Ensuring You Have The Right Level Measurement Sensor
Integral to process control in many industries, level measurement sensors fall into two main types. Discrete sensors mark a single (usually pre-set) liquid or solid volume or level and function as an alert if overfill or underfill conditions occur. Continuous level sensors are more sophisticated and can provide level monitoring of an entire system. They can measure fluid or flowing solids levels within a range, rather than a single point, producing an output that directly correlates to the level a vessel.
The main points to consider in selecting the correct measurement level sensor for your application are whether point level or continuous measurement is required. You should also factor in whether you’re measuring a liquid or solid and the temperature and pressure ranges likely to be encountered. Decide also if you require contact or contact free measurement to eliminate the possibility of contamination or ensure sensor survivability in abrasive or extreme conditions. Non-contact vibrating level switches can be used for solids level detection across a wide density range. A short sound pulse is reflected from the material’s surface and the device calculates the time between transmission and reception to determine level or volume. Sophisticated echo interpretation software filters out false signals.
For even greater sensitivity, Nucleonics measuring devices can monitor level, density, interface and weight and are excellent for non-contact applications. The detection units are fitted externally to the container or processing quipment, can be easily accessed, installed, repaired or removed and have no moving parts to wear or fail. Similar benefits come from employing radar-based technology. These level transmitters create millions of infinitesimal microwave pulses every second.This continuous stream gives real time level information updated and evaluated many times a second. These devices will give accurate data on almost any liquid or solid, whether in storage or during processing. The measurements obtained are not affected by changes which the material could experience, such as such as temperature, pressure, density, or conductivity caused by the process itself and the unit is immune to the effects of vapours or dust.
