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    Tank Level Sensors

    Jack Carr

    Article Published: July 17, 2024 10:19 AM
    Last Updated: October 13, 2025 10:42 AM
    Written by: Jack Carr

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    Gems sensorsThe all new ULS-200 level sensors for liquids are now available to order and have been designed as the perfect solid state point level measurement solution for installation in tank applications.

    Primarily designed as a water level sensor, this unit can also be supplied with an alternative probe for use on hydrocarbon liquids (eg. for use as an oil level sensor).

    This new all-in-one technology liquid level sensor is a ‘must-have’ solution for any tank installation where monitoring water level control is critical.

    Universal Level Measurement Solution for Tanks

    The ULS-200 advanced sensor technology encapsulates the best of what many existing level sensor types offer into one single unit.

    The following is a comparison of existing level sensing technologies and their advantages and disadvantages:

    Model ExampleTechnology TypePros/AdvantagesCons/Disadvantages

    CAP-300 Level Sensors

    CAP-300

    Capacitive Level Sensors

    • Five thread sizes
    • Three electrical connection options
    • Almost any mounting orientation
    • Under 3″ overall length
    • Only senses water-based media (oil and rugged media may coat the tip)
    • Low maximum pressure @ 100 PSI
    • No time delay options

    ELS-1150 Electro Optic Level Sensor

    ELS-1150

    Electro-Optic Level Sensors

    • Nickel-plated or 316L stainless steel construction
    • Minimal intrusion of prism inside tank
    • Under 2″ overall length
    • Wide temperature and pressure ranges
    • Very limited to environmental and conditional factors
    • Glass prism susceptible to reflections (false signals)
    • Limited mounting orientation
    • Only two thread sizes
    • Only flying leads or cable options
    • No time delay options

    XLS-1 Ultrasonic Level Sensor

    XLS-1

    Ultrasonic Level Sensors

    • Six thread sizes
    • All 316L stainless steel body and probe
    • Approximately 3″ overall length
    • Integral electrical connections
    • Limited mounting orientation
    • Lower maximum pressure @ 250 PSI
    • Limited to environmental and conditional factors
    • No time delay options

    LS-7 Float Type Level Switch

    LS-7

    Float Level Switches

    • Low cost for OEMs
    • Many mounting types & thread sizes
    • Many plastic and alloy materials available
    • Limited mounting orientations
    • Relies on specific gravity of liquids
    • Reed switch and mechanical parts prone to wear (moving parts)
    • No time delay options

    The ULS-200 incorporates the best advantages of all the above mentioned technologies into one single unit: 

    Category/TypeSensor Attributes

    Float Type Level Switch

    Float Type

    Capacitive Level Switch

    Capacitive Type

    Electro Optic Type Level Switch

    Electro-Optic Type

    Ultrasonic Level Switch

    Ultrasonic Type

    Universal Level Sensor

    ULS-200

    Media DetectedAqueuousYesYesYesYesYes
    Media DetectedHydrocarbon YesNoYesYesYes
    Media DetectedLow DielectricYesNoYesYesYes
    EnvironmentalHigh HumidityYesYesNoHalfYes
    EnvironmentalHigh PressureYesYesYesYesYes
    EnvironmentalHigh ReflectionYesYesNoYesYes
    EnvironmentalHigh ViscosityNoYesHalfHalfYes
    Special ConsiderationsBuild-Up PreventionNoYesHalfHalfYes
    Special ConsiderationsMounting OrientationNoHalfHalfHalfYes
    Special ConsiderationsTime DelaysNoNoNoNoYes

    “Yes” = Fully Supports, “Half” = Somewhat Supports, “No” = Does Not Support 

    Standard Level Sensor Configurations

    At Boiswood, we have consolidated the ULS-200 standard options into “easy-to-order” configurations

    Actuation ConditionBrass – 1/4″ NPTBrass – 1/2″ NPTBrass – M12 x 1.5Brass – G1/4″316L SS – 1/4″ NPT316L SS – 1/2″ NPT 316L SS – M12 x 1.5316L SS – G1/4″
    Wet Sink80151178015118801511980151208015121801512280151238015124
    Dry Sink80151258015126801512780151288015129801513080151318015132
    Wet Source80151338015134801513580151368015137801513880151398015140
    Dry Source80151418015142801514380151448015145801514680151478015148

    Above configurations are standard for Water media, without time delay and with Integral Deutsch DT04-3P connector. For additional non-standard options please contact Boiswood. 

    Off Highway Vehicle Success Story 

    In the demanding world of heavy off-highway (OHV) equipment, level sensors are critical components that must endure some of the harshest environmental conditions possible. From construction sites to mining operations, these sensors can be required to withstand fluctuating temperatures, dust/ingress and vibrations. Withstanding these environmental factors is crucial to maintaining equipment reliability and operational efficiency.

    Industry Challenges

    Level sensors installed in heavy OHV equipment face harsh outdoor environmental conditions:

     

    • Temperature variations – this equipment can be required to function under extreme temperature fluctuations ranging from -40°C to 50°C. This can cause sensor failures and inaccurate readings.  
       
    • Dust and Ingress – these industries often operate in dusty and dirty environments. Dust and debris can interfere with sensors, causing them to malfunction or fail, whilst ingress of water can corrode sensors.
       
    • Vibrations – heavy equipment often vibrates during operation, which can damage or displace sensors. This can lead to inaccurate readings or complete sensor failure.  

    Our Solution

    To overcome these challenges, level sensors installed in such equipment must be designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions. The sensors must be sealed against dust and moisture, and they should be shock-resistant and vibration-proof. They should also have a wide operating temperature range and be able to withstand electrical interference. Additionally, regular maintenance and calibration of the sensors are essential to ensure accurate readings and prevent failures.  

    • The ULS-200 point level sensor has a sealed construction that meets the IP6k9k rating for high-pressure wash-downs. It can operate in a wide temperature range of -40°F to +257°F (-40°C to +125°C) and a high-pressure range of 300 PSIG (20 bar). Moreover, the ULS-200 is insusceptible to vibrations, making it the perfect choice for mobile applications.  
       
    • The ULS-200 can be configured to meet your specific application needs, with additional options for time delays. This feature is especially useful for mobile equipment to prevent false signals caused by sloshing or turbulence. Time delay functions are available on request.
       
    • The ULS-200 level sensor employs solid-state output for point-level sensing with high accuracy and repeatability. Unlike common float-type switches that are prone to wear and tear, this sensor has no mechanical moving parts and lasts much longer.  
       

    Overall, the ULS-200 point level sensor is an excellent choice for those looking for a long-lasting, reliable sensor that can operate in the harshest conditions.  

    Types of Level Sensors

    Our single point level sensors are ideal for reliable and accurate tank level detection. Our liquid level sensors are available in a vast range of sizes, mountings, materials and sensing technologies (from mechanical to no moving parts) which include float type sensors and switches, electro optic level switches, capacitive level sensors and switches and ultrasonic level sensors.

    For more information on the various types of level sensors available and how they could serve your application, please follow our guide here

    Application Examples

    In addition to general tank level control and sensing applications, the ULS-200 can be considered for the following industries:

    • Construction – such as monitoring engine oil level on off-highway vehicles.
       
    • Emergency Vehicles – such as monitoring radiator coolant levels on fire trucks.
       
    • Buses & Recreational – such as measuring washer fluid level.
       
    • Agriculture – such as monitoring transmission fluid consumption in tractors.
       
    • Water & Waste Water Treatment – such as monitoring tank levels.
       
    • Power Generation – such as monitoring hydraulic oil levels in generators.
       
    • Renewable Energy – such as sensing liquid or condensate levels in knockout pots.
       
    • HVAC/R – such as monitoring water levels in coolant circuit loops.

    Other Level Solutions

    Moving away from the single point level sensing range, we can also help with:

    For our full range of level measuring solutions please visit our category page here.

    Why Use Gems Sensors?

    The key focus from Gems Sensors is to support customers with the best product solution. To achieve it, they apply a wealth of tools and global resources that include:

    • A dedicated team of application engineers and specialists, with over 50 years’ experience in industry, who specialise in developing bespoke solutions to meet customer demands.
       
    • An extensive product portfolio of thousands of proven designs, that reduce time required for end users to deliver a complete solution.
       
    • Working closely with official distributors like Boiswood to provide expert knowledge in fluid level, flow, pressure sensors, controls, solenoid valves and associated fluidic systems.
       
    • Utilising the resources of a Fortune 500 company, Gems can maintain their long-standing commitment to quality, lean manufacturing and ISO certification.
       
    • Dedicated tools and processes that eliminate product and process variation at every stage of manufacturing (monitoring aspects such as DFMEA and PFMEA).

    Not sure if these are right for you? For additional information on the types of level sensors available on the market, please visit our blog by clicking here.

    Need some guidance? Contact our experienced technical team here for application support and advice on components for your system.

    Meet the Author

    Jack Carr LinkedIn profile

    Jack Carr

    Technical Sales & Marketing Manager, Boiswood

    Jack combines deep technical expertise with hands-on experience in pressure and flow control systems. With a strong focus on real-world applications, he works closely with customers to understand their challenges and deliver fit-for-purpose solutions. His practical approach and in-depth product knowledge ensure every recommendation is accurate, efficient, and built around performance.

    View more blogs by Jack >

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