $$
Where:
- $ t $: thickness of the fork (in meters)
- $ L $: length of the fork (in meters)
- $ E $: Young's modulus (in kgf/m²)
- $ \rho $: density of the fork material (kg/m³)
- $ g $: acceleration due to gravity (980 cm/s²)
From this formula, it is clear that adjusting the thickness and length of the fork, or changing the material, can influence the nominal frequency. The vibration frequency is inversely proportional to the square of the fork length — the longer the fork, the lower the frequency. It is directly proportional to the thickness — the thinner the fork, the lower the frequency.
In typical working environments, random vibration frequencies range from 0 to 800 Hz. If the tuning fork’s frequency falls within this range, resonance may occur, causing interference and unreliable measurements.
Currently, many manufacturers produce tuning fork level switches that can measure both liquids and solids. However, these dual-purpose devices often sacrifice some media density capability. As a result, their typical operating frequency ranges between 600–800 Hz, limiting their application scope, adaptability, and reliability, especially in special conditions.
Below is a comparison table showing the minimum detectable density for different tuning fork level switches:
[Image: Tuning Fork Level Switch Detectable Minimum Density Comparison Table]
The Ring-11 tuning fork level switch, developed by Shenzhen Jiwei Automation Technology Co., Ltd., is specifically designed for liquid measurement based on the principle of detecting changes in vibration frequency when the fork is immersed in the medium. Its frequency is set around 1200 Hz, making it suitable not only for standard tank and vessel applications but also for complex scenarios involving bubbles, viscous liquids, and vibrations. It can detect liquids as low as 0.5 g/cm³, ensuring stable and reliable performance in a wide range of operating conditions.
[Image: Ring-11 Tuning Fork Level Switch]
Additionally, the company has developed a tuning fork level switch tailored for solid material level detection, based on the principle of measuring changes in vibration amplitude when the fork comes into contact with the material. This model can detect materials as low as 0.008 g/cm³, making it ideal for ultra-low density applications. With high adaptability and reliability, the Fork-11 series offers performance comparable to imported brands.
This article highlights the challenges faced by some domestic tuning fork level switches and aims to help users choose more reliable options. For more information on level switches, magnetic level gauges, and other level measurement instruments, please follow the WeChat official account: Jiweimeter. (Source: [Website], please cite the source.)
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