Ice cream is one of the world’s favorite foods. At the start of production, raw milk must be stored under strictly controlled hygienic conditions. Reliable level measurement plays a key role in ensuring smooth processes, enabling efficient cleaning cycles, and allowing flexible integration into dairy applications.
In a typical ice cream production plant, raw milk is temporarily held in an agitated vessel before further processing.
At the same time, challenges such as agitators, confined installation conditions in outlet pipes, and regular CIP/SIP cleaning cycles must be addressed.
Process Challenges
- High hygiene requirements for raw milk handling
- Frequent cleaning with chemically demanding CIP/SIP processes
- Agitators influencing the product surface
- Limited installation space in outlet piping
UWT Solution Concept: Radar and Vibration Technology Combined
For continuous level monitoring, a NivoRadar® NR 8400 is installed in the tank. Complementing this, two Vibranivo® VN 7120 sensors handle point level detection: one with extension for maximum level monitoring, and one compact version positioned in the outlet pipe.
The NivoRadar® NR 8400 is specifically designed for hygienic applications and meets key standards such as EC 1935/2004 and FDA. Its ±1 mm accuracy ensures stable and precise measurement results, even in agitated conditions.
Based on 80 GHz free-space radar technology, the sensor is ideally suited for liquids like milk. Interference caused by agitators can be easily managed via the UWT LevelApp, PACTware, or the integrated display. Its hygienic design, featuring wetted parts made of stainless steel 1.4404 (316L), PEEK, and PTFE, minimizes buildup and supports efficient cleaning.
The device operates reliably at temperatures up to 150 °C and pressures up to +16 bar. With protection ratings up to IP68 / Type 6P, it is well suited for CIP/SIP processes and high-pressure cleaning. A variety of hygienic process connections such as Tri-Clamp, Varinline, or DRD ensure flexible integration. Housing options include aluminum or stainless steel.
Reliable Point Level Detection
Two Vibranivo® VN 7120 sensors provide dependable point level control in hygienic design:
- The extended version (64 mm) monitors the maximum level in the tank and prevents overfilling
- The compact version installed in the outlet pipe ensures controlled discharge and protects downstream equipment
The VN 7120 is particularly well suited for hygienic environments thanks to its robust and cleaning-optimized design:
- Stainless steel housing and wetted parts (1.4404)
- Smooth surface finish supports easy cleaning and reduces buildup
- Hygienic adapters such as Tri-Clamp or flush-mounted connections
- Protection up to IP69 for resistance against moisture and high-pressure cleaning
- Reliable switching independent of turbulence, foam, air bubbles, or deposits
Benefits for the Operator
- Accurate measurement: Reliable continuous and point level detection
- High process reliability: Prevents overfill, performs under agitation, ensures controlled emptying
- Hygienic design: Compliant materials such as stainless steel, PEEK, PTFE (EC 1935/2004, FDA)
- Cleaning efficiency: Fully compatible with CIP and SIP processes
- Easy setup: Configuration via LevelApp, display, or PACTware
- Flexible integration: Wide range of hygienic process connections
- Maintenance-free: No recalibration required
Project Data
- Medium: Raw milk
- Measuring range: up to 5 m
- Process temperature: < 80 °C
Sensors:
- NivoRadar® NR 8400 with hygienic antenna
- Vibranivo® VN 7120 (compact and extended versions)
Tailored Sensor Solutions for Food Applications
By combining radar and vibration technology, UWT meets the demanding requirements of the food industry: hygienic, reliable, and efficient. At the same time, solutions can be adapted precisely to individual applications – whether through flexible configuration of standard devices or customized sensor designs.
