Liquid level measurement is integral to many applications, ranging from hydraulic fluids, diesel fuel tanks, and water and wastewater, to biohazards and even deionised or potable water.
The problem is finding a method with guaranteed accuracy that can address a wide range of measurement scenarios and challenges.
Some of the most common challenges in liquid level measurement are small vessels, internal obstructions and poorly reflective liquids.
Addressing these challenges requires a device that can effectively measure from the outside of a vessel, no matter what the chemical composition of the liquid, and despite constant changes in level.
For this application, non-contact radar level sensors offer the most accuracy and ease of use.
One of the main methods these instruments use is FMCW radar, which works by sending out a microwave signal that bounces off the product surface and returns to the gauge.
A transmitter measures the time delay between the transmitted and received echo signal, and then the on-board microprocessor uses this information to calculate the distance.
While there are a range of radar level sensors on the market, the VEGAPULS 64 is the first radar level sensor for liquids measuring at a frequency of 80GHz.
Why is this important? Because the higher the dynamic range of a radar sensor, the higher the measurement certainty and the wider the range of applications that the sensor can be used for.
Until now, a radar sensor with a transmission frequency of 26GHz and an 80mm diameter antenna had a beam angle of approximately 10°. With the same size of antenna, the VEGAPULS 64 has a beam angle of only 3°.
This allows considerably better focusing of the radar beam, which means the sensor can be used even in vessels with internal installations or heavy build up on the walls, as its focused microwave beam simply avoids these obstacles.
The sensor’s high dynamic range also means that poorly reflective liquids are no longer a concern; it promises reliable measurement even with surface foam, turbulent product surfaces and condensation or buildup on the antenna.
According to VEGA, the VEGAPULS 64 offers the smallest antenna on the market, making it suitable for use with small storage or process vessels in a wide range of industrial sectors.