sap tank sensor

[Brent]

I'm looking into using an Omron 61F-GN1 automatic pump controller to pump up to my head tank.

This unit is activated by electrodes with 1mA electrode current. Has anyone out there tried this type of level sensor ???

This contoller has 3 level monitors in each tank. Hi-level/pump off, Lo-level pump on, and alarms for critical low levels. The monitors in the storage tank will not allow the pump to start if the levels go low. It looks like it is exactly what the doctor ordered.
http://www.ia.omron.com/product/family/243/index_l_u.html

Cost is just under $ 250.

[smitty76]

Brent, that sounds like the right control for the job. The new sap house that we are moving into may need a head tank setup (our current sap house does not need a head tank). Were did you find this controller, as I would be interested in getting one.

[Brent]

This is the best price I have found for it so far. We occasionally get GE/Fanuc CNC control parts from them.

Note that there is a delay to get them ... ie not in stock.

http://www.plccenter.com/buy/OMRON/61FG4NAC120240

[ennismaple]

I think there's a simpler solution - We use a reverse sump pump switch. You set the float so the pump turns on when the levels drop to say 8" from the bottom and to turn the pump off when the level gets to just below the top. The transfer pump plugs into the back of the cord that comes with the switch. Very easy to use and set up and I think it was only $35. Any plumbing supply store will have one.

[Brent]

That is a simple way for sure. It's what I had last year, but it has no alarms. With a faster evaporator coming on line (like you did last year) I want an alarm for when the outside or overhead tanks get low.

[Haynes Forest Products]

Do you want just the alarm or all the bells and whistles. You can make simple tank alarms with float switches. Go to Ebay and key words water level sensors or float switches. You can get floats for $3.50 that will turn on buzzers at the low liquid level.

[Haynes Forest Products]

Thanks guys every time you think something up im on Ebay buying parts
10 tank sensors...........1/2" bulk head type $30.00 3 mini sirens with warning lights...........$15.00 Yup I need to get away from the computer:)

[Squaredeal]

Why not set up a sight tube?
I have a tee in my outflow from the head tank with a 1 1/2 milk hose projecting upward. I can easily monitor it from where I boil -it is foolproof and easy to monitor as the level goes down. Every one that visits the sugarhouse knows that when the sap gets below the knot on the board that holds the milk tube that it's time to shut down.

[Brent]

I've never seen a sight tube that rings a bell, beeper or flashes a light. I've never seen one through the wall of the sugar shack either. As you age the concentration process seems to fade earlier and earlier every day. I want a system with alarms. If you've ever scorched a pan you'll appreciate the old axiom "an ounce of prevention ...."

[johnallin]

I've never seen a sight tube -- I've never seen one through the wall of the sugar shack either. "

Brent, not hard to do at all, just run the tube from the bottom of the tank and through the shack wall and then on up the wall.

Lots like that over here. You're on your own with the lights and sirens though :)