Smart Handling of Aggressive Media: UWT Sensors Monitor IBCs from the Outside

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Safe storage and reliable monitoring of caustic soda in dairy applications

Smaller dairies often require effective cleaning solutions without investing in large stationary tanks. A practical and increasingly popular approach is the use of intermediate bulk containers IBCs for disinfectants such as caustic soda NaOH. These containers enable the medium to be diluted and directed into the CIP and SIP system to remove fat residues from pipelines and processing equipment.

A key advantage of this approach is that the fill level can be monitored entirely contactless, directly through the plastic wall of the IBC. This not only improves safety but also reduces maintenance requirements and supports efficient plant operation.

Benefits of IBC storage in dairy processing

Using IBC containers for caustic soda storage provides several operational and safety advantages:

• Direct connection to dosing pumps without manual transfer
• A dosing station that allows safe dilution and controlled feeding
• Simple handling, with empty IBCs quickly exchanged and returned to the supplier
• UN approved design with tight screw caps and protective cages, meeting international requirements for storing and transporting corrosive media

This setup removes the need for large stationary tanks and offers smaller plants a flexible, safe, space efficient and more sustainable solution in terms of handling and resource use. It also supports improved hygiene standards, which are critical in dairy production environments.

uwt nivoradar nr7 application ibc 1 — The IBC fill level is detected non invasively from the outside

Reliable level measurement from outside the tank

To ensure safe and continuous monitoring, a stationary measuring point is installed at the IBC storage location. Here, UWT sensors track the fill level entirely from outside the container, eliminating any direct contact with the aggressive medium.

This non invasive approach is particularly beneficial when working with corrosive substances such as caustic soda, as it protects instrumentation and reduces the risk of contamination or failure.

Continuous level measurement with radar technology

The NivoRadar® NR 7100, a free radiating 80 GHz FMCW radar sensor, is mounted vertically above the container. Its narrow 8° beam angle delivers highly accurate and reliable measurements, even through the plastic wall of the IBC.

Radar level measurement is well suited to dairy and food processing environments where reliability, precision and minimal maintenance are essential. The use of 80 GHz technology ensures strong signal focus and excellent performance in compact installations such as IBC storage areas.

uwt capanivo cn7120 synthetic — The capacitive level switch Capanivo® CN 7120 measures the minimum level

uwt nivoradar nr7100 — The free radiating NivoRadar® NR 7100 detects the fill level

Point level detection for added safety

For additional safety, the Capanivo® CN 7120 capacitive sensor is installed externally at a low point next to the IBC. It acts as an empty level detector and provides a clear signal when the container needs to be replaced.

Its sensitivity can be adjusted via a potentiometer, allowing the sensor to adapt to different liquids if required. This flexibility is particularly useful in facilities where multiple cleaning agents or disinfectants may be used.

External installation ensures safety and flexibility

Because both sensors are mounted outside the IBC, they are fully protected from contact with caustic soda. This significantly extends their service life and ensures safe, reliable operation over time.

External installation also provides greater flexibility. When IBCs are replaced, different cleaning or disinfecting agents can be used without the need to reconfigure or recalibrate the measurement system. This reduces downtime and simplifies changeovers in busy dairy plants.

uwt ibc-tank nr7100 cn7120 — The IBC fill level is detected non invasively from the outside

Optimised solution for aggressive media handling

The combination of UWT radar and capacitive sensors offers a practical and dependable solution for handling aggressive media in smaller processing plants. By keeping all instrumentation external, the system enhances safety, reduces wear and supports long term operational efficiency.

At the same time, the use of standardised IBC containers ensures the system remains flexible, scalable and easy to manage across a range of cleaning and disinfecting applications. This makes it particularly suitable for dairies looking to optimise CIP and SIP processes while maintaining strict hygiene and safety standards.

UWT GmbH
Westendstr.5
87488 Betzigau, Germany
info@uwtgroup.com
www.uwtgroup.com