What Is Capacitance Liquid Level Sensor & How Dose It Work?

What is a capacitive liquid level sensors?

Capacitive liquid level sensor is an instrument for continuous measurement of liquids and converting it to an electrical signal.

Capacitive liquid level sensors play a pivotal role in obtaining precise, continuous measurements of liquids within containers. Being versatile enough to work seamlessly with fuels, oils, water, and coolant fluids. At its core, this sensor gauges the liquid’s height and transforms that data into an electrical signal. This valuable signal can then interface with various instruments, enabling users to visualize, monitor, record, or manage the liquid’s level.

How does a capacitive liquid level sensor work?

Capacitive liquid level sensor with good structure and installation method can be applied to high temperature, high pressure, strong corrosion, easy to crystallize, anti-clogging, anti-freezing, and solid powder and granular materials.

Sino-Inst’s capacitive liquid level sensor can measure the liquid level of a highly corrosive medium. It measures the liquid level of a high-temperature medium. It measures the liquid level of sealed containers. It has nothing to do with the viscosity, density, and working pressure of the medium.

Features of capacitive liquid level sensors

  • The structure is simple, without any movable or elastic components. Therefore, the reliability is extremely high and maintenance is minimal. Under normal circumstances, it is not necessary to carry out regular large, medium and small maintenance.
  • Various signal output. Facilitate the configuration of different systems.
  • Suitable for liquid level measurement of high temperature and high-pressure vessels. And the measured value is not affected by the temperature, specific gravity of the liquid being measured and the shape and pressure of the container.
  • It is especially suitable for the measurement of strong corrosive liquids such as acids and alkalis.
  • Perfect over-current, over-voltage, and power polarity protection.

Extended reading: Radar Non Contact Water Level Sensor

Capacitive liquid level sensors types

Extended Reading: How to Measure Volume of Liquid

How does a capacitive liquid level sensor work?

Define capacitor

What is a Capacitor?

A capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores and releases electrical energy. In its most basic form, a capacitor consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material known as a dielectric.

When voltage is applied to the plates, an electric field forms, causing positive and negative charges to accumulate on the plates.

This stored energy can later be discharged when needed. The capability of a capacitor to store energy is measured in Farads (F) and is referred to as its capacitance.

Connection Between a Capacitor and a Capacitive Liquid Level Sensor:

The principle behind a Capacitive Liquid Level Sensor is intrinsically tied to the concept of capacitance. Here’s how they relate:

Formation of a Capacitor:

In the context of a capacitive liquid level sensor, the probe (or immersed electrode) acts as one plate of the capacitor, and the opposing electrode (often the container or tank wall) serves as the other plate.

Role of the Liquid (Dielectric):

The liquid whose level is being measured acts as the dielectric medium in this capacitor setup. Different liquids have different dielectric constants, which can affect the capacitance.

Changing Capacitance:

As the level of the liquid changes, the portion of the probe submerged in the liquid varies. This changes the effective dielectric between the capacitor plates, leading to a change in capacitance. This variation in capacitance is directly proportional to the level of the liquid.

Measurement Principle:

The electronics in the sensor detect these changes in capacitance. By monitoring these changes, the sensor can determine the liquid’s level and convert it into a readable signal.

While a capacitor is a foundational component in electronics for energy storage, the principle of capacitance is what allows a Capacitive Liquid Level Sensor to function. The sensor effectively creates a dynamic capacitor whose properties change based on the liquid’s level, making it an ingenious application of basic electronic principles to real-world measurement challenges.

Capacitive liquid level sensor working principle

The Capacitive liquid level sensor is used to measure the change of capacitance to measure the level of the liquid level. The capacitive liquid level sensor is used to measure the change of capacitance to measure the unevenness of the liquid level.

The capacitive liquid level sensor is a metal rod pierced into the liquid container. The metal rod serves as a pole of the capacitor. The container wall serves as the other pole of the capacitor. The medium between the two electrodes is the liquid and the gas above it.

Because the dielectric constant ε1 of the liquid is different from the dielectric constant ε2 on the liquid surface. For example ε1>ε2.
Then when the liquid level rises, the total dielectric constant between the two electrodes of the capacitive liquid level gauge increases accordingly, so the capacitance increases.
Conversely, when the liquid level drops, the value of ε decreases and the capacitance also decreases.

Therefore, the Capacitive liquid level sensor can measure the unevenness of the liquid level by changing the capacitance between the two electrodes. The sensitivity of the Capacitive liquid level sensor mainly depends on the difference between the two dielectric constants.

Moreover, as long as ε1 and ε2 are stable, the liquid level measurement is accurate. Because the measured medium has conductivity. Therefore, the metal rod electrode is covered by an insulating layer.

The capacitive liquid level sensor is small in size, simple to complete remote transmission and scheduling, suitable for liquid level measurement of corrosive and high-pressure media.

Extended Reading: GWR Level Sensor for High Temperature & High Pressure

Let’s watch a video. It will help you understand the working principle of the capacitive liquid level sensor.

Video source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0du-QU1Q0T4

Extended reading: Non-Contact Level Measurement

Advantages of Capacitance Level Sensors:

  • Versatility: These sensors perform well with various dielectric fluids, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
  • Durability: Their robust design, often using stainless steel, means they are resistant to most fluids and harsh conditions. This ensures a long service life.
  • No Moving Parts: Their absence of moving components ensures they require minimal maintenance, which is particularly advantageous in challenging environments.
  • High-Temperature Compatibility: Since they don’t have sensitive components submerged in the liquid, they can operate in hotter fluids where some other sensors might struggle.
  • Sealed System Compatibility: Their design allows them to function efficiently in sealed pressurized or evacuated vessels without any significant impact on performance.
  • Simplicity: With a straightforward mechanical structure, they are less prone to mechanical breakdowns.

Disadvantages of Capacitance Level Sensors:

  • Conductive Fluid Limitation: These sensors might face challenges with conductive fluids unless they come with an insulated outer tube.
  • Coating Issues: Thick or sticky media might coat the probe, creating an insulation layer that can lead to malfunctions or compromised performance.
  • Calibration Necessity: They require calibration to distinguish the difference between liquid and air accurately. This might need occasional recalibration based on the medium.
  • Dielectric Constant Sensitivity: Changes in the medium that cause the dielectric constant to shift can impact the sensor’s performance.
  • Possible Obstruction: The probe might protrude into the liquid, causing obstruction, attracting fouling, or even raising hygiene concerns in certain applications.

Capacitive level sensor Applications

The capacitive liquid level sensor is used to measure the liquid level (level) of conductive and non-conductive liquids (solids) under pressure in pressure vessels.

A capacitive liquid level sensor can convert the changes of various liquid level parameters into standard current signals. Remote transmission to the operating room. For the secondary instrument or computer device for centralized display, start emergency signal or automatic control.

Combine the user’s specific process conditions, equipment structure, and use requirements. Through the flexible combination of the material, structure, and installation method of the level gauge. It is suitable for continuous detection of liquid level, material level or material level under special conditions such as high pressure, high temperature, strong corrosion, easy crystallization, anti-blocking, anti-freezing, and solid powder and granular materials. It can be widely used in detection and control in various industrial processes.

Capacitive level sensor application:

  • Conductive, insulating liquid-chemical industry, oil field, water and sewage treatment
  • Conductive and insulating slurry-papermaking, pharmaceutical, water and sewage treatment
  • Powder, ash, powder-power plant, metallurgy, cement
  • Pellets, coal, grain-power plants, metallurgy, grain
  • Interface, two different liquids-oil field, chemical industry

Extended reading: Radar Liquid Level Sensor|Corrosive, steam, volatile liquids

Extended reading: Radar Water Level Sensor Applications

Capacitive oil level sensor

The capacitive fuel level sensor refers to a capacitive liquid level transmitter used to measure the oil level. According to the principle of capacitance sensing, when the height of the measured electrode dips and changes, the capacitance of the measured electrode changes. It can convert the change of oil level into a standard current signal. It is remotely transmitted to the operation control room for the secondary instrument or computer device for centralized display, alarm, or automatic control.

Read more about Capacitive Fuel Level Sensor

Extended Reading: Low Cost Float Level Sensor for Tank Liquid Volume Monitoring

Capacitive sensor for water level measurement

A capacitive water level sensor is often used to measure the water level of the water storage tank. The capacitive water level sensor uses the change of measuring capacitance value to measure the height of the liquid level. The main function is to continuously measure the liquid level of the measured medium liquid. For example, common media are sewage, mud, paper pulp, eight-treasure porridge, and so on. You may also have heard of a non-contact capacitive water level sensor. It is a kind of capacitive water level sensor installed externally.

Read More about Contact and Non-contact | Capacitive water level sensor

Read more about: Hydrostatic Submersible Level Transmitter-Straight Rod Insertion

Capacitive level switch

The principle of a Capacitive level switch is a position sensor with switch output.

The capacitive level switch is composed of an electronic circuit module unit and sensor rod. The induction pole and the barrel wall are used as the two electrodes of the capacitor.

When the material between the two electrodes changes, the capacitance value changes. After the electronic circuit unit detects this capacitance value change. The analysis and processing unit are compared with the set capacitance value. When it is higher than the set value, a switch signal is an output.

It is widely used for position detection in various high temperature, high pressure, strong acid and strong alkali, and various powder and particle environments in petroleum, chemical, metallurgical, light industry, coal, cement, grain, and other industries.

Extended reading: Diesel fuel tank level gauges & indicators

Extended Reading: What is level transmitter working principle?

Extended reading: Ultrasonic liquid level sensors

More Featured Level Senors

Extended reading: Ultrasonic level transmitter for Hazardous Liquids

Related Blog

Extended reading: Corrosive Liquid Chemical Level Sensor in Chemical Processing

Sino-Inst offers over 10 Capacitive Level Sensors for level measurement. About 50% of these are RF level meters, 40% is the tank level sensor.

A wide variety of Capacitive Level Sensors are available to you, such as free samples, paid samples.

Sino-Inst is a globally recognized supplier and manufacturer of Capacitive Level measurement instrumentation, located in China.

Request a Quote

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Contact and Non-contact | Capacitive water level sensor

A capacitive water level sensor is often used to measure the water level of the water storage tank. The capacitive water level sensor uses the change of measuring capacitance value to measure the height of the liquid level. The main function is to continuously measure the liquid level of the measured medium liquid. For example, common media are sewage, mud, paper pulp, eight-treasure porridge, and so on. You may also have heard of a non contact capacitive water level sensor. It is a kind of capacitive water level sensor installed externally.

What is a capacitive liquid level sensor?

The Capacitive liquid level sensor is based on the principle of capacitance sensing. When the height of the measured electrode is changed by the measured medium, it will cause its capacitance to change. It can convert the changes of various material levels and the height of liquid level media into standard current signals, which are remotely transmitted to the operation control room for centralized display, alarm or automatic control by secondary instruments or computer devices.

Capacitive liquid level sensor has a good structure and installation method, which can be applied to high temperature, high pressure, strong corrosion, easy to crystallize, anti-clogging. Anti-freezing and solid powdery and granular materials.

The Capacitive liquid level sensor fundamentally deals with the influence of factors such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and material conductivity on the measurement process. Therefore, it has extremely high anti-interference and reliability. It can measure strong corrosive liquids, such as acid, alkali, salt, sewage, etc.

Can measure high temperature and high pressure medium. Process temperature -40~600℃. Process pressure -0.1~4.0MPa.

A single intelligent integrated capacitance level gauge has common two-point on-site calibration skills, which provides convenience for users to easily use the product.

Capacitive liquid level sensor can measure the liquid level of strongly corrosive medium, measure the liquid level of high temperature medium, measure the liquid level of sealed container. It has nothing to do with the viscosity, density and working pressure of the medium.

Extended reading: Ultrasonic liquid level sensors

Capacitive water level sensor

Can capacitive liquid level sensors measure water?

OK. Because water is conductive. Except for pure water, ultra-pure water, industrial water has no special instructions, it is generally regarded as a conductor.

Capacitive water level sensor is when measuring water. The water contains rust, jelly, etc. Will it cause measurement fluctuations?

probably not. When measuring water, there are two plates: one is the metal rod of the capacitor itself. And the other is actually water. Because general water is conductive. The dielectric is actually the film on the outside of the Capacitive water level sensor metal.

  1. When the tank is a conductor: because water is conductive. Except for pure water, ultrapure water, industrial water without special instructions is generally regarded as a conductor. So it forms the other plate of the capacitor. When the metal tank is used to measure the conductor level with a capacitor, the dielectric is the layer of PTFE.
  2. If the tank body and process connection are non-conductive materials. Then, a conductor should be led down from the ground terminal of the meter casing along the outside of the tank as another plate. The dielectric at this time is membrane + medium + tank wall.

Non contact capacitive water level sensor

Non contact capacitive water level sensor, you only need to attach the sensor to the outer wall of the container made of insulating material when using it.

When the liquid level reaches the sensor detection position, there is a level signal output. It is easy to install and use, no need to open holes, and durable life. Capacitive type can detect the liquid level through the medium. No direct contact with liquid is required. It will not be affected by corrosive effects such as strong acids and alkalis, and it is more hygienic.

Extended reading: Radar Non Contact Water Level Sensor

Features of Non contact capacitive water level sensor:

  1. Small size and high cost performance. Waterproof grade IP62. Ultra low standby function
  2. The liquid level can be detected through the medium without direct contact with the liquid. It will not be affected by corrosive effects such as strong acids and alkalis, and it is more hygienic.
  3. No need to open holes without mechanical parts inside. Only need to be installed on the outer wall of the container to achieve non-contact use
  4. Integrated filtering, debounce, and A/D conversion circuit. Directly output high and low levels.
  5. Accuracy, high reliability, no virtual area, no gray sensing area
  6. Meet the requirements of safety standards
  7. Comply with RoHS requirements
  8. The sensitivity can be matched according to the customer’s application

Non contact capacitive water level sensor application:
It can be used to detect water purification, sewage, oil, wine, various acid-alkaline liquid levels, etc. Mainly suitable for household appliances, medical equipment, chemical equipment, business machines, etc. Your equipment needs level control. Our products will meet your liquid level measurement needs.

Extended reading: Ultrasonic level transmitter for Hazardous Liquids

Compared with non contact capacitive water level sensor and float type liquid level sensor:

  1. It can be used when installed on the outer wall of the container, and the container does not need to be opened. The water level can be detected non-contact.
  2. Small size, small space required for installation
  3. The float type liquid level sensor needs to be in contact with the liquid to detect the liquid level. The internal magnet will adsorb impurities in the water to form scale. Scale will cause the weight of the float to increase and affect the accuracy of liquid level detection. The Non contact capacitive water level sensor does not directly contact the liquid, and there is no such restriction.
  4. The float type liquid level sensor uses the rise and fall of the liquid level to drive the movement of the float with a magnet. So that the internal dry reed switch is turned on and off. Therefore, the float type liquid level sensor has a certain draft, the float is easy to jam, and the reliability is low. The Non contact capacitive water level sensor has no mechanical moving parts and has high reliability.

SI-U01 Float Level Sensor
SI-U02 Multi-Point Liquid Level Float Switch
SI-U03 Float Switch Water Level Controller
SI-U04 Magnetic Float Level Sensor-Reed Switch
SI-U05 Cable Float Level Sensor & Swtich

Frequently
Asked
Questions

  1. Under stable working conditions, due to structural limitations, the compensation problem of system measurement errors caused by the adiabatic temperature of the water side cannot be completely solved. Under accident conditions such as boiler shortage or full water, excessive system measurement errors may bring serious consequences
  2. The structure is complex, and there are many static sealing points. The scale of construction is large and there are problems of heat preservation in winter.
  3. The measurement time lag is long, and the boiler water level change cannot be reflected immediately. The quality of the measurement signal adjustment is poor.
  4. Due to the exothermic heat of the condensing cylinder, the use cost is extremely high.

Extended reading: Amazing Solutions for Continuous Liquid Level Measurement

The capacitance level switch determines whether there is liquid by detecting the conductivity or insulation rate of the medium. It can be simply understood as judging whether the liquid has reached a fixed water level according to the size of the capacitance value. The capacitor is formed between the liquid level switch and the medium in which it is located. When liquid is detected, the capacitance value changes greatly.

Extended reading: Radar Level Sensor Working Principle

More Water level sensors

Water depth sensors are also known as water level sensors. Water depth sensors are often used to measure tank levels, well depths, river depths, etc. There are many different types of water depth sensors. All of them are used to measure the water level by submerging underwater or above the water surface. Then, they are converted into a water depth or water level signal. For example, submersible hydrostatic level meter, ultrasonic level meter, etc.

Extended reading: Non contact level measurement

Sino-Inst offers over 20 Capacitive water level sensors for level measurement.

About 50% of these are liquid level meters, 40% is the tank level sensor.

A wide variety of Capacitive water level sensors options are available to you, such as free samples, paid samples.

Sino-Inst is a globally recognized supplier and manufacturer of level measurement instrumentation, located in China.

Request a Quote

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form

Capacitive Fuel Level Sensor

The capacitive fuel level sensor refers to a capacitive liquid level transmitter used to measure the oil level. According to the principle of capacitance sensing, when the height of the measured electrode dips and changes, the capacitance of the measured electrode changes. It can convert the change of oil level into a standard current signal. It is remotely transmitted to the operation control room for the secondary instrument or computer device for centralized display, alarm, or automatic control.

What is a capacitive liquid level sensor?

The Capacitive liquid level sensor is based on the principle of capacitance sensing. When the height of the measuring electrode changes by the measured medium, the capacitance changes. It can convert the changes of various material levels and the height of liquid level media into standard current signals, which are remotely transmitted to the operation control room for centralized display, alarm or automatic control by secondary instruments or computer devices. Its good structure and installation method can be applied to high temperature, high pressure, strong corrosion, easy crystallization, anti-blocking, anti-freezing, and solid powder and granular materials.

Capacitive liquid level gauges fundamentally deal with the influence of temperature, humidity, pressure, conductivity of materials and other factors on the measurement process. Therefore, it has extremely high anti-interference and reliability. It can measure strong corrosive liquids, such as acid, alkali, salt, sewage, etc. It can measure high temperature and high pressure medium; process temperature -40~600℃; process pressure -0.1~4.0MPa. A single intelligent integrated capacitive liquid level sensor has two common on-site calibration skills, which provides convenience for users to easily use the product.

Sino-Inst’s capacitive liquid level sensor can measure the liquid level of highly corrosive media and the liquid level of high-temperature media. Measuring the liquid level of a sealed container has nothing to do with the viscosity, density, and working pressure of the medium.

Extended reading: Capacitive water level sensor

Extended reading: Oil-water interface measurement-Magtech magnetic level indicator

Capacitive fuel level sensor working principle

Capacitive fuel level sensor is used to measure the change of capacitance to measure the level of the liquid level.

Capacitive fuel level sensor is used to measure the change of capacitance to measure the unevenness of the liquid level. It is a metal rod pierced into the liquid container. The metal rod serves as a pole of the capacitor. The container wall serves as the other pole of the capacitor. The medium between the two electrodes is the liquid and the gas above it.

Because the dielectric constant ε1 of the liquid is different from the dielectric constant ε2 on the liquid surface. For example: ε1>ε2.

Then when the liquid level rises, the total dielectric constant between the two electrodes of the capacitive liquid level gauge increases accordingly, so the capacitance increases.

Conversely, when the liquid level drops, the value of ε decreases, and the capacitance also decreases.

Therefore, the Capacitive fuel level sensor can measure the unevenness of the liquid level by changing the capacitance between the two electrodes.

The sensitivity of the Capacitive fuel level sensor mainly depends on the difference between the two dielectric constants. Moreover, as long as ε1 and ε2 are stable, the liquid level measurement is accurate. Because the measured medium has conductivity. Therefore, the metal rod electrode is covered by an insulating layer. Capacitive fuel level sensor is small in size, and it can easily complete remote transmission and dispatching. Suitable for liquid level measurement of corrosive and high-pressure media.

Extended reading: Oil Level Measurement Solutions for the Oil & Gas Industry

Capacitance level sensor advantages and disadvantages

  1. Simple structure. There are no movable elastic parts. Therefore, the reliability is relatively high and maintenance is minimal. Under normal circumstances, it is not necessary to carry out regular major, medium and minor repairs.
  2. Easy to install. The built-in structure especially shows this characteristic. One person, one wrench. It can be installed in ten minutes.
  3. Easy to adjust. The two potentiometers of zero position and range can perform zero shift or range compression or expansion at will within the effective range of liquid level detection.
  4. Liquid level detection is basically not affected by changes in process conditions. The buoyancy, differential pressure, and isotope level gauges are all related to the gravity of the medium in the detection. Severe changes in the gas-liquid phase medium will cause additional errors in the test results.
  5. Wide application range. Aiming at the specific characteristics of the detected object. Specially customized. It can be adapted to liquid level detection under a variety of harsh conditions.
  6. Low operating cost, no additional impact, no vulnerable, consumable parts, and no additional issues such as depreciation costs for radioactive sources, disposal costs for waste sources, and radiation protection compared with isotope level gauges.
  7. Lightweight. A high-pressure liquid level gauge that works at 32MPa at the same time weighs less than two kilograms. It is a few tenths of the weight of the high-pressure float level gauge.

Extended Reading: GWR Level Sensor for High Temperature & High Pressure

  1. This level is not suitable for the detection of highly viscous media, such as molten asphalt.
  2. The stainless steel process connection part at the lower part of the housing or junction box. It must be reliably connected to the outer wall of the container (grounded). Its contact resistance cannot be greater than 2.
  3. In normal operation, the probe line cannot have a large swing amplitude in the container. Otherwise, the signal will be unstable.

Extended reading: Diesel fuel tank level gauges & indicators

Capacitive fuel tank level sensor Applications

This series of level gauges have been successfully used in the following occasions:

  • Chemical plant: detect the liquid level of chemical raw materials such as polyester, spandex, acid, alkali, etc.
  • Environmental protection: detection of sewage level
  • Boiler factory: detect the level of the medium in the pressure vessel
  • Hydraulic machinery: detection of lubricating oil level
  • Food department: check the level of edible oil
  • Oilfield: Detect the level of refined oil

Learn more about Diesel fuel tank level gauges & Indicators

Cryogenic Level Sensor for Liquid Nitrogen Tank Level Indicator

The Cryogenic Level Sensor is a capacitance-based level transmitter for cryogenic liquid level measurement. Cryogenic Level Sensor is a customized product for liquid level measurement in low temperature environments such as liquid nitrogen, LNG, and liquid ammonia. Also called liquid nitrogen level sensor. This product has no moving parts and is not disturbed by the external environment. It has the advantages of long-term operation, high sensitivity, good linearity, low temperature resistance, etc. The cryogenic level sensor provides a variety of output signals. It is used in LNG liquid natural gas, petroleum, chemical industry, metallurgy, electric power, papermaking, pharmaceutical and other fields.

Extended reading: liquid nitrogen level measurement

More Featured Fuel Level Sensors

More liquid level measurement solutions

Laser Level Transmitter

What is a laser level transmitter? A laser level transmitter is also called a laser level…

Extended reading: Radar Oil Tank Level Sensor

Sino-Inst is Manufacturer of Capacitive Fuel Level Sensors for oil/fuel/diesel Tank Level Indicator. We supply more than 10 kinds of fuel level measure instruments.

Capacitive Fuel Level Sensors are mainly used for level measurement of Industrial Oil Storage Tanks.
It can measure even for accurate measurement of oil level in car fuel tanks, tankers, oil depots, etc.

Capacitive Fuel Level Sensors enable stable level measurement. This greatly meets the measurement needs of many applications. Can be used from small to large tanks.

Extended reading: ultrasonic level sensor for diesel tank

Sino-Inst’s Capacitive Fuel Level Sensors, made in China, Having good Quality, With better price. Our level measurement instruments are widely used in China, India, Pakistan, the US, and other countries.

The entire team at Sino-Inst’s has received excellent training, so we can ensure that every client’s needs are met. For assistance with your product requirements, whether it’s a Capacitive Fuel Level Sensors, flow sensor, or other device, give us a call.

Sulfuric Acid Storage Tank Level Measurement-Radar Level Sensor

Sulfuric acid storage tanks are mainly used to store sulfuric acid produced in acid production. The accuracy of the liquid level of the sulfuric acid storage tank is directly related to the continuity of production. Because the sulfuric acid storage tank stores 98% concentrated sulfuric acid. There will be Part of the acid mist will have a certain impact on the liquid level detection.

Because of the anti-corrosion and anti-disturbance problems, the traditional detection instruments are not suitable for detection. Only the radar liquid level sensor can achieve a relatively high measurement accuracy. It has the characteristics of high continuous measurement accuracy, non-contact type, large measurement range, and good anti-corrosion performance.

Radar Level Measurement and guide wave radar level measurement Image source: https://instrumentationtools.com/radar-level-measurement/

Very short microwave pulses with very low energy are transmitted and received through the antenna system. The radar wave runs at the speed of light. The operating time can be converted into level signals by electronic components. A special time extension method can ensure stable and accurate measurement in a very short time.

Electromagnetic waves propagate in the air at the speed of light. The distance between the radar level sensor and the surface of the material can be expressed by the following formula:   

D = (1/2)*CT

In the formula:

D ———the distance between the radar level sensor and the surface of the material;   

C ———Speed of light   

T ———Pulse time.

Then the liquid level is:   L = E-D

In the formula:

L — liquid level;   

E ———The total height of the tank;   

D ———Air height.

Even in the presence of false reflections, the new micro-processing technology, and the unique ECHOFOX- software can accurately analyze the level echo. By inputting the size of the container, the distance value can be converted into a signal proportional to the level. The instrument can be debugged with empty positions.

Extended reading: FMCW Radar Level Transmitter 120GHz

  • The radar level sensor adopts an integrated design and has no moving parts. There is no mechanical wear and long service life;
  • The electromagnetic wave emitted by the radar liquid level sensor does not need a transmission medium. Not affected by the atmosphere, steam, and volatilized fog in the tank;
  • Not affected by the density and concentration of the liquid in the tank;
  • Can be used for high temperature and high-pressure liquid level measurement;
  • Strong corrosion resistance and can adapt to highly corrosive environments;
  • It has the function of false echo suppression. Suppress the false echo signal from the liquid surface to the antenna through false echo. Eliminate the interference of false echoes;
  • The radar liquid level sensor has no measurement blind zone, and the accuracy can be very high.

Extended reading: Radar Level Sensor Advantages and Disadvantages

Extended reading: Non contact level measurement

Sulfuric acid storage tank level measurement

We have provided customers with radar level transmitters for level measurement in sulfuric acid tanks.

The diesel-sulfuric acid storage tank is a vertical storage tank. Because there is a large amount of volatile gas in the tank. Therefore, the equipment is required to be explosion-proof without being affected by the gas. Based on the internal structural characteristics of the pyrosulfuric acid storage tank and the characteristics of the storage medium. Our company chose a non-contact intelligent radar level transmitter to measure the level of the medium.

There are 6 sulfuric acid storage tanks, and the tanks can be connected. To ensure the accuracy and safety of the measurement. Radar level transmitters are installed on the 6 tanks respectively, which are on standby for each other. And under normal circumstances, the accuracy of the two liquid level measurement values ​​can be compared by reference.

When installing the radar wave level transmitter, the inclined installation method was first adopted. Its inclination angle does not exceed 15°.

Extended reading: Diesel Tank Level Monitoring System

When debugging the level gauge, it is found that there is no level data display. Analyze the cause of the failure because the emitted radar wave is reflected back on the steel plate of the tank. The main reason is that the false echo interference is too large. After re-adjusting the installation angle of the radar level transmitter, it was found that level data appeared. However, the data fluctuates greatly, and due to analysis reasons may be due to liquid level fluctuations.
Radar wave reflections cause effects.

For this reason, it was decided to install a reflector in the measuring tube in the tank. Readjust the installation of the radar level transmitter. Make the plane of the transmitting antenna of the radar wave parallel to the reflector. The level data measured in this way is more accurate.

Calculation of the area of ​​the reflector:
Adopt an intelligent radar liquid level transmitter. Its antenna size parameter DN80/3″
Beam angle a=10°,
According to the formula Tan5°=W/2D,
It can be calculated that W=900mm,
Furthermore, the area of ​​the reflector is obtained.

Therefore, we can make a disc with a diameter of not less than 900mm.

Extended Reading: Silo/Bin material level measurement system

Connect the signal wire on the wiring terminal of the radar level transmitter to the safety barrier. That is, first pass the safety barrier and then connect to the I/0 card of the DCS and the SIS system. And complete the software configuration and the parameter setting of the radar level transmitter.

The change of the medium level of the storage tank can be monitored in real-time through the DCS system. And to realize the remote control of the storage tank level and the monitoring of real-time/historical data.

Extended reading: Radar Liquid Level Sensor|Corrosive, steam, volatile liquids

Extended reading: Diesel fuel tank level gauges & indicators

We generally encounter liquid level measurement in chemical plants such as petroleum storage tanks, chemical storage tanks, chemical storage tanks, sewage treatment plants, dosing tanks, seasides, and docks. Used to measure corrosive media such as sulfuric acid, nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid, sodium hydroxide, and concentrated alkali.

When encountering these corrosive media, we generally choose corrosive ultrasonic level sensors and use non-contact radar level sensors to measure corrosive liquids such as sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and nitric acid. Below we introduce, we have to consider two major principles in the selection of level sensor measurement.

The first principle: the principle of non-contact measurement needs to be considered. Choose a non-contact level sensor.

Because the probe of the level sensor does not need to touch the medium. The principle of the sensing band is used to obtain the current liquid level information. For example, when the radar level sensor measures the level, it does not touch the measured medium. The selected material is tetrafluoroethylene. At the same time, it is a fully enclosed anti-corrosion structure. Therefore, the effect is very good for the liquid level measurement of viscous, corrosive, turbid, and other liquids.

Extended Reading: GWR Level Sensor for High Temperature & High Pressure

The second principle: to consider the convenience of on-site installation.

Due to the uniqueness of the measurement of corrosive liquids such as sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and nitric acid. It needs to be easily installed on-site. It needs to be simple to open a hole in the jar.

Therefore, in the selection process of the level sensor, it is necessary to consider the characteristics of reliable work, easy installation, long service life, and maintenance-free.

The third principle: sensor selection.

When the radar level sensor measures corrosive media, the general manufacturers will choose the anti-corrosion type tetrafluoro material contact surface. Considering environmental factors, a physically sealed anti-corrosion probe should be selected for this occasion.

Extended reading: Applicaitons Of Magnetostrictive Level Transmitters

The fourth principle: the choice of the host part.

For the most part, good sealing is required. As long as there is a little leakage of the medium. It is possible to enter the inside of the level sensor from the housing or the wire inlet. As a result, the internal circuit board is corroded. For corrosive gases in the environment, anti-corrosion high-frequency radar level sensors can be used to protect the service life of the host.

The above is how we analyzed how to choose a level sensor for concentrated sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid. If concentrated sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid exceed a certain temperature range, and steam or vaporization occurs, it is necessary to consider the actual situation on-site and re-select the appropriate level sensor.

Extended reading: Ultrasonic level transmitter for Hazardous Liquids

From the working principle of ultrasonic level transmitter and radar level transmitter, we can see that the two have many similar parts. There is little difference in sulfuric acid corrosion resistance. This is also an important reason why many meter users do not know how to choose.

Both dilute sulfuric acid and concentrated sulfuric acid have acid mist and are volatile. Moreover, when the sulfuric acid pump is running, foams of different degrees will be generated on the surface of the sulfuric acid. These factors will affect the accuracy of the sound velocity measurement of the ultrasonic liquid level transmitter. In this regard, feedback results from a large number of user applications show that in measuring the level of sulfuric acid, both domestic and foreign ultrasonic level transmitters are not ideal.

Because the electromagnetic wave of the radar level transmitter is less affected by factors such as gas, foam, and dust. Therefore, radar level transmitters, especially high-frequency radar level transmitters, can be better used for sulfuric acid level measurement.

Extended Reading: Low Cost Float Level Sensor for Tank Liquid Volume Monitoring

In comparison, the measurement of the radar level transmitter is more accurate. Therefore, the radar level transmitter is more suitable for the level measurement of sulfuric acid than the ultrasonic level transmitter.

In specific practice, although the radar level transmitter is effective in measuring the level of sulfuric acid. But in the measurement of the sulfuric acid level in the first suction tank, the sulfuric acid level in the second suction tank, and the sulfuric acid level in the underground tank. Anti-corrosion float level transmitters are widely used. This is because the price of radar-level transmitters is relatively expensive. The anti-corrosion float level transmitter is more cost-effective.

But in terms of measuring the level of sulfuric acid storage tanks. Few sulfuric acid plants use anticorrosive float level transmitters. This is because the anti-corrosion float level transmitter is under the impact of liquid from a higher tank. The guide rod is prone to bend. It is not suitable for use in sulfuric acid storage tanks. Most sulfuric acid plants use radar level transmitters for sulfuric acid level measurement.

Read More about: Ultrasonic level transmitter VS Radar level transmitter

Extended reading: Radar Oil Tank Level Sensor

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Laser Level Transmitter

What is a laser level transmitter? A laser level transmitter is also called a laser level…

Extended reading: What is the difference between ultrasonic and radar level transmitters?

Sino-Inst is a manufacturer of Radar level sensor for Sulfuric acid storage tank level measurement.
Sino-Inst offers over 30 Radar level sensors for level measurement.
About 50% of these are used as oil level meters, 30% is the Sulfuric acid storage tank level meter. A wide variety of Radar level sensor options are available to you, such as free samples, paid samples.

Sino-Instrument is a globally recognized supplier and manufacturer of Sulfuric acid storage tank level measurement instrumentation, located in China.

Sulfuric acid storage tank level measurement instruments are most popular in North America, Domestic Market, and South America. You can ensure product safety by selecting from certified suppliers, with ISO9001, and ISO14001 certification.

Sino-Inst’s entire team is well trained, so we can ensure that each customer’s needs are met. If you need any help with your product requirements, whether it is a radar level sensor, pressure sensor, or other equipment, please give us a call.

Extended Reading: What is level transmitter working principle?

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Ultrasonic level transmitter VS Radar level transmitter

Radar level transmitter and Ultrasonic level transmitter are both liquid level measuring instruments. The most obvious difference is that one uses electromagnetic waves and the other uses ultrasonic waves. So, besides that, what is the difference between a Radar level transmitter and an Ultrasonic level transmitter?

List of Differences: Radar vs Ultrasonic Level Measurement

Here, we first list the main differences between radar level gauges and ultrasonic level gauges. You can get answers directly and clearly.

  • The radar level gauge uses the microwave generated by the radar to complete the measurement work. Ultrasound is realized in the form of sound waves. This is also the essential difference between the two.
  • The temperature of the measuring medium is different. The temperature of the medium measured by the ultrasonic level gauge does not exceed 80°C. The radar level gauge is different, the medium temperature can be as high as 1200 ℃.
  • The operating conditions and environments are different. There are many styles of radar level gauges, such as: horn type, drop type, rod type, etc., so it can be applied to different working conditions. Ultrasonic liquid level gauges cannot be used in working conditions such as vacuum and corrosion-resistant liquids.
  • Accuracy and range are different. The accuracy of radar level gauge is much higher than that of ultrasonic level gauge. The range of the radar level gauge can reach 0-100M, and the range of the ultrasonic level gauge is only 0-30M.
  • This is about the price. Relatively speaking, the radar level gauge has a wide range of applications and a high temperature measurement medium. The price is also understandable. If the ultrasonic level gauge can meet the demand, it can also be selected.

The above 5 points have briefly summarized the differences between radar liquid level measurement and ultrasonic liquid level measurement.

Therefore, when we purchase, which instrument to choose as our measuring instrument should be combined with the conditions of our measured medium before making a choice. Don’t choose blindly.

If you want to continue to understand the details of Radar vs Ultrasonic Level Measurement, then please read on.

Ultrasonic technology is not only used to measure level, but also can be used to measure depth. Get more.

Extended Reading: Case: High Temperature Radar Level Transmitter for Melted Salt-Solar Photovoltaic Power Station

Ultrasonic VS Radar level transmitter – working principle

  1. Radar level transmitter

Radar level transmitter adopts the circuit design of a high-frequency microstrip line structure, and the internal circuit generates a 25GHz microwave pulse signal. Based on the design principle of the high-frequency waveguide, the microwave pulse is emitted from the end of the antenna through the PTFE emitter. When the transmitted pulse hits the surface of the measured medium, part of the energy is reflected back and received by the same antenna. Through the principle of time extension technology, the time interval between the transmitted pulse and the received pulse can be calculated. Then calculate the distance from the antenna to the surface of the measured medium.

Extended Reading: bin level measuring system

  1. Ultrasonic level transmitter

An ultrasonic level transmitter is a digital level meter controlled by a microprocessor. In the measurement, pulsed ultrasonic waves are emitted by the sensor (transducer). The sound waves are received by the same sensor after being reflected by the surface of the object and converted into electrical signals. The distance between the sensor and the object to be measured is calculated from the time between the emission and reception of the sound wave. Due to the non-contact measurement, the measured medium is almost unlimited. It can be widely used to measure the height of various liquid and solid materials.

From the above two principles, we can see the following two differences:

  1. Radar level transmitter emits electromagnetic waves. The wave speed has nothing to do with ambient temperature, smoke, pressure, etc. It’s the same even in a vacuum. The propagation speed is always the speed of light.
  2. Ultrasonic level transmitter emits ultrasonic waves, which are mechanical waves. Like sound waves, its propagation speed is closely related to the state of the propagation medium. Ultrasonic level gauges are used to measure the liquid level of atmospheric vessels. The probe contains a temperature measuring element that can compensate the temperature of the wave velocity. Because of the material. The temperature range used is relatively not very wide.

Extended reading: The Secret of Ultrasonic Level Measurement

Extended Reading: What is level transmitter working principle?

Read more about: Common River Water Level Measurement Methods

Ultrasonic VS Radar level transmitter – transmission method components are different

For example, ultrasonic waves are emitted by the vibration of piezoelectric materials. So Ultrasonic level transmitter cannot be used in high pressure or negative pressure occasions. Generally only used in atmospheric pressure vessels. The Radar level transmitter can be used in high-pressure process tanks.

The launch angle of radar is larger than that of ultrasonic. Non-contact radar is not recommended for small containers or elongated containers. Guided wave radar is generally recommended. Finally, there is the question of accuracy. Of course, the accuracy of radar is definitely higher than that of ultrasound. The high-precision radar must be used on the storage tank instead of ultrasonic. In terms of price, compared with an Ultrasonic level transmitter, the price of a Radar level transmitter is relatively high. Of course, the price of some large-scale ultrasounds is not low. Such as the range of 6 to 70 meters. The Radar level transmitter can’t reach a very large range. Only an Ultrasonic level transmitter can be selected.

Extended reading: Drop Antenna Radar Tank Level Sensor

Extended reading: Dam water level measurement

Ultrasonic VS Radar level transmitter-different applications

The different working principles result in a big difference between the applications of Radar level transmitters and Ultrasonic level transmitters. It is specifically manifested in the following aspects:

  1. Because the Radar level transmitter uses electromagnetic waves. It is greatly affected by the dielectric constant of the measured substance. The ultrasonic wave used in the Ultrasonic level transmitter is a mechanical wave. Mainly affected by the density of the measured medium. Therefore, when the dielectric constant of the measured substance is very low, Ultrasonic level transmitter should be used for measurement instead of Radar level transmitter.
  2. The measurement range of Ultrasonic level transmitter is not as large as Radar level transmitter. Radar emits electromagnetic waves, which can be measured without the aid of a propagation medium. Ultrasonic waves are sound waves and mechanical waves, which need to be propagated by means of a propagation medium. Therefore, the ultrasonic level gauge has many limitations in the application process:

(1) Ultrasonic level transmitter cannot be used in working conditions such as vacuum, high steam content or foam on the liquid surface.

(2) Ultrasonic level transmitter has temperature and pressure limitations. The temperature at the probe of the Ultrasonic level transmitter generally cannot exceed 80 degrees, and the speed of the sound wave is greatly affected by temperature. Ultrasonic level transmitter is greatly affected by pressure, generally within 0.3MPa. Because sound waves are generated by vibration, the sound-producing parts will be affected when the pressure is too high. Extended Reading: GWR Level Sensor for High Temperature & High Pressure

(3) Ultrasonic level transmitters cannot measure well when there is a lot of fog or dust in the measurement environment. More about Top 5 Ultrasonic Level Sensor Applications.

In contrast, because the radar is an electromagnetic wave, it is not affected by vacuum. The applicable range of medium-temperature and pressure is also very wide. With the advent of high-frequency radar. Its application range is even wider. Under the same conditions, the Ultrasonic level transmitter is more limited.

  1. The pressure occasions of the two applications are different. Because of the different transmission methods of radar and ultrasonic components. For example, ultrasonic waves are emitted by the vibration of piezoelectric materials. So Ultrasonic level transmitter cannot be used in high pressure or negative pressure occasions. Generally only used in atmospheric pressure vessels. The Radar level transmitter can be used in high-pressure process tanks.
  2. Radar level transmitter has horn type, pole type, cable type, etc. to choose from. Can be applied to different measurement occasions. Compared with ultrasonic level gauges, Radar level transmitters can be used in more complex working conditions.
  3. The launch angle of radar is larger than that of ultrasonic. Non-contact radar is not recommended for small containers or elongated containers. Guided wave radar is generally recommended. Finally, there is the issue of accuracy. Of course, the accuracy of radar is higher than that of ultrasound. The high-precision radar must be used on the storage tank instead of ultrasonic.
  4. In terms of price, Radar level transmitter is more expensive than Ultrasonic level transmitter. Of course, some large-range Ultrasonic level transmitters are expensive. The Radar level transmitter can’t reach the very large range, so you can only choose the ltrasonic level transmitter.

Extended reading: FMCW Radar Level Transmitter 120GHz

Extended Reading: Dielectric constant for radar level transmitter

However, whether it is a Radar level transmitter or an ultrasonic level transmitter, you must pay attention to the installation location and blind spots during the installation process. For example, when installing on the tank, do not install it near the feed inlet and the human ladder. At the same time, keep a distance of 300 to 500mm from the tank wall to prevent echo interference. When there is agitation and the liquid level fluctuates greatly, a suitable installation method should also be selected.

Extended reading: guided wave radar level sensor advantages and disadvantages

More Level Measurement Solutions

Laser Level Transmitter

What is a laser level transmitter? A laser level transmitter is also called a laser level…

Our conclusions:

We cannot say that the radar level meter must be better than the ultrasonic level meter.

Both radar level meter and ultrasonic level meter can be better used for liquid level measurement.

But which level meter should be used in practical application? It should be determined according to the process conditions, medium characteristics, combined with installation conditions, use environment and other factors. Read more about: Ultrasonic Level Sensors for Liquids Applications

Sino-Inst has been committed to providing customers with liquid level and material level measurement solutions for many years. Experience. We supply ultrasonic level meter, explosion-proof ultrasonic level meter, radar level meter, hydrostatic pressure level meter, etc.

If you need to choose between the two. Then we must sort out the measurement conditions first, and then choose the appropriate level meter. You can also consult our sales engineers.

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Laser Level Transmitter

What is a laser level transmitter?

A laser level transmitter is also called a laser level meter. Industrial Accurate, non-contact, and uninterrupted real-time monitoring of material height. Designed for material level and liquid level. A laser level transmitter is a continuous or high-speed pulsed laser beam emitted by a semiconductor laser.

The laser beam meets the surface of the object to be measured and reflects. The light return is received by the laser receiver. And accurately record the time difference between laser emission and reception. In order to determine the distance from the laser radar to the measured object. Laser level transmitter is similar to radar/ultrasonic level sensor.

The laser level transmitter is a non-contact level gauge. The product is powerful, sturdy and durable. It has excellent accuracy and high stability. It achieves accurate, non-contact and uninterrupted real-time monitoring of material height. Industrial site and process, river water level monitoring, material height monitoring and other occasions have very broad applications.

Laser level transmitter Main features:

  • Abundant output interfaces: TTL, RS232, RS485, 4~20mA, CANBUS, ModBus, 0~5V, 0~10V;
  • Ultra-wide power supply voltage: 6~36V DC;
  • The resolution is 0.1mm, and the single acquisition accuracy is better than 1mm;
  • Protection grade: IP67 (anti-salt fog, mildew, anti-collision treatment);
  • Built-in over-current automatic recovery, anti-reverse connection, anti-surge and lightning protection;
  • Non-contact measurement technology, less affected by the working environment, easy to install, layout and back-end control;
  • In an outdoor environment, it can still maintain high measurement accuracy and reliability;
  • The sensor can be processed into a fully sealed, convenient to use in harsh environments;
  • It can be powered by vehicle power supply and industrial DC power supply;
  • Stable power consumption, very low power consumption (when there is no current alarm, the power consumption is less than 1W);
  • Standard industrial bus interface, with operating software to realize all-round industrial automation control;
  • Liquid level and material level height monitoring;
  • It can be equipped with Bluetooth, GPRS, WIFI, rechargeable lithium battery and other functions.

Extended reading: Float Level Sensors – Single and Multipoint

Laser level transmitter data:

Shortest distance0.05m
The longest distance [indoor]10m  20m  40m  80m  200m
Precision±1mm; single measurement accuracy is better than 1mm
Resolution0.1mm
Output frequencyUp to 8Hz
laserVisible laser
Laser classClass Ⅱ safety laser
Laser wavelength635nm~650nm
Spot diameter10m@10mm
Laser life>50000h
AnnotationPlease do not stare into the beam, avoid contact with the laser, according to EN60825-1:2003-10 standard
Input voltageDC6-36V
Whole machine power consumption<1W
Digital outputRS485, RS232, TTL, CANBUS, ModBus
Analog output4-20mA, 0~5V, 0~10V
Instrument size80mm*63.4mm*32mm
Shell materialAluminum black anodized
weight200g
Protection levelIP67
Operating temperature-15℃…+50℃
storage temperature-30℃……+70℃

Laser level transmitter Applications:

Application range:

  • Liquid asphalt, polymerization reactor vessel (high pressure),
  • Reactor vessel (vacuum), molten glass, ferrous and non-ferrous metals,
  • Alloy polystyrene, nylon, polychloride and other core blocks, talcum powder or lime powder,
  • Ore, waste rock in ore chute, wet or dry wood chips;
  • Mining, chemical industry;
  • High-risk areas such as pharmaceuticals, papermaking, plastics, oil and gas, etc.

Restrictions on use: poor accuracy or uselessness under foggy conditions

ElementFactors that extend the measuring rangeFactors that shorten the measuring range
Target surfaceThe brightly reflective surface, such as reflectorDim and matte surface, green and blue surface
Air particlesClean airDust, fog, heavy rain, blizzard
Daylight intensityDark environmentThe target is brightly illuminated
  • Rough surface: When measuring rough surfaces (such as plaster walls), aim at the center of the shiny area.
  • Transparent surface: Please do not measure on the surface of transparent objects, such as colorless liquids (such as water) or glass (no dust).
  • Oblique round surface: The measurement can only be performed when the target area is large enough to accommodate the laser spot.

Extended reading: Hydrostatic Level Measurement

Extended reading: What is Modbus Protocol?

Laser level transmitter working principle

The laser level transmitter adopts the phase method laser ranging technology. Using the frequency of the radio band, the laser beam is amplitude modulated and the phase delay produced by the modulated light going back and forth to the measuring line is measured. Then according to the wavelength of the modulated light, the phase delay represented by this is converted distance. That is, the indirect method is used to measure the time required for the light to pass through the measuring line.

The distance D from the surface of the material is proportional to the time travel T of the pulse:

D=C×T/2

Where C is the speed of light

Since the distance E of the empty tank is known, the level L is:

L=E-D

According to the range and full scale information set by the user, the processor calculates the percentage of the current material level, and then outputs 4-20mA or 0-5V analog signals, RS485 Modbus digital signals, and warning alarm relay switch signals in proportion.

Advantage:

  • The measuring beam has a small divergence angle and good directivity;
  • Large range, long-distance measurement, minimum blind spot;
  • Not affected by the temperature of the medium;
  • Non-intrusive measurement, non-contact measurement;
  • Fast measurement speed, suitable for fast-changing liquid level and material level measurement;
  • Easy to use, programmable measurement;
  • Accurate measurement and high precision are suitable for high-demand projects;
  • The resolution is ten times higher than the general table;
  • The beam angle is small, suitable for long-distance positioning and avoiding obstacles.

Disadvantages:

  • Easy to be interfered by the light source in the test band and absorbed by the dark object;
  • Slightly more expensive

Extended reading: Ultrasonic Level Switch-External Mounted

Extended reading: Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter Advantages And Disadvantages

Laser-level measurement has gained popularity in industrial applications. The advantage of laser level measurement is an accurate and simple measurement without contact with the measured material. Even materials with a low dielectric constant can be easily measured with a laser transmitter.

The laser beam is very narrow (divergence <0.3°), and a small spot is formed on the surface, which is usually less than 30cm even at a long distance. The figure below shows a typical installation on the storage bin. The laser transmitter is mounted on the reel using a rotating flange to ensure precise alignment to the bottom of the silo. In order to strengthen the protection, a dustproof tube is also used. For plastic applications, it is important to use metal mounting plates or flanges and ensure that they are properly grounded to the silo to help eliminate static buildup.

Extended Reading: GWR Level Sensor for High Temperature & High Pressure

Extended reading: Radar Level Sensor Advantages and Disadvantages

In order to use water resources rationally, real-time detection of the water level of various water areas is particularly important, so the demand for water level gauges is huge.

The laser level meter is a new type of distance measuring equipment with the advantages of high accuracy, fast response, large range, non-contact measurement, etc. It is suitable for my country’s rivers, lakes, reservoirs, hydraulics, ship locks, rivers, urban water and other liquid level monitoring occasions.

Extended reading: Ultrasonic level transmitter for Hazardous Liquids

Extended reading: Capacitive water level sensor

There are many different ways to measure the level of liquid in a tank, but laser tank level measurement is becoming increasingly popular. This is because laser tank level measurement is more accurate than other methods, and it is also much easier to install and maintain.

Laser tank level measurement works by sending a laser beam across the surface of the liquid in the tank. The laser beam is reflected off the surface of the liquid, and the time it takes for the laser beam to return to the sensor is measured. This time can then be used to calculate the level of the liquid in the tank.

One advantage of laser tank level measurement over other methods is that it is not affected by the temperature or density of the liquid. This means that it can be used to measure the level of liquids with very different properties, such as water and oil.

Another advantage of laser tank level measurement is that it is not affected by the build-up of sediment on the bottom of the tank. This can be a problem with other methods, such as ultrasonic level measurement, which rely on sound waves to measure the level of liquid.

Laser tank level measurement is also much easier to install than other methods. This is because there are no moving parts, and the laser beam can be directed through a small hole in the top of the tank. This means that laser tank level measurement can be used in tanks that are difficult to access, such as those in underground storage facilities.

If you are looking for a reliable and accurate way to measure the level of liquid in a tank, laser tank level measurement is the ideal solution.

Extended Reading: Silo/Bin material level measurement system

Read More About: Ultrasonic tank level bottom sensor

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Extended reading: Ultrasonic Oil Level Sensor-External Paste-Truck Fuel Tank

Laser Level Transmitter is a large-range, high-accuracy explosion-proof level measurement product supplied by Sino-Inst. It has the functions of level measurement, average temperature measurement, switch alarm output, and can be displayed beside the tank. The product structure is reasonable, the precision is high, and the maintenance rate is low.

Laser Level Transmitter can measure media and application methods: particles, lumps, viscosity, water conservancy, distance measurement, liquid level measurement, material level measurement and other working conditions.

Laser Level Transmitter application scale:
Liquid asphalt, polymerization reactor vessel (high pressure), reactor vessel (vacuum), molten glass, black and non-ferrous metals, alloy polystyrene. Pellets such as nylon, polyvinyl chloride, talc or lime powder, ores, waste rock from draw chutes, wet or dry wood chips. Mining, chemical. High-risk areas such as pharmaceuticals, paper, plastics, oil and gas.

Sino-Inst offers over 50 level transmitters for level measurement.

About 50% of these are liquid level meters, 40% is the tank level sensor.

A wide variety of level meters options are available to you, such as free samples, paid samples.

Sino-Instrument is a globally recognized supplier and manufacturer of level measurement instrumentation, located in China.

Powder Silo/Bin Level Measurement and Control System

The Silo/Bin level measurement and control system solves the problem of frequent dumping accidents in the powder silo of the mixing station during the feeding process. It avoids the problems of dust flying, waste of cement, and environmental pollution. It reduces the equipment damage caused by the collapse of the dust removal hood of the mixing station Other issues and prevents the safety issues of the workers present.

The importance of Silo/Bin level monitoring

In the production process of the mixing station, the material in the powder silo is replenished in time by means of pneumatic conveying. Most of the dust collectors on the top of the powder silo of the mixing station lack normal maintenance. During the replenishment of the tank body, the pressure of the powder silo is too high, causing “roof fall”. Cement overflows from the dust collector or safety valve. Or “lift the top”, the separation of the top cover of the powder silo from the body of the powder silo occurs.

The intelligent safety system of the powder silo passes through the intelligent detection equipment installed on the silo. achieve:

  • Predict the amount of storage in the warehouse and control the amount of feed;
  • Three-level protection to prevent the occurrence of “top falling” and “lifting top” accidents;
  • Prevent the wrong storage of cement, fly ash, and mineral powder, and prevent construction quality accidents;
  • Cloud platform monitoring platform, real-time monitoring of the status parameters of the powder silo;

Extended Reading: What is level transmitter working principle?

Silo/Bin material level measurement system

System Features

  • Instead of “manual hammering”, the remaining amount of materials in the warehouse can be controlled at any time to provide a basis for procurement and inventory;
  • The resistance rotary switch is intelligently controlled, and the signal is incorporated into the material level measurement system, which greatly extends its service life;
  • Real-time alarm on the feeding surface when feeding, to prevent the occurrence of “roof fall” accidents;
  • The application of product intelligent diagnosis algorithm solves the difficulties of heavy hammer level gauges in the industry that it is too faulty and difficult to maintain;
  • The control system adopts a distributed network system, wireless transmission, stable and reliable, and fast wiring;
  • Reserved information interface to meet the needs of remote control and ERP management system;
  • Distributed control system layout, display the working status of the entire system and equipment parameters on the touch screen;

Extended reading: PID Controller Working Principle

Important components of the system

  1. High-altitude material level detector

Installed on the top of each silo, it is the main measuring equipment of the material level measuring system. It can more accurately monitor the amount of storage in the warehouse in real time, and has the characteristics of resistance to heavy dust and long service life.

  1. High-performance anti-rotation level switch

The anti-rotation material level switch is installed vertically downward to detect whether the motor is working. Through the safety feeding valve to start and stop the rotation resistance, the service life is extended to 3-5 years; with the central control touch screen alarm and the ground terminal alarm, it can effectively prevent the occurrence of “top falling” accidents.

  1. Central control system

It adopts a 15-inch touch LCD screen, an embedded operating system, and is equipped with the material level measurement system software independently developed by the company. The equipment adopts 485 communication interface, which has the characteristics of fast transmission rate, high signal strength, and low failure rate.

  1. Ground display terminal

One set is equipped at the bottom of each silo, which is used for sound and light alarm when the material level triggers the anti-rotation switch alarm (synchronized with the weighing room alarm), real-time display of material weight and percentage, promptly reminding the operator to take measures to avoid accidents.

  1. Safety feeding valve

The safety feeding valve is installed at the feeding port of the powder silo, which can effectively prevent the wrong silo from loading, reduce management costs, ensure the quality of concrete, and prevent production accidents.

  1. Remote display

Remote monitoring shows whether the current silo can be loaded, and guides the vehicle to load the corresponding silo.

Featured Silo Level Sensors

Extended reading: Magnetostrictive Hydraulic Cylinder Position Sensor

Advantages of Radar Silo Level Sensors

High frequency radar Silo Level Sensor is currently the mainstream product for measuring solid level in the world. When measuring solid material level, compared with low frequency radar, high frequency radar has the following advantages:

1) High-frequency radar level gauges (mainly 26GHz and 24GHz) have the advantages of high energy, small beam angle and high precision. However, low-frequency radars have low energy and scattered energy, so all launch angles are large and the directivity is poor. When the diameter of the horn antenna of the low-frequency pulse radar is Φ246, the beam angle is only 15°).

2) The wavelength of 26GHz radar is 11mm, and the wavelength of 6GHz radar is 50mm. When the radar measures the bulk material level, the radar wave reflection mainly comes from the diffuse reflection of the material surface. The intensity of diffuse reflection is proportional to the size of the material and inversely proportional to the wavelength. That is to say, for the same material, the shorter the wavelength is, the easier it is to be reflected, so the echo signal is better during radar measurement. The diameter of most bulk materials is far less than 50mm, which is why 26GHz radar is currently the best choice for bulk material level measurement.

3) Due to the harsh environment on site, dirt, water vapor, etc. will accumulate on the radar antenna over time. The 26GHz radar antenna is small, adding a radome can greatly improve the impact of dirt and water vapor. The 6GHz radar antenna is large, and it is very difficult to add a radome. The overall instrument is large and difficult to clean.

4) When the low-frequency radar (6GHz) measures solids, the measurement range will not exceed 30m. It cannot meet all level measurements of cement lines above 2500T/d scale. The general measurement range of high-frequency radar can reach 70 meters, or even 100 meters. It can fully meet all silos of cement production lines of all scales at present.

5) Because the high-frequency radar level gauge has good directivity and small launch angle. Strong anti-interference ability and so on. It is determined that it is very suitable for the measurement of silos with large aspect ratios. Especially such as calcium carbide furnace material level, converter silo and other material level measurement. Neither of these situations can be measured with low frequency radar.

6) Low frequency radar compared to high frequency radar. Due to its low frequency, the energy is scattered and the energy is not concentrated enough. Therefore, the ability to fight against dust is far inferior to high-frequency radar.

Extended reading: How to Choose the Right Diesel Fuel Level Sensor?

Safe feeding system for powder silo

The remote display of the weighing room shows the warehouse number and the material is allowed to be loaded. The driver holds the card to the ground display terminal and swipes the card if the warehouse allows loading. When the card number is the same as the warehouse number. Only then can the feeding valve be automatically opened.

After the card is valid, the access control baffle is automatically fully opened within 15 seconds. After swiping the card again, the access control shutter will automatically be fully closed within 15 seconds.

The powder safety feeding valve system comes with a closed door detection. Real-time detection of closed door status.

The feeding valve cannot be opened without swiping the card or reading the correct ID information

After loading, the driver needs to swipe his card to close the access control. Then go to the weighing room to hand in the card, otherwise the system prompts that the access control is open. The weighing house will not weigh the vehicle.

At present, the loading port of the cement silo of most mixing plants adopts simple mechanical locking methods. In actual production, it is easy to cause the wrong material to enter the silo, and the loading is not closed and locked. The intelligent material level system for powder silo developed by our company. It has the advantages of easy installation and maintenance, accurate measurement, high safety in use, and no need to stop production during installation. It is currently the preferred solution for real-time measurement of the powder silo level on the market.

Extended reading: 5 Industrial Propane Tank Level Indicators

Solid flow meter | For bulk solids-powder-soybean-cement 

In fact, in addition to monitoring the material level of the bin, we can also know the material level of Silo/Bin by monitoring the flow of solid particles or powder.

What is a solid flow meter?

The solid flow meter is suitable for the measurement of solid mass flow in a wide range of metal-enclosed pipelines from kg/h to t/h. The system is suitable for online monitoring of the flow of solids such as powder, dust, pellets, granules, etc., which are pneumatically conveyed or in free fall (1nm-20mm). Solid flow meters are also called solid powder flow meters, intelligent electrostatic powder flow meters, solid dust flow meters, coal powder flow meters, mineral powder flow meters, lime flow meters, cement flow meters, flour flow meters, petroleum coke powder flow meters.

Read more about: Solid Flow Meter Parameters

More Featured Level Measurement Solutions

FAQ

Simply put, silo levels measurement is divided into contact and non-contact measurement. Technical measures are taken to detect the accumulation height and surface position of granular materials in coal storage bins (raw coal bins, buffer bins, product bins, etc.) in the coal preparation plant. The equipment for detecting the grain position is called the level gauge.

Extended reading: GWR Solid Level Sensor-for Cement silo-Ash powder measure

The point level sensor can indicate whether the fluid level is higher or lower than a specific point. Usually the point level switch is used as a warning indicator. When the liquid level is too high or too low, an alarm is triggered and the liquid level is kept between two points.

Point level sensors have a wide range of types and are suitable for many applications and materials. The float level sensor is a common point level sensor. The float level switch is composed of a fixed rod and afloat; the float has a built-in permanent magnet that moves freely along the fixed rod as the liquid level rises and falls. The magnetic field of the permanent magnet acts on the reed switch. The closer it is to the reed switch, the stronger the force will be. After the threshold, the reed switch is closed. The float level sensor has a sturdy and durable structure and the measurement deviation is less than 1%.

When every possible intermediate level of a tank or container needs to be measured, a continuous level sensor is required, also known as continuous level measurement. This means that the sensor will provide feedback regardless of the liquid level.
For applications that require continuous level measurement such as fuel tanks and storage tanks, the continuous level sensor can indicate the fluid level in a given container that is within the range.

The radar level sensor is a radar level gauge based on the principle of time domain reflection (TDR). The electromagnetic pulse of the radar level gauge propagates along the steel cable or probe at the speed of light. When encountering the surface of the measured medium. Part of the pulse of the radar level gauge is reflected to form an echo and returns to the pulse transmitter along the same path. The distance between the transmitting device and the surface of the measured medium is proportional to the propagation time of the pulse between them. The height of the liquid level is calculated.

Read more: Non-Contacting Radar Level Measurement


Sino-Inst offers more than 40 powder silo/silo level measurement and control systems. About 50% of them are level gauges and 50% are silo level sensors. Suitable for highest and lowest level product detection, they can be installed in flat bottom silos and hopper silos to prevent silos from overflowing or emptying.

There are various powder silo/silo level measurement and control systems for you to choose, such as free samples, paid samples.

Sino-Inst is a globally recognized powder silo/silo level measurement and control system instrumentation supplier and manufacturer, located in China.

Sino-Inst offers a wide range of high-quality silo level sensors designed for various environments at competitive prices. Helps operators accurately monitor and measure liquid level and flow in silos. A range of non-contact solutions means that the operator does not have to come into direct contact with any substance. It also means that the process is not interrupted.

Sino-Inst’s entire team is well trained, so we can ensure that each customer’s needs are met. If you need any help with your product requirements, whether it is a silo level sensor, level sensors, or other equipment, please give us a call.

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Water depth sensor- Water level sensor Solutions

How do you measure the depth of water?

Water depth sensors are also known as water level sensors. Water depth sensors are often used to measure tank levels, well depths, river depths, etc. There are many different types of water depth sensors. All of them are used to measure the water level by submerging underwater or above the water surface. Then, they are converted into a water depth or water level signal. For example, submersible hydrostatic level meter, ultrasonic level meter, etc.

At present, the common measurement principle of liquid level meter in the industry involves mechanics, thermal, electrical, optical, and other aspects. The product models even reach hundreds of kinds. Of course, different types of level meters mean that they are produced, used, and calibrated in different ways. It is not possible to fit all measurement environments.

Water Depth/Level Sensors Types

The following will be from the perspective of the measurement method, for the current market more than ten kinds of liquid level meter classification. To help users in the selection of products to make the appropriate choice.

Water Depth Sensors measured by buoyancy

The buoyancy type level meter has a float (float ball or float). The float is in equilibrium on the static liquid level. When the liquid level changes, the float is displaced with the liquid level. The electronic component acquires the float displacement in a certain way. And then converted to the liquid level change.

Due to the different ways of receiving float displacement by electronic components, the buoyancy method liquid level meter is divided into magnetic flap level meter, float level meter, magnetostrictive level meter, etc.

Magnetic level meter consists of magnetic float, cylindrical container, scale and transmitter.

The float moves with the liquid level in the container, and the magnetic field of the float acts on the sensor. The sensor is a strip of rubber-sealed in a stainless steel tube of equal length to the measured liquid level. There are numerous reed switches welded to it at intervals of 1cm or less.

When the reed switch is at the same level as the float, it closes. Otherwise, the transmitter receives the current signal generated by the amount of resistance connected to the reed switch, which is converted to the liquid level.

Float movement is shown on the scale as a red and white bead flip, indicating the liquid level.

Extended reading: Water Tank Level Controller

Float level meter has a float, spring, magnetic steel chamber and indicator, designed according to Archimedes’ law and magnetic coupling principle.

The displacement of the float causes the magnetic field of the magnet chamber to change. The magnetic sensor inside the indicator precisely measures the change of the surrounding magnetic field.

Float Level Sensors – Single and Multipoint

The magnetostrictive level meter is mainly composed of float, waveguide, and transmitter.

The electronic component of the transmitter generates a low-voltage current pulse, which starts timing and generates a magnetic field that propagates down the magnetostrictive line.

The float moves along the measuring rod as the level changes, and the magnet inside the float also generates a magnetic field. When the two magnetic fields meet, the magnetostrictive lines are twisted to form a torsional stress wave pulse. The velocity of the pulse is known, and the pulse propagation time is calculated to correspond to the exact change in the liquid level.

Magnetostrictive Level Transmitters

Extended reading: Magnetostrictive Hydraulic Cylinder Position Sensor

Liquid level meter measured by pressure

The level meter of pressure method is the level meter that reflects the liquid level by measuring the liquid pressure through its pressure measuring element. It is generally composed of transmitter, sensor and pressure probe. The sensor is a special metal rod or cable with a built-in capillary hose, and the probe is constructed as a stainless steel cylinder core with a diaphragm at the bottom.

The probe intrudes into the liquid and tests the difference between the static pressure of the liquid and the actual atmospheric pressure, which varies with the liquid level. The electronic components receive the differential pressure signal to reflect the change in liquid level. According to the different materials of sensors are divided into two types of rod and cable type.

Rod type pressure level meter sensor is a metal rod. Its general technical parameters are, the measurement range is generally 0 ~ 5m, output signal: (4 ~ 20) mA, measurement accuracy is generally ± 0.5%.

SMT3151TR Submersible Level Transmitter
Hydrostatic level transmitter is also called hydrostatic level gauge. The rod-type Hydrostatic level transmitter 4-20mADC standard signal output. Flange or threaded installation. Can withstand high temperatures up to 450 ℃.

Because the sensor is a cable, can be bent, convenient handling and loading, so the range of the cable type pressure level meter can be very large, there are 100m, or even 300m, its measurement accuracy is generally ± 1.0%.

SI-151 Hydrostatic Level Sensor
Hydrostatic Level Sensor (Best Price), also called Hydrostatic level transmitter. Continuous level measurement in liquid applications with pressure sensors.

Differential pressure level meter is also through the detection of pressure differences to measure the liquid level.

The level meter has two pressure-taking ports in the gas phase and liquid phase.

The pressure at the gas phase pressure point is the pressure of the gas phase in the equipment. The pressure at the liquid phase pressure point is not only affected by the gas phase pressure, but also by the static pressure of the liquid column.

The difference between the liquid phase and gas phase pressure is the static pressure generated by the liquid column, which is converted into the liquid surface height.

Liquid level meter measured by reflection

At present, there are two main types of reflective level meters: radar level meter and ultrasonic level meter. Their principles are basically the same, they are through the emission – reflection – reception of ultrasonic or electromagnetic wave (radar wave) way to measure the liquid level height.

Radar level measurement uses Non-contacting radar technology for Continuous level measurement. Liquids and solids are commonly measured with this measuring technique.

Radar level transmitters use radar technology to perform non-contact continuous level measurement. The radar level indicator converts the level into an electrical signal. The level signal output can then be utilised by other instrumentation to monitor or control. Liquids and solids are commonly measured with this measuring technique. Like: Fly ash silo. Radar level sensors are divided into: Pulsed radar technology and frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar level sensors.

Sino-Inst produces a 120GHz FMCW radar level sensor, 26GHz radar level meter, 6GHz level meter.

Extended reading: Radar Level Meter for Corrosive Liquids

Extended reading: Radar Water Level Sensor Applications

Ultrasonic Level Sensing sensors and transmitters are used for continuous, non-contact level measurement.

Ultrasonic Level Sensing is a low-cost liquid level measurement technology. Ultrasonic Level Sensing sensors and transmitters are used for tank or river level measurement. Ultrasonic Level Sensing does not need to contact the medium, can be continuously measured at low cost. Therefore, Ultrasonic Level Sensing is very popular among users. Ultrasonic liquid level sensors are available in general and intrinsically safe types. Output 4~20mA standard signal or output the measurement result to the secondary meter through RS-485. Meets the system’s automatic control.

Extended Reading: Wireless Water Meter

Liquid level meter through the conductive method of measurement

Level meters in the conductive mode are based on the electrical principle. The level is measured by means of measuring capacitance or resistance. This type of level meter mainly includes capacitance level meter, radio frequency conductivity level meter, resistance level meter.

The Capacitance level meter uses the change of measuring capacitance to measure the level of the liquid.

By a metal rod inserted into the liquid container, the metal rod is a pole of capacitance, the container wall is the other pole of capacitance. The medium between the two electrodes is the liquid and the gas above it.

As the dielectric constant of the liquid and the dielectric constant of the gas on the liquid surface is different, the level of the liquid is measured by the change of the capacitance between the two electrodes.

Extended reading: Capacitive water level sensor

RF conductivity level meter is an upgraded version of capacitance level meter, which can be understood as measuring conductivity with high frequency radio waves.

When the instrument works, the sensor of the instrument and the filling wall, and the measured medium form the conductivity value. When the level changes, the conductance value changes accordingly. The circuit unit converts the measured conductance value into a level signal output. To achieve the level measurement.

Extended reading: Radar Non Contact Water Level Sensor

Deep Well Water Level Sensor

Deep Well water level sensor is to apply Hydrostatic Level Sensor to deep well. The Well water level sensor submerged in deep well works together with a submersible water pump. The range within 300m ~ 1000m.

Deep Wells Water level sensor is based on the principle that the measured liquid pressure is proportional to the height of the liquid. The piezoresistive effect of the advanced foreign isolated silicon diffused sensor is used. Change to electrical signal. After temperature compensation and linear correction, convert to 4-20mA standard electrical signal. Well water level sensor submerged in deep well work together with water pump. It is extremely difficult to replace and submit an inspection. Therefore, it adopts stainless steel cable, waterproof, sealing ring, and other four-level seals. Special cables and special water sealing technology make the transmitter highly reliable and stable.

Extended Reading: 3 inch (3″) Water Flow Meter

Portable Ultrasonic Water Depth Gauge

Water Depth Gauge is a portable water depth detector based on the principle of ultrasound. Ideal water depth measuring instrument for ships, oceans, reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and shallow water level monitoring.

Water Depth Gauge is a necessary instrument to measure water depth in reservoir, lake, river, shallow sear. Place ultrasonic transducer on water surface or into a certain position into water. The device can caculate current water depth. HS-SFCC Portable Ultrasonic Water Depth Gauge It has perfect water depth measurement function. Control function, data transmission function and man-machine communication function. This machine integrates ultrasonic transceiver sensor, servo circuit, temperature compensation sensor and compensation circuit unit, display, control signal output and serial data or analog output unit (optional) as a water depth measuring instrument. It has the characteristics of low maintenance, high reliability, long life, convenient use, simple operation and accurate measurement. Therefore, it is widely used in water area monitoring.

Read more about: Common River Water Level Measurement Methods

How do you measure water level in tank with sensor?

The Water Tank Level Sensor is an important part of the water tank level control system. Using a level sensor for the water tank, solenoid valve, control box, liquid level switch and other accessories can effectively form a Water Tank Level control system. Monitor the materials stored in the water tank. Master important data such as its liquid level, reserves, and quality. A reasonable liquid level can ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the storage tank.

Read more about: Water Tank Level Sensors for Level Control

More Level Measurement Solutions

Sino-Inst offers over 20 Water depth sensors for level measurement.

About 50% of these are liquid level meters, 40% is the tank level sensor.

A wide variety of Water depth sensors options are available to you, such as free samples, paid samples.

Sino-Instrument is a globally recognized supplier and manufacturer of level measurement instrumentation, located in China.

Water Tank Level Sensors for Level Monitoring & Control System

The water tank level sensor is an integral part of the water level monitoring and control system. They are responsible for real-time detection and feedback of the water level in the water tank. Water tank level sensors, solenoid valves, control boxes, liquid level switches and other accessories can be used to effectively form a water Level Monitoring & Control System. For example, in scenarios such as sewage treatment, drinking water storage and agricultural irrigation, the water pump switch can be automatically adjusted to control the Water intake and drainage to ensure stable water levels. Therefore, selecting an appropriate tank level sensor is a fundamental and critical task for any system that requires accurate water level monitoring.

Water Tank Level Monitoring and Control Systems

Water Tank Level Monitoring and Control Systems are a sophisticated set of technical devices used to track and manage water levels in water tanks in real time. Such systems typically include key components such as level sensors, controllers, displays, and actuators (such as pumps or valves).

  • Water Tank Level sensors are the core of the system, responsible for measuring and transmitting water level data. These sensors can be of various types such as float type, pressure type, ultrasonic type, capacitive type, etc., selected according to different application scenarios. They convert water level changes into electrical signals and send them to the controller in real time.
  • The controller is the brain of the system. It receives signals from the sensors and makes judgments based on the preset water level range. For example, when the water level is below the minimum limit, the controller will start the water pump to fill the water. When the water level reaches the maximum limit, the water pump will be stopped or the drainage valve will be opened to avoid overflow.
  • The display provides the operator with an intuitive interface showing current water levels, as well as system status and alarm information. This information helps operators understand whether the system is functioning properly or if manual intervention is required.
  • Finally, actuators, such as pumps and valves, are the actual devices that respond to controller commands and are responsible for physically regulating the flow of water. The system can automatically or manually adjust these mechanisms as needed to maintain water level stability.

Therefore, with Water Tank Level Monitoring and Control Systems, automatic management and control of water tank level can be achieved.

When the water level of the water tank drops to the set lower limit water level value, the liquid level controller sends a command to instruct the pump valve to open the water supply.

When the water level reaches the set upper limit water level value, the controller will issue an instruction to instruct the pump valve to close and stop the water supply.

In the same way, if necessary, the liquid level controller can also instruct the water pump or electric valve to perform the opposite operation.

Extended reading: Magnetostrictive Hydraulic Cylinder Position Sensor

Extended Reading: How to Measure Volume of Liquid

Water Tank Level Sensors Types

The water tank level sensor is a key device to ensure the accuracy of water level monitoring. According to their working principles and application environments, they can be mainly divided into the following types:

  • Float level sensor: This is a traditional liquid level sensor that detects water level changes by moving the float up and down. When the water level rises, the float floats up and drives the switch through the mechanical device to control the opening and closing of the water pump or valve. This kind of sensor is suitable for environments with relatively clean water and no large amounts of impurities and chemicals.
  • Pressure level sensor: also called submersible level sensors. This sensor determines the water level by measuring the pressure exerted by the liquid on the sensor. It is suitable for deep water environments such as deep wells and storage tanks, and can work stably under high pressure conditions.
  • Ultrasonic level sensor: An ultrasonic sensor calculates water level height by emitting ultrasonic waves and receiving their echoes. It is suitable for situations that are corrosive or polluting to contact sensors, such as wastewater and chemical storage tanks.
  • Radar water level sensors: Radar water level sensors have absolute advantages in large-range non-contact measurement. Radar Water Level Sensor can be 0.05m~35m ~70m~120m. Commonly used to measure water level monitoring in dams, reservoirs, rivers, etc.
  • Capacitive level Sensors: Capacitive sensors use changes in capacitance to detect fluid levels. They are ideal for level detection of viscous liquids or powdery substances, as these materials may interfere with other types of sensors.
  • Photoelectric level Sensor: Photoelectric sensors determine water level by detecting the obstruction or reflection of light by the liquid. This sensor is suitable for water level monitoring in small containers or cleaning liquids.

Comparison of digital sensors and traditional mechanical sensors:

Digital level sensor: Using advanced electronic technology, it can provide continuous, high-precision water level readings. And it can be seamlessly integrated with computer systems to facilitate remote monitoring and data analysis. They generally have better long-term stability and immunity to interference.

Traditional mechanical level sensors: usually refer to float sensors, which sense water level changes through a simple mechanical structure. Although these sensors are simple and low-cost, they are often less accurate than digital sensors and are susceptible to mechanical wear and water quality.

When selecting a water tank level sensor, it is important to select the most appropriate type based on factors such as the actual application environment, accuracy requirements, and whether remote monitoring is required.

Extended reading: Industrial Tank level indicators and Tank Level Gauges

We, Sino-Inst, are a professional manufacturer of Water Tank Level Sensors. Provide users with more than 50 types of Water Tank Level Sensors and switches.

Featured Water Tank Level Sensors

SI-U02 Multi-Point Liquid Level Float Switch
SI-U01 Float Level Sensor
SI-U03 Float Switch Water Level Controller

PLC liquid level display alarm

Programmable Logic Controller, PLC for short. A digital electronic device with a microprocessor. A digital logic controller used for automatic control. Control instructions can be loaded into the memory for storage and operation at any time.

The programmable controller is modularized by internal CPU, instruction and data memory, input and output unit, power supply module, digital-analog, and other units.

PLC can receive (input) and send (output) many types of electrical or electronic signals. And use them to control or supervise almost all types of mechanical and electrical systems.

Extended reading: ultrasonic level sensor for diesel tank

Program through the PLC system to realize the automatic level control system. It is composed of hardware and software. The hardware mainly includes PLC touch screens and related modules such as CPU, storage, output and input, power supply. On-site measurement includes various types of adaptation to different sites Conditional sensors, switches, etc. Also include sound and light warning lights, control buttons, and other related equipment.

By configuring the PLC liquid level display alarm device, it can realize the display of industrial site liquid level measurement, high and low liquid level alarms. As well as the opening and closing of pumps, valves, and other equipment. Unattended automatic workflow can be realized. Greatly improve production The efficiency, saving human cost. This brings about an increase in corporate benefits. It lays the foundation for the company to take the lead in severe competition in the future.

Therefore, in the current situation, whether it is a newly established project or a modified project, it is recommended that PLC equipment is the first choice when conditions permit.

Extended reading: Magnetostrictive Hydraulic Cylinder Position Sensor

Extended Reading: How many types of level transmitters are there?

Wireless water tank level sensor-Future Trends

Wireless GPRS liquid level alarm device, can be configured with eight channel alarm device, liquid level display alarm device, LED display. It can support liquid level meter switch, float level switch, pressure transmitter, thermocouple, thermal resistance, voltage, Current and transmitter input. Suitable for monitoring of industrial process quantities such as temperature, pressure, flow, and liquid level.

Extended Reading: 3 inch (3″) Water Meter

Construction-free installation: It can replace the connecting cable, and the transmission distance is long, eliminating the trouble of cable construction.

Support 8-channel alarm function, power supply 220VAC or 24VDC switching power supply. For explosion-proof occasions, explosion-proof sensors and explosion-proof instrument boxes can be used.

On-site measurement end. Configuration:

  1.  Level gauge (can be equipped with level gauge, pressure gauge, temperature gauge)
  2.  Signal acquisition instrument meter box (common type and explosion-proof type are optional)
  3.  The switch quantity acquisition module is included in the instrument box
  4.  DTU module in the instrument box

Extended reading: Ultrasonic Level Switch-External Mounted

FAQ

The function of the liquid level sensor is to detect the liquid level. The liquid level sensor is widely used in electrical appliances and industrial equipment that require water level control. The liquid level sensor can realize the function of water shortage protection.

Principle of water level sensor:
The water level sensor has a sensor. Transform the sensed water level signal into a current signal.

There are many types of water level sensors, so their specific measurement principles are different.
If you need to learn more. You can refer to:
Differential pressure type liquid level measuring instrument;
Float level measuring instrument;
Electric liquid level measuring instrument;
Ultrasonic liquid level measuring instrument;
Radar liquid level measuring instruments, etc.

Extended reading: Capacitive water level sensor

According to the situation of the tank, different types of water level sensors can be selected to monitor the water level of the water tank. Such as static pressure type liquid level sensor. It can be digitally displayed locally and the liquid level value can be displayed. It can also be output by a 4-20mA signal. Connect the signal to the secondary display instrument to monitor the level of the water tank.

Extended reading: Radar Non Contact Water Level Sensor

Extended reading: Radar Water Level Sensor Applications

Common water level sensors can be used for water level control. There are also sensors that can output switching signals, such as float level switches, and can also be used for water level control.

Extended reading: PID Controller Working Principle

The liquid level switch, as the name implies, is a switch used to control the liquid level. In terms of form, it is mainly divided into contact type and non-contact type.

Non-contact type such as capacitive liquid level switch.

Contact type such as: float type liquid level switch, electrode type liquid level switch, electronic liquid level switch.

The capacitive liquid level switch can also be realized by a contact method.

Extended reading: Float Switch Water Level Controller

Installing a tank level sensor is a process that requires precision and care. Specific installation steps may vary depending on sensor model and functionality, so be sure to carefully read the manufacturer’s operating manual and installation guide before installation. If necessary, consult a professional or contact the manufacturer’s technical support. Here are the basic steps and recommendations for installing a water tank level sensor:

Determine the installation location:
For float sensors, choose a location inside the tank that is not disturbed by the incoming and outgoing water flows.
For ultrasonic or capacitive sensors, the top center position of the water tank should be selected to ensure that there is a certain vertical distance between the sensor and the water surface (usually at least 30cm).

Install fixtures:
Depending on the sensor type and tank material, install the fixing bracket or mounting plate.
Make sure all fixings are securely attached to the tank to prevent the sensor from moving or falling off.

Connect power and output:
Connect the power and signal cables (e.g. 2-wire 4-20mA) according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
If the sensor has special power requirements (such as DC24V), please make sure the power adapter meets the requirements.

Debug the sensor:
Turn on the power and follow the instructions for preliminary settings and calibration.
For sensors that require calibration, a standard water level can be used to set upper and lower thresholds.

Check system operation:
Check that the sensor accurately reflects changes in water level.
Make sure there is no water leakage at all connections and the signal output is stable.

How to choose right Water Tank Level Sensor for your System

When selecting a tank level sensor and monitoring system, you need to consider the following specific recommendations and reference values:

Application Environment:

  • Water quality: If the water contains corrosive chemicals, sensors made of corrosion-resistant materials should be selected.
  • Temperature: Make sure the sensor’s operating temperature range covers your application environment, such as -20°C to 80°C. If 80°C~150°C, you can refer to high temperature level sensors.
  • Pressure: If used in deep wells, the sensor should be able to withstand a pressure of at least 2MPa.

Accuracy requirements:

  • If the water level needs to be accurately controlled (error range ±1mm), high-precision sensors such as ultrasonic or capacitive sensors should be used.
  • For general agricultural irrigation systems, the error range can be relaxed to ±5mm.

Installation and maintenance:

  • Choose a sensor that is easy to install and configured with appropriate mounting dimensions. Such as threads, flanges, clamps, etc.
  • Maintenance frequency: Choose sensors with high reliability (such as MTBF (mean time between failures) greater than 100,000 hours) to reduce the number of maintenance times.

Ease of use:

The user interface should have clear numerical or graphical displays to ensure easy operation.

Integration and Compatibility:

Choose sensors that support standard signal output and communication protocols (such as 4-20 mA, 0-10V, Modbus, etc.) to ensure compatibility with remote monitoring systems.

Budget and Cost Effectiveness:

  • Calculate the total cost of ownership, including purchase, installation, scheduled maintenance and potential breakdown repairs.
  • Consider sensors with energy-saving features, such as low-energy designs (power consumption less than 0.5W) to reduce operating costs.

Supplier technical support and services:

Choose sensors that offer at least a one-year warranty, and make sure the supplier has service points in the country for quick response.

By considering the specific recommendations and reference values above, you can select a tank level sensor and monitoring system that meets your technical requirements while being cost-effective.

More level monitoring solution

Extended reading: Fuel-Diesel-Water Tank Level Sensor Monitoring

When choosing a suitable water tank level sensor and monitoring system, we must consider a variety of factors, such as application environment, accuracy requirements, ease of installation and maintenance, and budget.

At the same time, we also provide other types of measuring instruments, such as wastewater flow measurement, liquid level measurement and pressure measurement equipment. These high-quality instruments can help you build a more comprehensive monitoring system.

Our Sino-Inst offers over 20 Water Tank Level Sensors for level measurement. About 50% of these are liquid level meters, 40% is the tank level sensor. A wide variety of Water Tank Level Sensors options are available to you, such as free samples, paid samples.

We offer a variety of measurement solutions and support customization to meet your specific needs. If you need professional advice or customized services, please contact us!

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Oil-water Interface Level Measurement Guide

Interface level measurement is very important for oil and gas, chemical tanks. At the same time, Interface level measurement is also a measurement and control challenge.


In today’s increasingly modernized oilfield production, automated crude oil processing has become a guarantee for the quality of refined oil. The performance of the oil-water interface fundamentally affects several key issues in crude oil processing: the water content of crude oil, energy consumption, sewage discharge indicators, etc.

Here we mainly compare the working principle, usage and common failures of several oil-water interface instruments commonly used in North China Oilfield. Hope to help you find a suitable solution when measuring oil-water interface.

Interface level measurement technologies

According to the different measurement principles of the interface instrument, the interface instrument can be roughly divided into: magnetic radio frequency admittance type, short wave absorption type, capacitive type, servo type and so on.

Among them, the magnetic interface instrument is divided into: reed tube type magnetron interface instrument, magnetostrictive interface instrument and other forms.

Interface level measurement using Magnetostrictive interface instrument

A rigid tube or flexible tube leads from the top to the bottom of the tank, and the float with magnetic steel moves up and down along the wave guide with the liquid surface.

During the measurement, the current pulse excites a stress pulse on the waveguide in the tube where the magnetic float is located. Propagate along the waveguide to the measuring part in the top electronic box at the speed of sound. Is converted into electrical pulses.

The position of the liquid level can be determined based on the propagation time of the stress pulse.

If there is a second float, choose the relative density appropriately. Make it float on the oil-water interface. Then the position of the oil-water interface can be measured at the same time.

Interface level measurement using Reed switch level sensor

The reed tube type magnetic control interface instrument is also called the magnetic float ball level gauge.

This type of interface instrument was used earlier in the oil field, and now there are more problems.

The measurement principle is extremely simple. Attach a circuit board consisting of a reed switch and resistors. The length is determined by the height of the measured medium.

Put it into a stainless steel tube, as the magnetic float sleeved outside the steel tube moves with the liquid surface, the magnetic force will attract the corresponding dry reed tube. The resistance value of the output terminal of the circuit board also changes accordingly.

According to the density of the measured crude oil. Appropriately match magnetic floats with different relative densities. The liquid level and interface can be measured.

Know more about: Continuous Float Level Sensor & Switches

Interface level measurement using Shortwave

The meter is based on the theory of medium absorption of short waves. Electric energy is radiated into the oil-water medium in the form of an emulsion in the form of electromagnetic waves. The content of the two media is detected based on the difference in the electric energy absorbed by the oil and water.

The dielectric constant of oil is about 2.3, while that of water is about 80. There is a great difference between the two.

The oil-water interface is detected by measuring the oil-water content.

Extended reading: Radar Oil Tank Level Sensor

Interface level measurement using Capacitive

Capacitive interface meter uses the difference in electrical conductivity between oil and water media to make the capacitance and the height of the water have a linear relationship. To achieve the purpose of monitoring the oil-water interface.

Nowadays, radio frequency admittance type is used to replace the traditional capacitive interface instrument.

Capacitive Level Sensors can be used for point level detection and continuous level measurement, particularly in liquids. The measuring principle is based on the change of the capacitance in a capacitor. The electrically conductive tank wall and a probe inside of the tank form a capacitor, The capacity changes of which are used to determine the level. This animation shows the measuring principle in conductive liquids and non-conductive liquids. The Capacitive Level Sensor can convert the changes of various levels and the height of the liquid level into standard current signals. Level Sensors can also support wireless transmission, RS485 digital communication transmission, etc.

Interface level measurement using Servo Level Meter

Servo Level Meter is a high-precision measuring instrument that measures the level of liquid level with microelectronic technology and servo motor drive technology.

Servo Level Meter can carry out routine and accurate measurement and signal transmission of liquid level, interface level and density of the measured medium. It also has functions such as temperature transmission. It can meet the requirements of storage tank inventory management, loss control cost saving and safe operation.

Servo Level Meter is explosion-proof design and has strong expandability. It can be widely used in a variety of flammable and explosive places. It is an ideal choice for liquid level measurement in storage tanks in the fields of petroleum and petrochemical, electric power, medicine, and food.

Single Servo Level Meter: It can realize real-time oil tank level, boundary level measurement display and remote transmission display.

Servo Level Meter is equipped with a multi-point thermometer: it can realize the temperature measurement of the oil tank’s liquid level, boundary level, and different point heights on site.

Servo Level Meter is equipped with a multi-point thermometer and a tank side display: it can measure and display the liquid level, boundary level and temperature of the oil tank at different heights on site.

Explore Oil and Gas Flow Meters

Interface level measurement using DP transmitter

Differential pressure (DP) transmitters are used to measure the interface of two fluids with different specific gravities. This measurement can be made with or without a distal seal. It is important that the height must be large enough to create a reasonable DP between the two specific gravity limits.

Suppose the measuring H distance is 1.2m, the density of oil is 0.7, and the density of water is 1.0. The pressure guiding pipe on the high and low pressure side is filled with water as a sealing liquid. Find the range of the differential pressure transmitter.

Solution:

Differential pressure at the lowest water level: P=(ρoil×g×H)-(ρwater×g×H)

=(0.7×9.8×1.2)-(1.0×9.8×1.2)=-3.528Kpa

Differential pressure at the highest water level: P=(ρwater×g×H)-(ρwater×g×H)

=(1.0×9.8×1.2)-(1.0×9.8×1.2)=0Kpa

The range of the transmitter is: -3.528Kpa to 0 Kpa

Quick calculation of range: (ρ water-ρ oil)×g×H=3.528Kpa

Note: This algorithm is only used for working conditions with obvious oil and water layers. It is undesirable if oil and water are miscible to form an emulsified quality.

Read more about: 7 Level Senors for Tank Level Measurement

In oil field production, oil-water separation is an extremely important link in crude oil processing. After the crude oil enters the joint station, it has to go through treatment processes such as sedimentation and power-off. Oil-water interface control is the key to the separation effect.

Nowadays, oilfields generally use special oil-water interface meters to monitor the process. To achieve the purpose of automatic control.

At present, there are many types of oil-water interface instruments. The performance difference is relatively large. Based on the actual situation of the North China Oilfield, the use of the interface instrument is specifically analyzed.

First, give a general introduction to the basic process flow of oilfield production. After the crude oil is extracted, it is sent to the oil production metering station for measurement, and then enters the joint station.

At the joint station, after metering and heating, the crude oil is sent to the primary settling tank. The crude oil in the primary sedimentation tank is kept at about 60°C all year round.

After sedimentation and separation, it is sent to the intermediate tank. After dehydration pump dehydration. After secondary heating, it enters the secondary settling tank.

The crude oil in the secondary settling tank is kept at about 80℃ all year round. The separated crude oil enters the electric dehydrator for final treatment. After reaching the moisture content standard (0.5%). Finally, it is sent to the refined oil storage tank.

In the whole process, it is necessary to measure the oil-water interface. The accurate monitoring of the oil-water interface is critical to the recovery of water content of oil products and the cost of treatment.

Extended reading: Magnetostrictive Hydraulic Cylinder Position Sensor

Frequently
Asked
Questions

Capacitive level sensor is based on the change of capacitance to perform liquid/level measurement. The level gauge electrode and the container form two electrodes of a capacitor. The capacitance value varies with the container.
The level of the material medium changes and changes, and is converted to the corresponding level output signal.
A basic requirement for measuring liquid/level with a capacitance level meter is: the relative medium of the measured medium.
The electrical constant (the ratio of the dielectric constant of the measured medium to the air) should not change during the measurement.
Extended reading: Amazing Solutions for Continuous Liquid Level Measurement

There are 7 main types of level transmitters that Sino-Instrument offers. Each type of transmitter works in a different way, and makes it useful for different types of processes.

Capacitance Level Transmitters
Hydrostatic Level Transmitters
Magnetic Level Transmitters
Radar Fill Level Transmitters
Ultrasonic Level Transmitter
Guided Microwave Level Transmitters
Liquid Level Transmitters
Extended reading: Oil Level Measurement Solutions for the Oil & Gas Industry

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Extended reading: Water Tank Level Controller

Sino-Inst offers over 10 Solutions for Oil-water Interface Level Measurement. About 50% of these are interface liquid level meters, 40% is the level switches.

A wide variety of Solutions for Oil-water Interface Level Measurement options are available to you, such as free samples, paid samples.

Sino-Inst is a globally recognized supplier and manufacturer of Solutions for Liquid Level Measurement instrumentation, located in China.

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