Tank level senor is a level sensor used to measure the tank level. The liquid level is the level of the liquid in a sealed container (such as a water tank) or an open container (water tank). The instrument that measures the liquid level is called a liquid level sensor, a liquid level gauge or a liquid level transmitter. The liquid level sensor is a kind of level instrument. Hydrostatic, Ultrasonic, Magnetostrictive, Radar, Differential Pressure are commonly choices for tank level measurement. Liquid level sensors have been around for decades for leak detection or level measurement. Common measured medium are: Water, Fuel, Diesel, Gasoline, diesel, liquefied gas, liquid ammonia, etc.
Sino-Inst offers a variety of tank level measurement solutions. If you have any questions, please contact our sales engineers.
Featured Tanks Level Sensors
Tank Level Sensors Types:
Ultrasonic Tank Level Sensor
Ultrasonic fuel tank level sensor, also called non-contact fuel meter. Ultrasonic level sensor measure continuous liquid level, fluid level, or oil level.
Ultrasonic level sensors measure the distance between the transducer and the surface. Using the time required for an ultrasound pulse to travel from a transducer to the fluid surface and back (TOF). These sensors use frequencies in the tens of kilohertz range; transit times are ~6 ms/m. The speed of sound (340 m/s in air at 15 degrees C, 1115 fps at 60 degrees F) depends on the mixture of gases in the headspace and their temperature.
Ultrasonic sensors work without the need to touch the medium being measured. Ultrasonic sensors are ideal for difficult or corrosive liquids such as acids, wastewater, and others. Ultrasonic level sensors are also ideal for continuous level measurement. While float switches and other sensors are adept at measuring when liquid levels are above or below a certain point. The nature of ultrasonic level measurement is such that levels can be sensed and displayed in real-time.
More about Ultrasonic level measurement
Features of Ultrasonic Tank Level Sensor：
- Non-contact – nothing touches the liquid
- Easy to install at the top of the tank into standard fittings
- Use indoors or outside, in metal or plastic tanks
- Connects to other industrial equipment
- Measures a wide variety of liquids and liquid environments
- Accessories to display, alarm, and control liquid levels
- Wireless option sends tank levels to a LAN or the cloud
- MRO & OEM tank setup duplication without re-calibration
Read more about: Ultrasonic Tank Level Sensor-External Mounted
Magnetostrictive Level Transmitters for Tank level measurement
Magnetostrictive level transmitter, in-tank liquid level transmitter, is a continuous magnetic level gauge. The magnetostrictive level sensor measure the level of fluid in the vessel. By detecting the level of the magnets contained within the float and then transmits the measurement back to the control system.
Magnetostrictive liquid level transmitter is a kind of liquid level sensor. But it uses the principle of magnetostrictive operation internally. And combines modern electronic technology to measure the time value between pulse waves to achieve the purpose of accurately measuring the liquid level . The magnetostrictive liquid level meter works with waveguide pulses. During the work, the measured displacement is determined by measuring the time of the start pulse and the end pulse, so the measurement accuracy is high.
Features of Magnetostrictive Level Transmitters:
- High Accuracy
- High Reliability
- No calibration required
- No Maintenance
- Simultaneous Measurement of Multiple Process Conditions:
-Product Level
-Interface Level
-Temperature
-Volume - No Scheduled Maintenance or Recalibration
- Field Repairable
- Inherent Accuracy ±0.039” (±1 mm)
- 200 Point Strap Table
- API Temperature Corrected Volumes
- Integral Display
- Hazardous Area Certified
- Intrinsically Safe
Hydrostatic level transmitters
Submersible level sensor, Pressure and DP level transmitter are all hydrostatic measurement devices.
Also known as pressure level transmitters, these transmitters help in determining fluid contents of a container, by measuring the pressure of the resting body of the fluid within it. The greater the force of liquid, the greater the volume of fluid.
The pressure type liquid level gauge is a pressure sensor that measures the liquid level. Including static pressure level gauge, liquid level transmitter, pressure transmitter and so on. The measured static pressure of a liquid is proportional to the height of the liquid. And the static pressure is converted into an electrical signal. After temperature compensation and linear correction, it is converted into a standard electrical signal (4-20mA / 1 ～ 5VDC). Hydrostatic liquid level sensor is suitable for liquid level measurement of various media in systems and industries. Such as petrochemical, pharmaceutical, water supply and drainage, environmental protection and other systems. The exquisite structure, simple adjustment and flexible installation methods provide convenience to use.
Read more about: Submersible Level Transmitter-Straight Rod Insertion
The differential pressure level gauge is a meter that calculates the liquid level (differential pressure) in a tank. By measuring the pressure difference at two different points of the container. For example, a 500 mm water column corresponds to a pressure of 500 mmH20. In many applications, however, there is additional vapor pressure above the liquid. Vapor pressure is not part of the level measurement. So impulse tubes and capillaries with seals are needed to counteract its presence.Capillary columns and sealing systems solve many installation problems with impulse tubes. These systems include an external sensing diaphragm. This diaphgram connected to a differential pressure transmitter via an oil-filled capillary column. The change in pressure causes a displacement of the diaphragm. So that the pressure is transmitted to the transmitter through the oil-filled capillary. The oil-filled capillary system is carefully welded and manufactured. So it is a reliable sealing system. This type of structure eliminates leak points and blockages that may occur in the impulse tube.
Radar Level Sensors
Radar level transmitter, also called Radar level gauge. Non-contact Continuous level measurement in liquids and solids with free space radar sensors. Non-contacting radar, based on microwave technology, detects only surfaces that reflect energy. These transmitters work on the principle of a radar by using radio wave emissions. Mounted at the top of a tank filled with a liquid. The transmitter sends a radar signal into the liquid, and receives a reflection of the signal. The transmitters then analyze the current fill level of the tank based on the time taken by the transmitted signal to return.
Operating Principle of Non-Contacting Radar Level Sensors/Gauges (Unguided Wave)
Extended reading: Radar Liquid Level Sensor|Corrosive, steam, volatile liquids
Radar Level Sensor Features
- Non-contact, continuous level measurement over larger ranges
- Unaffected by sludge and biomass, dust, foam, oil, grease and other coatings, uneven surfaces, turbulence, pressure, and vacuum
- Single frequency radar level sensors for liquid sensing, dual frequency radar level sensors for level measurement of aggregates, gravel, sand, coal, asphalt, and other solids
- Simple mounting and push-button calibration
Capacitance Level Transmitter for tank level measurement
Capacitance level detectors, also known as Capacitance level transmitter. RF Capacitance Level Transmitter offers continuous and point level detection. In liquids and solids with capacitance probes. These transmitters use liquid stored in a tank or container as a dielectric medium between two or more electrodes. The energy capacity of the capacitor circuit increases when there is more liquid, and decreases if there is less liquid. Measuring the variations in the capacitance value, capacitance level transmitters calculate level of the tank.
Features of SI700 RF capacitance level transmitter:
- Capacitive level measurement enables measurement without blind spots over the entire sensor length
- Fully insulated capacitive sensors also measure aggressive liquids
- Cost-effective measurement for trouble-free and maintenance-free operation
Magnetic Level Gauges
These gauges are the preferred replacement for the sight glasses. They are similar to float devices, but they communicate the liquid surface location magnetically. The float, carrying a set of strong permanent magnets, rides in an auxiliary column (float chamber) attached to the vessel by means of two process connections. This column confines the float laterally so that it is always close to the chamber’s side wall. As the float rides up and down the fluid level a magnetized shuttle or bar graph indication moves with it. Showing the position of the float and thereby providing the level indication. The system can work only if the auxiliary column and chamber walls are made of non-magnetic material.
Sino-Inst provides float designs optimized for the specific gravity of the fluid being measured. Whether butane, propane, oil, acid, water, or interfaces between two fluids, as well as a large selection of float materials. This means the gauges can handle high temperatures, high pressures and corrosives fluids. Oversized float chambers and high-buoyancy floats are available for applications where buildup is anticipated.
Chambers, flanges and process connections can be made from engineered plastics. such as Kynar or exotic alloys such as Hastelloy C-276. Special chamber configurations can handle extreme conditions. Such as steam jacketing for liquid asphalt, oversized chambers for flashing applications, temperature designs for liquid nitrogen and refrigerants. Numerous metals and alloys ( titanium, Incoloy and Monel ) are available for varying combinations. Like high-temperature, high-pressure, low-specific-gravity and corrosive-fluid applications. Magnetic level gauges can also be outfitted with magnetostrictive and guided-wave radar transmitters. This allow the gauge’s local indication to be converted into 4-20 mA outputs and digital communication. That can be sent to a controller or control system.
Float level transmitters for tank level meaurement
Float level gauge is mainly composed of magnetic float, sensor and transmitter. When the magnetic float ball changes with the liquid level and floats up and down along the catheter. The magnetic steel in the float ball attracts the reed switch at the corresponding position in the sensor. Which changes the total resistance (or voltage) of the sensor. The transmitter then converts the changed resistance (or voltage) signal into a 4-20mA current signal output.
The float ball level gauge uses a magnetic float ball as a measuring element. Which makes the resistance in the sensor change linearly through magnetic coupling. The smart converter converts the resistance change into a 4-20mA standard current signal. It can display the percentage of liquid level, the current of 4 ~ 20mA and the value of liquid level. Remote transmission control room can realize automatic detection, control and recording of liquid level. The instrument is suitable for the sewage treatment of petroleum, chemical, power, light industry and pharmaceutical industries. And the measurement of the medium level in various atmospheric and pressure vessels. It is especially ideal for the liquid level measurement of underground storage tanks and storage tanks.
Features of Float level transmitters:
- Suitable for the measurement of the liquid level and interface of the liquid medium in the container. In addition to on-site instructions, it can be equipped with remote transmitters, alarm switches and complete detection functions.
- Innovative indication, intuitive reading, eye-catching, observing the direction of the indicator can be according to user needsChange the angle.
- Large measuring range, not limited by the height of the storage tank.
- The indicating mechanism is completely isolated from the measured medium, with good sealing, high reliability and safe use.
- Simple structure, easy installation, easy maintenance, corrosion resistance, no power supply required, explosion-proof. At the lower limit, the float floats upright on the water.
Extended reading: Diesel fuel tank level gauges & indicators
Extended reading: GWR Solid Level Sensor-Cement silo-Ash powder measure
Featured Continuous level sensors
Water Storage Tank Level Sensor
The water level sensor of your water tank is an essential component. If not repaired or replaced, a sensor can become damaged over time and fail entirely. Too much water can cause a malfunction and too little water means inadequate water pressure. Either way, repairing or replacing holding tanks is an expensive task you shouldn’t have to undertake because of sub-par sensors.
With Sino-Inst’s water tank level sensors, there’s nothing to break down or rust and our models have a 99% success rate!
In the high unlikely event that you experience any issues with your product, call us and we’ll replace or repair it immediately at no charge.
Read more about our water tank level sensors and control systems.
Tank Level Measurement Environments
Water & Mild Liquid Tank Level Measurement
Sino-Inst’s Tank level sensors easily handle these liquids. Rugged construction. Corrosion resistant materials. A wide environmental operating range and a liquid-tight IP68 ingress rating make them ideal for indoor and outdoor use. Even in salt water and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) environments.
Products are offered in a variety of distance ranges to accommodate tanks. Ranging from 6 in (15 cm) to 50 feet (15.2m), with various mounting threads and accessories available.
Chemical Tank Level Measurement
Sino-Inst Tank level sensors expand the range of environments in which our sensors operate. Some common chemicals can damage or corrode sensor materials, even 316 stainless steel. Transducer elements and bonding adhesives are also susceptible. Our tank level sensors avoid these problems by using a continuous injection molded housing of Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), a highly non-reactive thermoplastic that resists solvents, acids and hydrocarbons.
Tank level sensors have both top and bottom mounting threads and include a potted-in, PUR-jacketed, UV resistant cable. Verify your chemicals and operating temperatures with this compatibility chart. All ToughSonic sensors include analog, switch and data interfaces and compatible setup software, included at no charge.
Extended reading: Corrosive Liquid Chemical Level Sensor in Chemical Processing
Tank Level Measurement in Hazardous Areas
European hazardous area ATEX approved sensors for liquid level measurement in intrinsically safe installations on petrochemical, pharmaceutical, landfill and sewage treatment sites. Find ATEX approved liquid level sensors for use in zone 0 and 1 classed hazardous areas where volatile gas and vapour maybe present.
Tank Level Sensor Industries & Applications
Continuous level transmitters are versatile in monitoring liquid level needs. They can monitor water, diesel, lube oils and fuels, as well as various chemical and petrochemical liquids.
Storage tanks are widely used in the fluid industry to store raw materials, finished products, and intermediate products. They have an irreplaceable role in ensuring the safe production of equipment, energy-saving and emission reduction and improving the overall management level. National strategic reserves are also inseparable from various types of Storage tanks.
Industrial storage tanks are generally steel storage tanks. Carbon steel, low-temperature steel, stainless steel, and other materials are selected according to the characteristics of the storage medium, storage temperature, pressure, and other parameters. Other materials such as FRP and plastic are not considered due to fire and pressure resistance.
Common liquid level sensor application tank level monitoring:
- Chemical injection
- Hydraulic and lube oil tanks
- Drilling fluid (mud) tank monitoring
- Liquid level monitoring during transfer
- Food and Beverage
- HVAC
- Medical
- Printing (Ink Handling Systems)
- Off-Highway Vehicles
- Semiconductor
Extended reading: Types of Fuel-Diesel Level Sensors
Hydrostatic pressure for level measurement
Extended reading: Hydrostatic Pressure Transmitter
How Tank Level Sensors Work?
The level of the liquid medium in the container is called the liquid level. And the instrument that measures the liquid level is called the liquid level transmitter. Level transmitter is a kind of level instrument.
There are two types of level transmitters, one is continuous and the other is point-off. The continuous level transmitter is a real-time monitor of the height of the liquid in the container. The point type, which generally takes two points, high and low, and outputs an alarm signal when the medium in the container reaches these two points. The types of liquid level transmitters are very wide. Specific include magnetic flap liquid level gauge, tuning fork vibration type, differential pressure type, pressure type. Ultrasonic, magnetostrictive liquid level gauge, magnetic flap, radar, and so on.
Levels of media such as: water, viscous fluids, and fuels, or dry media such as bulk solids and powders can be measured using the transmitter.
Level measurement transmitters are used in a myriad of applications that require level measurement within containers or tanks. These transmitters often find their application in material handling, food and beverage, power, chemical, and water treatment industries.
Technical Support
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Q&A
Sino-Inst offers over 10 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.
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Wu Peng, born in 1980, is a highly respected and accomplished male engineer with extensive experience in the field of automation. With over 20 years of industry experience, Wu has made significant contributions to both academia and engineering projects.
Throughout his career, Wu Peng has participated in numerous national and international engineering projects. Some of his most notable projects include the development of an intelligent control system for oil refineries, the design of a cutting-edge distributed control system for petrochemical plants, and the optimization of control algorithms for natural gas pipelines.