1. A new dimension in modularity
A multitude of solutions with plics®
plus
Tel: +44 (0)191 490 1547
Fax: +44 (0)191 477 5371
Email: northernsales@thorneandderrick.co.uk
Website: www.heattracing.co.uk
www.thorneanderrick.co.uk
2. 2
Content
Trend-setting measurement technology 3
plics®
– easy is better 4
More application possibilities through additional housings 6
Improved down to the last detail: the electronics modules 7
Adjustment – simpler than ever 8
Level measurement from the radar market leader 10
Level measurement: reliability in all processes 12
Level detection: maximum safety in every application 14
Pressure measurement: dependable in any position 16
Radiation-based measurement: for extreme process conditions 18
For the best connections: communication with VEGA 20
Service every day, all around in the world 22
3. 3
With plics®
plus, the ingenious modular concept is even better!
Easy is better – that rule also applies to plics®
plus. Setup and adjustment were simplified
even further. New housing versions and additional measuring principles extend the range of
application and simplify selection of the right technology. Quite special importance was given
to ensuring general compatibility between the existing and the new instrument adjustment
concept. In the VEGA product system everything fits together perfectly: housings, electronics
and software as well as process fittings and sensors.
plics®
plus –
the consistent development of plics®
Trend-setting measurement technology
Perfectly simple, simply perfect
VEGA Grieshaber KG is a worldwide leading company in the area of level, switching and pressure
instrumentation. This strong position was achieved through consistent, goal-oriented development
of innovative, trend-setting products. Sensors from VEGA solve the most demanding measurement
problems in many different fields. When it comes to cost-effective technical solutions, VEGA is a
trusted partner for all industries. Because they all profit from VEGA’s core philosophy: simplify the
application and increase safety.
4. 4
plics®
plus –
still more advantages
The modules
Every plics®
instrument is assembled from several modules:
the sensor is joined via a process fitting to a housing of
plastic, aluminium or stainless steel. Then comes the electro-
nics module, which is installed in the housing. The indicating
and adjustment module PLICSCOM is located on top of the
electronics, making it directly accessible after the lid is
unscrewed. Anyone who has once operated a plics®
instrument can operate all other plics®
instruments.
New measuring principles: microwave barrier■
and radiation-based measurement
New areas of application through double-chamber■
housings of stainless steel and plastic
New sensor for differential pressure measurement■
Higher accuracy through more powerful■
hardware and software
Simplified commissioning■
Improved diagnosis, servicing and■
maintenance options
Improved instrument documentation■
plics®
– easy is better
Easy is better
plics®
makes measurement technology simpler than ever
before: from selecting and ordering, setup and commis-
sioning, right through to maintenance and service. VEGA
has thought through this “easy is better” principle consis-
tently right down to the last detail. As a result, plics®
is
able to solve the most demanding measurement prob-
lems dealing with level, switching and pressure.
The plics®
modular concept
The idea behind plics®
is simple: after an order is
received, the measuring instrument is assembled from
prefabricated individual components. In this way, VEGA
customers get the optimal instrument for their particular
application requirements – custom-made and fast. The
modular principle also brings its cost advantage to bear,
because these instruments are simply more cost-effective
– throughout their entire life cycle.
6. 6
Double-chamber plastic housing
The light plastic housing of Valox is predestined for all standard
applications in which a lateral display is required. The lateral
connection compartment provides room for additional compo-
nents, such as the PLICSMOBILE, a GSM/GPRS radio module.
The low weight and the compact dimensions make handling the
instruments really easy. When the sensors are supplied via intrin-
sically safe circuits, the housing can also be deployed in
Ex areas of category Ex ia.
Double-chamber stainless steel housing
The extremely robust, solidly built stainless steel housing is
ideal for the rough operating conditions in offshore, petro-
chemical and shipbuilding applications. Mounting even in very
exposed locations is no problem thanks to the high protection
rating up to IP 68. This universal housing concept also makes
implementation possible in areas with special requirements,
like Ex areas of category Ex ia or Ex d.
Electropolished single-chamber stainless steel housing
Due to its very smooth surface, the electropolished stainless steel housing
is optimally suited for use in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Its
high protection rating of IP 67 or IP 68 makes thorough cleaning possible.
The high corrosion resistance of the polished stainless steel surface is
of great advantage particularly in harsh environments. When the sensors
are supplied via intrinsically safe circuits, the housing can be used for all
applications in explosion-endangered areas of category Ex ia.
More application possibilities through additional housings
7. 7
a few seconds. Guide rails secure the electronics
in the housing even under extreme mechanical
loads and thus make application possible under
very rough operating conditions. The low operating
voltage of only 9.6 V allows connection of the new
electronics modules to all control systems or exist-
ing evaluation systems – even supply via batteries
or solar panels is feasible.
Electronics module with a
new connection concept
The supply and signal lines of every plics®
plus elec-
tronics module are connected with new spring-loaded
terminals that do not require the use of any tools. Plug-
gable terminal blocks and mechanical disassembly
aids make an exchange of electronics possible within
More performance for more safety
All new plics®
plus instruments were developed according to IEC 61508.
VEGA also implemented an extensive safety management system that
guarantees highest standards in the development of safety-oriented
instruments. This makes it possible to use all the instruments for appli-
cations up to SIL2, and with redundant configuration even up to SIL3.
Of course, these high requirements at VEGA also guarantee a plus in
safety in applications that are not specifically safety-oriented.
Optimised electronics
for use in Ex areas
Because the latest Ex guidelines were taken
into account in their development, the sensors
are available in different Ex versions and thus
cover the requirements of all current standards.
Whether intrinsically safe Ex ia or pressure-tight
encapsulation Ex d, whether gas Ex or dust Ex –
plics®
plus instruments meet every requirement.
Improved down to the last detail: the electronics modules
8. 8
“Intelligent electronics” for
asset management
Asset management reports according to NE 107 enable
foresightful sensor servicing and effective protection
of production processes. For analysis and diagnosis,
plics®
plus sensors have a data memory holding a total
of 100,000 measured values and 500 events with real
time information, which provides the basis for initiating
appropriate servicing measures.
VEGA DTMs according to
the FDT Style Guide
In the plics®
plus system, all VEGA DTMs have been
converted to the new standard according to the FDT
Style Guide. As a result, all field instruments can be
adjusted with one standardised, user-friendly inter-
face. Measured values and similar recurring infor-
mation on the instruments can be found simply and
quickly without a long search.
Sensor adjustment in a new quality –
compatibility guaranteed
Like their predecessors, the new DTMs are fully
compatible with all VEGA instruments. And they can
be used for adjustment independent of the instru-
ment software version. A laborious coordinating of
instrument software and DTM version is thus not
necessary. That’s a clear plus in convenience and
user-friendliness – simply plics®
plus.
Operation with the optimised PLICSCOM
Work is easier with plics®
plus: the PLICSCOM under
the lid of VEGA instruments now provides new foil
buttons with an optimised pressure point for a more
direct response when pressed. The fast serial bus
connection increases the reaction speed. A self-
explanatory menu structure makes navigation easier
and simplifies the adjustment of parameters. And the
new PLICSCOM is of course fully compatible with all
plics®
and plics®
plus sensors!
Simplified setup and analysis
Adjustment – simpler than ever
9. 9
Configuration and parameter adjustment with PACTware
PACTware is the ideal configuration software for all field instruments, from mobile
computer to process control centre. On the system level, the operator experiences
application-optimised, user-friendly interfaces in the usual VEGA quality. As a
manufacturer and fieldbus independent interface, PACTware coordinates the data
exchange and supports all standard protocols of communication-capable field
devices. Advantage: this free-of-charge, manufacturer independent software enables
adjustment and operation of all plics®
and plics®
plus instruments in a plant.
10. 10
The measuring techniques
Ultrasonic
Short ultrasonic pulses are emitted by the transducer in
the direction of the measured product, reflected by its
surface and received back again by the transducer. The
temperature-compensated signal running time meas-
ured from emission to reception is proportional to the
level in the vessel.
Radar
Extremely short microwave pulses are emitted by
the antenna in the direction of the measured product,
reflected by its surface and received back again by
the antenna system. The measured time between
emission and reception of the signals is proportional
to the level in the vessel.
VEGAPULS – radar even more capable
plics®
plus brings to the VEGAPULS instrument series a new antenna
system for process temperatures up to 450 °C. The antennas with higher
chemical resistance widen the application range even further. New, fast
microprocessors provide more computing power for signal analysis and
allow complex processing algorithms. This opens up new possibilities
for measurement under the difficult measuring conditions in reactors or
bulk solids silos. At the same time, setup is further simplified and new
application parameters added to make adjustment simpler for complex
applications.
Non-contact level measurement
Whether radar or ultrasonic: both VEGA technologies
combine high process reliability with low operating costs.
They operate without touching the medium and thus remain
unaffected by its properties. Radar measurement in par-
ticular has gained great acceptance: difficult process condi-
tions like pressure, temperature or overlying gas do not
influence it. The instruments are compact, maintenance-
free and universally applicable.
From pioneer to market leader
The first intrinsically safe radar instrument in two-wire
technology was pioneer work that quickly made VEGA
the world market leader in radar level measurement.
Application-optimised hardware and software as well as
compact dimensions make VEGAPULS so extremely
versatile and reliable. This is not only for liquid media,
but also under the problematic conditions of bulk solid
measurement, like intense dust generation, unfavour-
able repose angles, filling noise and difficult mounting
situations.
Level measurement from the radar market leader
12. 12
Capacitive measurement
Sensor and vessel form the two electrodes of a
capacitor. A change of level causes a capacitance
change that is evaluated by the electronics and
outputted as a level signal.
Guided microwave
High frequency microwave pulses are coupled to a
cable or rod, guided along the probe and reflected
by the product surface. The measured time from
emission to reception of the signals is proportional
to the level in the vessel.
The measuring techniques
Contacting measurement techniques
Measurement with guided microwave is insensitive to dust,
steam and foam. Product changes and buildup are also
no problem. This reasonably priced technology lends itself
well for measurement of all liquids like solvents or hydro-
carbons – even in bypass tubes. Guided microwave is a
tried-and-trusted solution for bulk solids, from granulates
to cement or flour. Capacitive measuring probes stand
out due to their ruggedness and low maintenance require-
ments and allow level measurement in places where other
contacting techniques cannot be used.
VEGAFLEX – guided microwave still better
The VEGAFLEX instruments with their guided microwave measuring
principle (also called TDR) also profit from the increased efficiency of
the plics®
plus hardware and software. The intelligent and extremely fast
measured value processing leads to even higher measurement reliability
and a widened application range. Special versions for process temperatures
from -200 °C to +450 °C for interface measurement and boiler applications
extend the already wide performance spectrum of VEGAFLEX.
Keeping the process under control
with continuous level measurement
In the chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical and
food industries, in environmental engineering as well as
in many other areas, VEGA measurement technology
creates a reliable substructure for control and monitor-
ing functions. plics®
offers products that cover all the
requirements of bulk solids and liquids applications. For
example, the most optimal application-specific housing,
whether of plastic, aluminium or high-grade steel, can
be selected independently of the measuring technique.
Level measurement:
reliability in all processes
14. 14
Vibrating level switch
VEGAVIB
Vibrating level switch
VEGASWING
Level detection in bulk solids
The vibrating level switches VEGAVIB and VEGAWAVE
are used on vessels, silos and conveying and filling
systems for bulk solids. While VEGAWAVE, with its
tuning fork, displays its strengths in powdered media, the
vibrating rod of the VEGAVIB fulfils all requirements for
use in granular materials. Bulk solid material cannot jam
the instrument. When robust construction or insensitivity
to strong buildup is required, the capacitive level switch
VEGACAP is unbeatable in bulk solids.
Level detection in liquids
plics®
vibrating level switches VEGASWING serve
as level detectors in liquids like water, acids, lyes,
hydrocarbons and emulsions. They can be used
on containers, tanks, apparatuses and processing
machines. VEGASWING can be deployed in processes
with pressures from -1 to +63 bar and temperatures
from -50 °C to +250 °C. In cases where heavy buildup
forms on the sensor, the capacitive measuring probe
VEGACAP is the right choice.
Setup without adjustment■
Optimum rod design■
prevents buildup and
jamming of bulk solids
No alignment needed■
for lateral mounting
Easy cleaning■
Setup without adjustment■
Product-independent■
switching point
High-resistance materials■
Hygienic versions■
up to Ra < 0.3 µm
Complete function test■
with SIL and WHG
VEGAMIP – non-contact level detection in bulk solids
The new plics®
plus microwave barrier is employable as mini-
mum and maximum detector. It is particularly suitable for rough
operating conditions, because it is impaired neither by strong dust
generation, nor by fluctuating product temperatures. Changing
product properties like density, granulation, dielectric figure,
humidity and conductivity have practically no effect on VEGAMIP.
Level detection:
maximum safety in every application
15. 15
Capacitive level switch
VEGACAP
Vibrating level switch
VEGAWAVE
The measuring techniques
highly sensitive receiver detects the attenuation of
the signal caused by the medium. A damping of the
signal generates a switching command.
Capacitive level switches
Sensor and vessel form the two electrodes of a
capacitor. A capacitance change caused by a change
of level is processed by the built-in electronics.
Vibrating level switches
The tuning fork or vibrating rod is made to vibrate at
resonance frequency by piezoceramic elements. In
liquids, a frequency change triggers the switching com-
mand; in bulk solids, an attenuation of the amplitude.
Microwave barrier
A microwave transmitter generates a continuous
microwave signal with a frequency of 24 GHz. The
Easy setup■
Very rugged sensor construction■
Buildup-proof versions■
Cable and rod versions■
Shortenable, blank probes■
Setup without adjustment■
Rugged construction■
Insensitive to buildup and■
statically charged products
Bulk solids with densities■
> 8 g/l detectable
16. 16
Measuring cells developed by VEGA
The heart of most of the pressure transmitters is the
CERTEC®
measuring cell, which was developed by VEGA
and fabricated of sapphire-ceramic®
. This oilfree measur-
ing cell stands out due its very high overload resistance,
excellent long-term stability as well as high corrosion and
abrasion resistance. For high temperatures up to 200 °C
and extremely aggressive media there is the metallic
METEC®
measuring cell, also developed by VEGA. It is
completely welded, can be mounted front flush and boasts
full vacuum resistance and good thermal shock behaviour.
VEGA pressure measuring cells automatically compensate
the influence of product temperature.
Differential pressure measurement with VEGADIF
Another innovation plics®
plus brings is the differential pressure
transmitter VEGADIF. Among its impressive features is the very high
unidirectional overload resistance, which provides protection under
system pressures up to 420 bar, and its excellent long-term stability.
With function monitoring spanning from measuring cell to electronics,
VEGADIF lends itself well to applications in plant construction, in the
chemical and petrochemical industries, as well as in environmental
and process engineering.
Suspension pressure transmitter
VEGABAR 60
Pressure transmitter
VEGABAR 50
Suspension pressure■
transmitter
Metal-free versions■
Product temperatures■
up to +100 °C
Process pressures■
up to 1000 bar
Customer-specific■
process fittings
Product temperature■
without isolating diaphragm
up to +200 °C
CIP and SIP capable■
Always the most suitable product
Hot and corrosive media in the chemical industry belong
just as much to the application range of VEGA pressure
transmitters as drinking water production and treatment.
VEGA also offers solutions that guarantee aseptic clean-
liness in the pharmaceutical and food processing industry.
When it comes to measurement of hydrostatic pressure,
process pressure and differential pressure, VEGA offers
housing versions and measuring cells that can meet the
needs of practically any application.
Pressure measurement:
dependable in any position
17. 17
Differential pressure measurement
The two hydrostatically connected process dia-
phragms act on a measuring cell. Depending on
the pressure difference, the diaphragm of the
measuring cell is deflected in one direction or the
other. The deflection is measured electrically and
converted into a level-proportional signal.
Hydrostatic level measurement
The weight of the liquid column deflects the diaphragm
of the measuring cell. The deflection is measured elec-
trically and converted into a level-proportional signal.
Process pressure measurement
The pressure force of a gas or a liquid deflects the
diaphragm of the measuring cell. The deflection is
measured electrically and converted into a level-
proportional signal.
The measuring techniques
Differential pressure transmitter
VEGADIF
Suspension pressure transmitter
VEGAWELL
Level and gauge measurement■
Diameter 22 or 32 mm■
Built-in overvoltage protection■
Differential pressure and■
level measurement
Unilateral overload resistance■
up to 420 bar
Fault monitoring of■
measuring cell
Measuring cell fully welded■
18. 18
Level and density measurement with PROTRAC
Special applications …
… require special solutions. For
some areas of application, no
alternative to radiation-based
measurement has been found
to this day. Extreme tempera-
tures, high process pressures
and difficult installation condi-
tions represent a challenge that
only non-contact radiation-based
measurement can handle reliably.
The different detector variants make
ProTrac instruments quite flexible,
allowing them to be adapted to the
most difficult measurement tasks.
Application areas
Continuous level measurement■
Density and concentration measurement■
Interface measurement■
Point level detection■
Mass flow measurement■
Simple adjustment and safe operation
With plics®
plus and ProTrac, the setup and operation
of a radiation-based measurement is simpler than ever
before. The local adjustment module PLICSCOM
can be used to set parameters in simple level or
density applications. High-performance DTMs with
helpful assistants for setup and analysis are available
for complex measurement tasks requiring in some
cases several detectors or additional sensors for
temperature or flow rate measurement.
The latest IEC 61508 (SIL) compliant detectors as
well as SHLD source holders meeting the most
stringent requirements to guarantee safe operation
of the entire system. This all adds up to a maximum
of user convenience and safety for people and the
environment.
Level gauge
SOLITRAC
Level gauge
FIBERTRAC
PVT rod detector for■
cylindrical vessels
Measuring range up to 3 m■
Rod detectors cascadable■
for larger measuring ranges
Flexible plastic detector for■
round and conical vessels
Measuring range up to 7 m■
Detectors cascadable for■
larger measuring ranges
Radiation-based measurement:
for extreme process conditions
19. 19
received by the detector.This measured radiation inten-
sity is directly proportional to the continuous level, point
level, density or mass flow rate. Radiation-based meas-
urement is independent of process pressure, process
temperature and all chemical properties of the medium.
Mass flow gauge
WEIGHTRAC
Density gauge
MINITRAC
PVT rod detector■
Mass flow measurement■
of bulk solids
For belt and screw conveyors,■
chain trough conveyors
NaI detector■
Density and concentration■
measurement
Flow rate measurement in pipes■
Point level detection■
Radiation-based measurement
In radiation-based measurement, a low level source is
safely embedded into a shielded source holder with an
aperture that emits focussed gamma rays. Process
medium or level changes progressively shield the
electromagnetic energy emitted from the source and
The measuring technique
20. 20
Radio-supported communication
with PLICSRADIO
With PLICSRADIO, sensors can transmit their measured
values and settings wirelessly and absolutely reliably to
the control centre or a relay station. Depending on radio
frequency and antenna version, the maximum transmis-
sion distance can be up to 1,000 m (2.4 GHz) or 1,600 m
(902 MHz). Because the system employs a license and
registration free radio frequency range, PLICSRADIO
represents a simple, dependable radio link for over-
coming obstacles, expanding existing systems or inte-
grating mobile system components. PLICSRADIO makes
radio-supported measurement technology simple, safe
and reliable.
Simple inventory monitoring
with WEB-VV
Convenient visualization, long-term data storage, exten-
sive notification functions and interfaces to current mer-
chandise management systems – that’s WEB-VV. Based
on modern web technologies, this software from VEGA
enables simple and reliable inventory management of
all tank data, both locally in a company network and
worldwide over the Internet. Its use extends from visuali-
zation of levels for simple manual inventory management
to completely automatic recording and further processing
of inventory data for merchandise management systems.
The basis for this is the perfect data interaction between
it and the on-site VEGA measurement technology.
For the best connections: communication with VEGA
21. 21
Signal conditioning instrument
VEGAMET 391
VEGA signal conditioning instruments assume simple
monitoring and control functions. VEGAMET 391 is a new
instrument version with interfaces for Ethernet, USB 2.0 and
RS232 for PCs as well as for control and process manage-
ment systems. For safety-oriented applications there is also
an SIL version available. The requested measurement is
shown on the display and can be passed on to an external
display or a superordinate control system. Integration into
WEB-VV can be carried out with no problem.
New application areas in communication
Long-distance data transmission
with PLICSMOBILE
PLICSMOBILE integrates long-distance data transmission to
the VEGA product line. Making use of quad-band technology,
it performs measurement transmission, remote diagnosis and
maintenance worldwide via the public telephone network.
The PLICSMOBILE has a standard SIM card integrated in the
double-chamber plastic housing – optionally together with the
sensor, or in a separate housing with an accumulator or battery.
Application areas are e.g. mobile silos, deep wells, high vessels,
waste oil collection points as well as river and sea levels.
22. 22
SPEED – VEGA’s delivery time concept
Products with the stopwatch symbol in the VEGA cata-
logue are ready for despatch within 5 working days. This
production speed is made possible by a cleverly devised
cooperation between EDP and work planning that begins
the moment an order is received. SPEED also shortens
the general response time: enquiries are immediately
answered either directly on the telephone or by e-mail.
VEGA also sets a brisk pace when it comes to drafting
tenders and carrying out repairs. When necessary, VEGA
provides a substitute instrument during the repair so that
uninterrupted production and safety are guaranteed.
Present all around the world
VEGA is where the customers are: in many countries,
on all continents. With subsidiaries and select distribu-
tion partners. We are present in Europe in 27 countries
and in North and South America in 10 countries. In Asia
and Australia we maintain intensive market contact
in 17 countries. No matter where you contact us: the
comprehensive know-how of our qualified experts will
offer a solution to your measurement problem.
Service every day, all around in the world
23. 23
Web shop “vega-line”
VEGA products that are easy to implement
and that require hardly any consultation can be
quickly and easily ordered by telephone, fax, or
e-mail or via the web shop. And that at attractive
net prices.
www.vega-line.com
24-hour service hotline
Get any question on setup, operation or servicing
answered quickly – even on weekends. The service
is in English and free of charge. The only costs
incurred are the usual telephone charges.
Service hotline: +49 1805 85 85 50
www.vega.com – Know-how and service
The “finder”
It only takes a few mouse clicks to specify
your application and receive straightaway
a recommendation for the most suitable
measuring principle.
The “configurator”
After selecting a measuring principle, you
can assemble all instrument components
online – from housing to electronics to
process fitting.
“Serial number search”
Besides article number, delivery date and
exact instrument configuration you get all
documentation and approvals associated
with the instrument in PDF format.
