Why your 200 litre drums need a Digital Level Indicator

Digital level indicators like the  Lubretec DigOLevel S200L use ultrasound technology to give you contamination-free, accurate stock level readings in 200-litre drums. Their dual-stage alarm system (at 20L and 10L) ensures you have plenty of warning to prevent running out of fluid, avoiding costly downtime and pump damage. They are easy to install on a 3/4'' threaded bung hole and require simple maintenance (AAA battery replacement).

In the world of lubrication and fluid management, reliability and contamination control are paramount. Operating with an empty drum leads to costly downtime, potential pump damage from cavitation, and even air entry into your oil distribution lines. But how do you monitor your 200-litre oil or fluid drums accurately without compromising the contents? The answer lies in digital level indicators, like the Lubretec DigOLevel S200L.

This clever device offers a simple, contamination-free, and highly reliable solution to managing your stock, ensuring you always have advance notice before a drum runs dry.

The Mechanics of Contamination-Free Monitoring

Traditional methods of checking barrel levels often involve dipsticks or visual estimation, both of which introduce a high risk of contamination. Digital level indicators solve this by using  state-of-the-art ultrasonic level detection technology.

How the Technology Works

The device, such as the DigOLevel S200L, is installed on the top of the barrel, typically screwing into the  3/4''  threaded bung hole. It works by emitting ultrasound waves down into the drum's headspace.

• The ultrasound detector measures the  distance from the device to the liquid (or solid)  surface.
• An internal  algorithm  then converts this distance measurement into the drum's remaining  volume  (in litres).
• Crucially, the device does  not  come into direct contact with the barrel's contents. This compliance with  Lubrication Reliability™  rules means zero risk of introducing external contaminants, dirt, or moisture into your clean lubricant.
  

With factory-set calibration, these devices are able to measure the level of liquid in standard 200/210 litre barrels.

Essential features for proactive stock management

These digital indicators are more than just a measurement tool; they are a proactive warning system designed to give you ample time to replace an approaching empty drum.

Clear Display and Instant Readings

When you need a quick check, an instantaneous measurement can be displayed with a rapid press of the on/off button.

• "FULL" is displayed if the barrel contains more than 145 litres of fluid.
• The effective level (in litres) is displayed for contents between 145 and 20 litres.
• The devices also feature automatic measurement, checking the level every 20 minutes without displaying the reading unless an alarm is triggered.

Dual-Stage Low-Level Alarms

The most valuable feature is the two-stage alarm system that prevents unexpected shortages:

With factory-set calibration, these devices are able to measure the level of liquid in standard 200/210 litre barrels.

These alarms provide an efficient way to manage inventory, avoiding the panic associated with an unexpected empty barrel. Furthermore, some models, like the DigOLevel S200L, can also measure and display the environmental temperature.

⚠️  Important Operating and Environmental Considerations

To ensure the longevity and accuracy of your digital level indicator, adhere to the manufacturer's operational guidelines:

Essential Safety Warnings

• Avoid flammable liquids: Do not use the device on barrels containing flammable liquids or those releasing explosive gas.
• Keep barrels stable: The device should not be used on barrels placed on a sloping area. The barrel should be flat and stable.
• Prevent moisture exposure: Do not immerse the device in liquids or spill liquids on it.
• Do not move the barrel with the device installed.

Environmental Conditions

Accuracy can be compromised by extreme conditions. The optimal operating range is between -10°C and +45°C.

• Avoid direct sunlight: Do not expose the device to direct sunlight, as this will compromise the measurement.
• Avoid high temperatures: Do not expose the device to temperatures higher than 45°C.
• Avoid low temperatures: Do not use the device in moist locations with temperatures lower than -10°C.

Maintenance and Replacement

Maintenance is straightforward and mostly involves external cleaning and battery replacement.

Battery Replacement

The devices use non-rechargeable AAA Alkaline batteries.

1. Unscrew the four screws on the back of the device.
2. Remove the cover and the old batteries.
3. Insert new batteries, paying attention to the correct polarity.
4. Replace the cover and the screws.

When the batteries are discharged, the device will flash four dots every five seconds and will not provide measurements. The instruction is to switch the device off and change the batteries.

If you’re ready to upgrade your fluid management to a more reliable, contamination-free, and proactive system, digital level indicators are the perfect solution.