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Captrol 514

RF Capacitance Multi-Point Level Switch

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Captrol 514

The Captrol 514 is designed for engineers, plant operators, and OEM system integrators who require dependable multi-point level detection for liquids, slurries, or bulk solids.

The device provides four independent level setpoints, microcontroller-based RF capacitance switching, and programmable relay logic within a rugged, explosion-proof enclosure.

Unlike mechanical float or paddle switches that are susceptible to wear, coating, or false trips, the Captrol 514 uses high-frequency capacitance sensing with a driven-guard probe design and solid-state electronics. This allows it to deliver precise and repeatable level control even in harsh, high-temperature, corrosive, or variable-dielectric applications.

The Captrol 514 consolidates multiple switching functions into a single intelligent instrument. This reduces wiring, installation costs, and maintenance while improving overall operational safety.

It is well suited for applications such as pump control, overfill protection, batch processes, and multi-level alarms.

Captrol 514
Captrol 514 RF Capacitance Multi-Point Level Switch
Captrol 514

Features

Four Independent Setpoints

Handles multiple alarms or pump-control functions from a single device, reducing hardware requirements and simplifying panel layouts in engineered or packaged systems.

RF Capacitance Sensing

Provides stable switching unaffected by coating, vibration, turbulence, or changing dielectric properties, ensuring consistent multi-point performance across solids, liquids, and slurries.

Microcontroller-Based Calibration

Digital logic maintains repeatability and prevents drift, enabling precise multi-level configuration without the mechanical instability found in traditional switches.

Explosion-Proof Housing

NEMA 4/5/7/9/12 construction allows safe installation in hazardous areas, protecting personnel and maintaining compliance in chemical, petrochemical, and industrial sites.

Integral or Remote Probes

Flexible mounting supports confined spaces, high-temperature applications, or locations requiring off-tank electronics to improve accessibility and long-term serviceability.

Selectable Fail-Safe Logic

High-level or low-level fail-safe modes ensure predictable behavior during power loss or wiring faults, enhancing process safety and equipment protection.

Applications

  • Pump Sequence Control: Uses four programmable setpoints to manage fill, empty, and warning levels, preventing overflow, run-dry events, or pump short-cycling in industrial or municipal systems.
  • Viscous or Coating Liquids: RF technology rejects buildup effects, enabling reliable switching in sticky slurries or liquids where floats, paddles, or optical sensors often foul or jam.
  • Corrosive or Hot Media: Teflon or Kynar probe options resist aggressive chemicals and higher temperatures, allowing dependable operation in demanding process tanks and reactors.
  • Plastic or Non-Metal Tanks: Dual-probe/artificial ground capability ensures accurate sensing in vessels without natural grounding, maintaining performance in fiberglass or polyethylene tanks.
  • Bulk Solids & Powders: Capacitance sensing penetrates dust and turbulence to detect level reliably in powders, pellets, or granular solids where mechanical switches experience wear.
  • OEM Skids & Packages: Four relays consolidate multi-point logic, reducing components and wiring in compact OEM systems such as pump skids, batching units, or chemical feed assemblies.
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Specifications

Category

Specification

Technology

RF Capacitance, microcontroller-based multipoint switching

Outputs

Four independent SPDT Form C relays

Relay Rating

5A @ 110/220 VAC, 3A @ 24 VDC (non-inductive)

Setpoints

Independently programmable: High, Low, or Off

Supply Power

110/220 VAC @ 60 Hz or 24 VDC

Sensitivity

1/4 pF max.

Time Delay

Selectable 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 seconds

Enclosure

Die-cast aluminum, fused polyester paint; NEMA 4,5,7,9,12

Enclosure Hazardous Ratings

NEC Class I Div II; Class II Div II (Div 1 pending)

Temperature Range

–40 °C to +73 °C (–40 °F to +165 °F)

Probe Options

Rigid or flexible; food-grade, Teflon, Kynar, dual-rod

Mounting

NPT or flange (CS/SS)

Fail-Safe Modes

Field-configurable (high or low level)

Calibration

Digital calibration, LED diagnostic display

Approvals

FM, Cenelec pending, CSA pending

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If you have questions not covered here, please contact the Cognesense support team for assistance.

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How many level points can the Captrol 514 monitor?

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It supports four independent setpoints, enabling multi-level alarms and pump control in a single device.

Can it handle sticky or viscous materials?

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It supports four independent setpoints, enabling multi-level alarms and pump control in a single device.

Is the unit suitable for hazardous environments?

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Yes. The CAPTROL 514 features an explosion-proof enclosure and industrial safety approvals for harsh environments.

Can it be used in plastic or non-metallic tanks?

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Yes. The CAPTROL 514 features an explosion-proof enclosure and industrial safety approvals for harsh environments.

Does it replace multiple level switches?

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Yes. It combines four level points and relay outputs into one instrument, reducing wiring, penetrations, and cost.

How does the Captrol 514 replace four separate level switches?

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The CAPTROL 514 integrates the sensing capability and the output control logic for four separate setpoints into a single probe and housing. Each setpoint is programmed independently to actuate one of the four internal SPDT relays, allowing one device to manage critical functions like high-high shutdown, high alarm, pump-on, and pump-off, simplifying wiring and reducing installation costs.

What is the benefit of microcontroller-based setpoint logic?

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Microcontroller-based logic provides superior precision and repeatability compared to older analog components. It allows for accurate digital calibration and prevents the setpoints from drifting over time or interacting with each other when adjusted. This ensures that the switching points remain exactly where they were set during commissioning.

Can it be installed remotely from the vessel?

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Yes. Remote probe options allow mounting electronics away from heat, vibration, or limited-access locations.

What industries commonly use this device?

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Common deployments include oil & gas terminals, chemical plants, food processing, biogas systems, water treatment, and bulk storage facilities.

Summary

With rugged RF capacitance sensing, four independent relay setpoints, and explosion-proof construction, the Captrol 514 provides a powerful multi-level point detection solution for liquids, slurries, and solids across oil & gas, chemical, food, water treatment, and bulk processing environments.

It consolidates multiple switches into one intelligent device, reducing installation cost, wiring, and maintenance while enhancing reliability and control. Backed by decades of engineering excellence, the Captrol 514 is a proven choice for critical level safety, pump protection, overfill prevention, and process automation.

L&J
Measure.
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