#Product Trends
Reliable Point Level Detection for Coffee Filling
With the UWT Vibrating Fork Vibranivo® 4020 - allways the right choice
A production facility for coffee and cocoa products was looking for a reliable solution for point level detection during manufacturing and packaging. The particular challenge was that various products such as instant coffee, chicory, and cocoa were used alternately, each with different material properties. Despite this variety, the sensor needed to operate consistently and precisely, without the need for recalibration.
Process reliability with varying bulk materials – no need for recalibration
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THE CHALLENGE
The product range included various materials such as roasted coffee beans, ground coffee, instant coffee, chicory, and cocoa. Instant coffee, in particular, may contain sugar and milk powder, depending on the variety, which creates a particularly sticky substance during mixing - a real challenge for level measurement technology.
In the packaging line, a solution was needed that ensured reliable point level detection even with frequently changing bulk materials while also meeting strict hygiene requirements.
KEY CHALLENGES AT-A-GLANCE:
• Varying material properties during alternating operation
• Strong buildup of fine and sticky powders
• Abrasive stress caused by continuous material flow
• Wide temperature fluctuations: -40 °C to +100 °C (-40 °F to +212 °F)
• High switching frequency during ongoing operation
• Compliance with strict hygiene regulations
Another important aspect: the sensor technology had to operate with minimal maintenance and be hermetically sealed from the process in order to ensure product purity and system safety.
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OUR SOLUTION: VIBRATING FORK VIBRANIVO® VN 4020
For this application, the Vibranivo® VN 4020 vibrating level switch proved to be the ideal solution thanks to its high flexibility and reliable performance during frequent product changes. Its intelligent sensor technology detects different bulk materials – without the need for calibration or adjustment.
Installed laterally in a 50–90 cm high stainless steel container, the vibrating fork reliably prevents empty runs and ensures a smooth packaging process – even under demanding conditions.
KEY ADVANTAGES AT-A-GLANCE:
• Material-independent: detects instant coffee, milk powder, sugar, and chicory without the need for adjustments
• Hermetically sealed: reliably protects the process area from dust ingress
• Maintenance-free in continuous operation: ideal for frequent switching under demanding conditions
• Hygienic & robust: smooth stainless steel surfaces (1.4404 / 316L), temperature-resistant from -40 °C to +150 °C (-40 °F to +302 °F)
• Compact design: easy side-mount installation, even in confined spaces
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