At drinktec Munich (12-16 September 2022), sensor technology expert Baumer showcased innovative smart sensor solutions tailored for the beverage and liquid food industry. Resource efficiency was a central theme, with manufacturers seeking ways to maximize equipment capacity amid rising raw material and energy costs. Baumer addressed these challenges through its latest product innovations in IO-Link sensor technology, demonstrating how precise measurements and intelligent features can streamline operations from inventory management to packaging (booth A3.300).

High-Performance Sensors for Resource Savings

For beverage manufacturers, significant savings opportunities exist in Clean-in-Place (CIP) processes and heat exchangers. High-precision sensors with fast response times reduce energy and media consumption by delivering accurate measurements quickly. Baumer’s portfolio includes hygienic sensors designed for conductivity, flow, temperature, filling level, and pressure monitoring—ideal for CIP systems where reliability is critical.

The new PAC50 sensor exemplifies this innovation: a compact yet high-performance conductivity sensor with stability up to 140°C. Product Manager Martin Leupold highlights its benefits: “Its ability to save energy, cleaning agents, and water makes it ideal for resource-intensive CIP applications.” As the smaller sibling of the AFI4/5 series, PAC50 fits seamlessly into compact production lines without compromising performance.

Flexible Sensors for Inventory Management

Managing diverse product variants and fluctuating demand requires adaptable systems. Baumer’s smart sensors for storage tanks address tasks like head pressure measurement, foam detection, and temperature monitoring. For instance, the CleverLevel sensor offers real-time empty-tank notifications to optimize resource use during frequent media changes—even sticky or pasty substances can be detected reliably without reconfiguration.

Pump Protection Against Cavitation and Dry Run

The new PAD20 sensor provides reliable detection of gas bubbles in fluids, preventing pump damage from dry run or cavitation. Its compact design allows for quick adjustments to individual limits on gas inclusions, enabling immediate alerts or shutdowns. Product Manager Julian Budde emphasizes its versatility: “It not only protects pumps but also confirms whether a closed system is free of gas bubbles.”

Precision Flow Measurement for Accurate Dosing

The enhanced CombiFlow PF75 flow sensor enables precise volume measurement, eliminating the need for separate level monitoring in bottling processes. This innovation streamlines dosing tasks by delivering exact measurements quickly and reliably. Other solutions, like ultrasonic sensors (e.g., UR18), extend detection capabilities with a range up to 1,500 mm despite minimal blind zones.

Wear-Free Encoders for Conveyor Control

For precise conveyor control in filling and packaging operations, Baumer’s EB200E encoder stands out. Its wear-free design provides position and speed feedback via the IO-Link interface or direct parameterization as a speed monitor. Compact dimensions make it ideal for space-constrained installations while monitoring critical parameters like over-speed or direction changes.

Visit Baumer at drinktec 2022

Baumer’s innovative sensor solutions—from resource-saving CIP sensors to intelligent encoders—are designed to meet the evolving demands of beverage production. Stop by booth A3.300 in Hall A3 to explore these technologies and discover how they can optimize your operations.

Last Updated: 2025-09-04 22:43:06