SafePoint - Self-Validating Fail-Safe Bin Level Indicator

The SafePoint level sensor monitors its electrical and mechanical operating condition. This, in conjunction with separate outputs for material sense and unit status (fault conditions) make the SafePoint a "truly" fail-safe, self-validating device.

Imagine a bin level switch that is more than just an indicator of the presence or absence of material. Picture technology that allows intelligent devices to indicate when something is wrong. Dream that a level sensor provides real-time information when the quality of the sensor function no longer allows it to operate as you expect. That is a “self-validating” bin level indicator. Now you can wake up, your dream has arrived. Costly overfilling and outages due to sensor failure can now be avoided!

• Self-Validating Eliminates Costs Associated With Unexpected Sensor Failures
• Industry-First Magnetic Sensing Technology (Patented)
• Monitor Sensor Health, Not Just System Power Failure - "Fail-Safe" PLUS
• Twist On/Off Cover - No More Bolts!
• Wiring Access - 2 Conduit Entrances
• Motor Shuts Off When Paddle is Impeded to Significantly Extend Motor Life and Reduce Maintenance Costs
• Local Status Indicating Light On Most Models
• Standard SafePoint Level Switch Rated to +250°F (+121°C)
• Hi-Temp SafePoint Level Switch Rated to +750°F (+399°C)
• Hazardous Location Approval Available
• Unique Low Voltage DC Design Available

While the SafePoint level switch is an evolution in rotary paddle technology, it continues to use tried-and-true operating techniques. Unlike many other available units, the SafePoint incorporates a feature that automatically shuts off its motor when the paddle is in a stalled condition. This extends the life of the unit and minimizes maintenance.

The operation of the SafePoint® rotary paddle bin monitor uses patented technology to detect material presence and operational status of the unit. The unit is installed through the wall of the vessel so that the paddle protrudes inside the vessel. A small electric motor drives the paddle, which rotates freely in the absence of material.

The rotation of the unit’s shaft is continuously monitored by detection of a magnetized rotating disk. When the paddle is impeded by material, the shaft rotation stops. The motor rotates within the housing and magnetized sections of the motor mounting plate are detected. Use of these patented magnetic sensing techniques eliminates problems that occur with fouling of the optical systems used by other brands.
The built-in microcontroller performs self-validating diagnostics and monitors both shaft and motor mounting plate rotation. This allows the SafePoint to easily distinguish between material presence and any electrical and mechanical failure of the unit. When material presence is detected, the SENSE relay changes state and the drive motor is de-energized to extend motor life. This output is available to control a process function or alarm circuit. When the material level drops, a tension spring returns the drive motor to its original running condition and is reactivated.

A unit failure is detected by sensing a lack of shaft rotation while material presence has not been detected by rotation of the motor mounting plate. In a failure condition the independent FAULT relay will change state. Monitoring the state of both the SENSE and FAULT relays provides the most flexibility for control and monitoring that is beyond being just “fail-safe”

The rugged and reliable fail-safe design of the SafePoint® bin monitor makes it the best choice for critical level control applications. The unit is compatible with many granular, pelletized and powder bulk applications. It can be utilized for high level indication of materials over 10 lb/ft³ (160 kg/m³ ) and for low and intermediate level indication for materials over 5 lb/ft³ (80 kg/m³ ). The SafePoint bin level monitor can be installed almost anywhere dry bulk materials are stored including bins, hoppers, silos and tanks.

Typical Applications include, but are not limited to:

• Feed
• Silica Sand
• Rocks
• Pellets
• Wood
• Calcium Dust
• Rubber
• Metals
• Regrind
• Coal
• Peanuts
• Malt
• Clays
• Resin
• Limestone
• Grain
• Foundry Sand
• Pre-Mix Ingredients
• Rawhide
• Sawdust
• Coffee

• Power Requirements:
• 115 VAC (+/- 10%); 9 VA; 50/60 Hz
• 230 VAC (+/- 10%); 9 VA; 50/60 Hz
• 24 VAC/DC (+/- 15%); 11 VA
• Altitude: 6562 ft (2000 m) max
• Relative Humidity:  Suitable for outdoors
• Installation Category: II
• Pollution Degree: 4 (Reduced to 2 via enclosure)
• Ambient Operating Temp: -40°F (-40°C) to +150°F (65°C)
• Internal Bin Temp:
• Std. Unit: to +250°F (+121°C)
• Hi-Temp Unit: to +750°F (+399°C)
• Conduit Connection: Two(2) 3/4” NPT; M20 cable glands (Ordinary Location units with 1-1/2” BSPT process connection only; Not provided on Haz Loc units)
• Outputs: 
• Material Sense: One SPDT; 5A @ 250 VAC, 30 VDC max
• Unit Status (Fault): One SPDT; 5A @ 250 VAC, 30 VDC max
• Maximum Pressure: 30 PSI (2 bar)
• Sensitivity: 5 lb/ft³ (80 kg/m³ ) minimum material density (when using large 3-vane paddle)
• Indicators: Red and green high intensity LEDs indicate material sense and unit status conditions (Ordinary Location unit only)
• Housing: Die cast alum., NEMA 4 / ENCLOSURE TYPE 4, IP66
• Housing Finish: Powder coating
• Mounting Connection: 1-1/4" NPT or R 1-1/2 (BSPT 1-1/2)
• Shipping Weight: Approx. 8 lbs (3.63 kg)
• Materials of construction/accessories:
• Flexible Couplings: 304 stainless steel
• Mounting Plates: Carbon steel or 304 stainless steel
• All Paddles except Ex-Flex: 304 SS
• Ex-Flex Belt: 304 SS coupling, rubber/fabric blend belt
• Flexible Cable Extension: 304 SS 1/4” diameter
• Shaft Seal: Nitrile
• Listings/Approvals:
• CSA(US/C): Ordinary Locations; Class I, Div. 1&2, Groups C, D; Class II, Div. 1&2,
• ATEX:
• (Ex) II 1/2 D c T 85°C
• ExtD A20/A21 T 85°C
• (Ta -40°C to +65°C)
• IP6x
• IEC Ex:
• DIP A21 IP6X TA 100°C
• -40°C to +65°C
• CE Mark