Bypass

A Bypass Level Indicator operates on the principle of communicating vessels and is designed for continuous, non-contact measurement and indication of liquid levels in a tank or vessel.

Key Components:

1. Bypass Chamber: A vertical side-mounted tube installed parallel to the main tank. It is connected at both the top and bottom via flanged or threaded connections, allowing liquid to flow freely between the tank and the chamber.
2. Float with Magnet: A cylindrical float with a built-in permanent magnet moves up and down inside the bypass chamber, following the liquid level.
3. Magnetic Display: Mounted externally along the bypass chamber, this display (e.g., flip-dot or magnetic roller type) visually indicates the liquid level by responding to the magnetic field of the float.
4. Sensors/Transmitters (optional): Magnetic sensors or reed switches can be installed along the bypass chamber to provide electrical signals (analogue 4–20 mA or digital) for remote monitoring or process automation.

1. Rugged and Reliable Construction: Engineered with high-quality materials, the bypass level indicator is built to withstand demanding industrial environments, ensuring long-term performance and durability.
2. Low-Maintenance Mechanical Design: The mechanical operation requires minimal maintenance, reducing downtime and offering a cost-effective solution for continuous level monitoring.
3. Highly Visible Indicators: The magnetic display provides clear and accurate level indication that is easily visible from a distance, improving operational safety and efficiency.
4. Extended Measuring Range: Designed to accommodate large tanks and vessels, the system supports a wide measuring range for versatile applications.
5. High-Temperature Version Available: Specialized models are available for high-temperature environments, making them suitable for a broad range of process conditions.
6. Optional Level Switches: The system can be equipped with magnetic level switches for limit detection, alarms, or process control integration.
7. Suitable for Pressurized or Corrosive Liquids: Ideal for harsh applications, the indicator is compatible with pressurized systems and resistant to corrosive media, ensuring reliable performance across various industries.

For more information or assistance in selecting the right model for your application, feel free to contact us.

1. Standard Magnetic Bypass Level Indicators: This side-mounted magnetic bypass level indicators designed for accurate, continuous level monitoring in industrial environments. These units provide visual level indication through magnetic rollers or balls and can be optionally equipped with limit switches or analogue/digital transmitters (e.g., 4–20 mA, HART) for remote signal output. Constructed from durable materials such as stainless steel or titanium, they are highly suitable for high-pressure and high-temperature applications in industries like chemical processing, power generation, and petrochemicals. To know more, visit the product page of NBK-Series.
2. Top-Mounted Magnetic Level Indicator: A top-of-the-tank magnetic level gauge developed specifically for installations where side access is not possible, such as underground or embedded tanks. It supports measuring lengths up to 4m with a pressure rating of PN16 and operating temperature up to 120°C. This model is compatible with transmitters and switch modules, making it a reliable option for level measurement in hard-to-access or space-constrained environments. To learn more, visit the product page of NBK-04 series.
3. Mini Bypass Level Indicator: Designed for compact installations, that offers all the essential functionality of standard models in a smaller and cost-effective form factor. Despite its reduced size, it maintains high reliability, making it ideal for small tanks, laboratory setups, or equipment with space limitations where accurate level monitoring is still critical. For more information visit our Product page of NBK-M series.
4. Rope Version Bypass Level Indicator: This model employs a float and counterweight mechanism connected via a rope and pulley system, making it ideal for open or atmospheric tanks where traditional bypass tubes are unsuitable. This simple yet robust design provides dependable level monitoring in non-pressurized or irregular-shaped vessels, such as reservoirs or open sumps. For more information visit our product page of NBK-19 series.
5. Plastic Bypass Level Indicator: Constructed from corrosion-resistant plastic materials, the NBK-16 is designed for level monitoring in aggressive or chemically reactive media. It is an excellent choice for applications requiring excellent chemical resistance, making it ideal for wastewater treatment, chemical processing, and storage of corrosive fluids, while also offering a lightweight and economical alternative to metal-based models. For more information visit our product page of NBK-16 series.
6. Economical Bypass Level Indicator: It offers a cost-effective solution for basic level measurement tasks. Designed for users needing reliable yet simple operation, this model supports optional contact and transmitter outputs for added functionality. It is ideally suited for general-purpose use in applications such as water storage, utilities, and non-critical industrial tanks where advanced features are not essential. To know more, visit the product page of NBK-01 series.
7. Glass Tube Bypass Level Indicator: The Glass Tube Bypass level indicator features a transparent glass tube encased in a protective housing, enabling direct visual observation of liquid levels. This model is especially useful in industries where magnetic components are not desirable, such as food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and chemical processing. It can be installed on vertical or horizontal cylindrical tanks and provides a simple, maintenance-friendly solution for visual level indication. To know more, visit the product page of SZM series.
8. Reflex Level Gauge: The Reflex Level Gauge operates based on the principle of light reflection to distinguish between liquid and gas phases. Its specially grooved glass surface reflects light differently depending on whether it contacts a liquid or gas liquids appear dark, and gases appear bright—ensuring sharp contrast and easy readability. With its rugged design, high-pressure and high-temperature tolerance, and no need for external lighting, the Reflex Gauge is ideal for demanding applications like steam boilers, pressurized vessels, and industrial storage tanks.

Need Help Choosing the Right Level Indicator? Contact our engineering team for application-specific support today to discuss your application. We are here to help you make an informed and confident decision.

Magnetic bypass level indicators use a visual display mechanism to show liquid levels through magnetic coupling with an internal float. The two common types of magnetic displays are roller displays and ball displays, each designed for specific operating conditions.

1. Roller Displays: These feature cylindrical rollers that flip 180° as the float moves, providing a sharp and continuous linear indication of the liquid level. They are ideal for applications requiring clear, precise visibility, such as long tanks or outdoor installations. Roller displays are available in standard and high-temperature-resistant versions, making them well-suited for industrial environments.
2. Ball Displays: Ball displays use spherical magnetic elements that rotate to indicate the liquid level, often providing a dot-like visual instead of a continuous line. They typically offer a wider viewing angle (up to 180°), improving visibility from different perspectives. Ball displays are particularly effective in environments subject to vibration or where space constraints limit installation options. Some versions are internally filled to reduce vibration sensitivity and improve readability.

When to Choose which Display  

1. Opt for roller displays when you need a sharp, clear linear indication, especially for outdoor or high-temperature industrial tanks. Roller displays are generally more economical.
2. Choose ball displays for installations with limited space, high vibration, or where a wide viewing angle is advantageous. Ball displays are considered a high-end version and are typically more expensive.

Bypass level indicators can be equipped with different sensor and transmitter options depending on the application needs. These options affect how the liquid level is measured and how that information is sent to a control system or display.

Common construction materials include stainless steel, plastic (PVC or PVDF), or special alloys, depending on the nature of the liquid and the environmental conditions like temperature, pressure, and corrosiveness.

Yes, they are specifically designed to handle pressurized systems. The bypass chamber and all sealing components are engineered to withstand the tank’s internal pressure safely.

Bypass level indicators are designed to suit a wide range of industrial applications and are available in various configurations to match specific process conditions. Typical specifications include:

1. Measuring Length: Ranges up to 5.5 meters. For longer measuring lengths, multipart design may be delivered, also reducing transportation cost.
2. Pressure Rating: Models are available with pressure limits up to PN320 / 300 lbs, depending on the design.
3. Temperature Range: Suitable for process temperatures up to 400°C, based on construction and material selection.
4. Viscosity Handling: Can handle liquids with viscosity up to 200 cSt , depending on model type.
5. Installation Flexibility: Installation lengths can vary upto 5.5m, supporting various tank or vessel dimensions.

For more information, please contact our engineering team for application-specific support

The standard bypass level indicators with roller displays operate purely mechanically and do not require any power supply. This makes them highly reliable for continuous level indication even in environments where power access is limited or unavailable. However, for applications requiring electronic output or remote monitoring, optional electronic displays and transmitters are available. These can provide additional functionalities such as analogue signal transmission, digital communication, and alarm settings. For detailed options, refer to the KOBOLD NBK series and the associated order code configurations.

Yes, many of our bypass level indicators are suitable for hazardous environments and are available with ATEX certification for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. However, not all models are certified by default. When installing in areas with explosion risks or flammable media, it’s important to confirm that the selected model carries the required ATEX or other relevant approvals. Always verify ATEX classification before installation in explosive atmospheres. Please contact our team to ensure you choose the right certified version for your specific application.