Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about Dynatrol® products, applications, or selecting an industrial measurement system? Get answers to common questions about our level, density, and viscosity measurement solutions and about working with Dynatrol.

About Dynatrol

What does Dynatrol® manufacture?

Dynatrol® manufactures industrial point level sensors and control systems, inline density measurement systems and viscosity measurement systems for process applications across chemical, petroleum, food processing, mining, manufacturing, and other industries.

Dynatrol® level sensor and control systems have been designed and manufactured in Houston, Texas, USA since 1956.

Dynatrol® equipment is used in chemical processing, petroleum and refining, food and beverage, feed and grain, mining, pulp and paper, power generation, steel, rubber and other process industries.

No. In addition to industrial point level measurement systems, Dynatrol® manufactures inline density and viscosity measurement systems for process liquids and slurries.

Why Dynatrol® Technology?

Why does Dynatrol’s vibrating level sensor work better in difficult materials?

Dynatrol’s coil‑and‑magnet vibrating technology produces a strong, continuous mechanical signal that isn’t affected by product density, dielectric constant, moisture content, or conductivity. This allows reliable detection in powders, pellets, liquids, slurries, and aerated or low‑density materials where other sensors struggle.

Piezo‑driven forks generate lower force and can damp out in light materials or become unreliable when coated or deteriorates with fluctuating temperatures over time. Dynatrol’s mechanically driven vibration maintains amplitude under load, resists buildup, and performs consistently in both light and heavy solids.

Rotary paddles depend on torque resistance and can stall in low‑density materials or wear over time due to moving parts. Dynatrol® has no rotating components, no wear surfaces, and no density limitations, making it suitable for long‑term service in demanding environments.

Capacitance and RF sensors are influenced by dielectric changes, moisture variation, and product buildup. Dynatrol’s vibrating technology is purely mechanical, eliminating sensitivity to electrical properties and reducing false trips caused by coatings.

Ultrasonic and optical devices can be blocked by dust, foam, condensation, or heavy coatings. Dynatrol’s vibrating element continues to operate even when partially coated, and its mechanical motion naturally sheds material.

The sensor’s rugged coil‑and‑magnet drive delivers stable vibration across wide temperature ranges, high‑stress installations, and fluctuating process conditions. This makes it dependable in real‑world industrial environments where dust, turbulence, and product variability are common.

Choosing a Dynatrol Measurement System

How do I know which Dynatrol® measurement technology I need?

Here’s what you will need to know:

  • Point level sensors detect whether material has reached a defined location.
  • Density and viscosity systems continuously measure properties of process materials at operating conditions.

For help selecting the right technology, contact us today to discuss your measurement objective and application.

Provide the material being measured, required measurement, operating temperature and pressure, vessel or piping configuration, process connection and relevant environmental conditions. For level applications, also identify whether you need high-, intermediate-, low- or interface detection.

Yes. Our sensors are built for applications ranging from lightweight powders and materials that pack or bridge to abrasive bulk solids, liquids, slurries, and corrosive process media.

Our products can operate under hazardous-location ratings, but suitability depends on the specific product, configuration, and required classification. Confirm the applicable hazardous-area requirements with our engineering team before ordering your equipment.

Installation, Operation & Service Life

Does Dynatrol® equipment require frequent maintenance?

Our products are designed for industrial applications where long-term reliability and low maintenance are important. Maintenance requirements vary by product and process, so make sure to contact us for more details.

Service life depends on the application, process conditions, and installation. Yet, our sensors have been known to maintain accuracy in the field without service for more than 40 years.

Calibration requirements depend on the measurement system. Our density systems are pre-programmed for simple calibration, while point level products operate differently and should follow their applicable product instructions. Contact us today for more calibration details.

Yes, depending on the product. For example, our point level switches can provide contact closure for alarms, indicators, or control-system inputs, while certain density systems provide analog measurement outputs for integration.

Existing Systems & Replacement Equipment

I already have a Dynatrol® system. How do I identify the correct replacement product?

Start with the model numbers and identifying information on the existing sensor, control unit or converter. Photos of the installed equipment and information about the process application can also help our team determine the appropriate replacement or compatible component.

Our systems use separate sensing, electronic and supporting components, so some components can be addressed individually. Compatibility should always be verified with our team against the existing model and system configuration before ordering a replacement.

Contact us with your model information and, when possible, photographs of the existing equipment. Because your Dynatrol® equipment was manufactured years ago, identifying the originally installed configuration is the best starting point before selecting replacement equipment.

Products & Applications

Where can I find technical specifications for a Dynatrol® product?

Detailed specifications should be reviewed on the individual product page and applicable product documentation. If your process conditions are outside the listed specifications or you’re unsure which configuration applies, contact us before ordering.

Visit our Applications page to explore how we’ve used measurement across different industries, materials, and processes.

The applications on our website are examples rather than an exhaustive list. To confirm whether your application is covered, contact Dynatrol® with your material, process conditions, and measurement objective.

Since 1956 Dynatrol

Contact Us

Contact us today to discuss how Dynatrol® can help you tackle your specific application needs.