The Benefits of Using Level Gauge Measurement Systems

Level gauge measurement is essential whenever a production process uses liquids or small particulates. As technology advances, new types of measurement tools that use radar or ultrasonic frequencies have emerged, but in many cases, level gauge measurement systems are still the best option. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of relying on level gauge measurement systems over other industry options.

Accuracy

While non-contact measurement systems can be accurate, they often need recalibration to ensure they’re providing the correct information. Most level gauge measurement systems are straightforward — for example, float switches are nothing more than a float attached to an arm. It’s the same technology that controls your car’s fuel gauge. Other variables that could affect a non-contact reading, like foaming, don’t influence them. These simple devices can also provide accurate readings in many different substances, from liquids to solids or small particulates without any additional calibrations. That’s something not even guided wave radar sensors can do.

When two liquids of different densities are in the same tank, non-contact systems can’t measure them accurately. Interface sensors could tell you how much total liquid is in the tank, but don’t know where the two different fluids separate or the level gauge of the bottom liquid.

Durability

One of the best things about contact measurement systems is their simplicity. They usually don’t have a lot of moving parts, which means they require less maintenance and are infinitely more durable than non-contact systems. Their simplicity also means if an element does fail, it’s often easy to replace without having to empty the tank or interrupt the supply chain.

This feature is valuable in the process industry, especially if the materials stored in the tank are caustic, corrosive or otherwise too dangerous for human workers to enter to effect repairs. Many industries use acid in various concentrations for a variety of different tasks. Even when empty, an acid tank may be too dangerous for a maintenance worker to enter, even with the proper personal protective equipment.

Customization

Not all measurement systems are equal, but that isn’t a bad thing. Some level gauge measurement systems will only work for liquids, while others can work for liquids, particulate matter and slurries with equal accuracy. These measurement systems are easy to customize for different materials. Many contact measurement systems won’t work well for corrosive or sticky materials — an optical switch, for example, might not work well in oil because the sticky substance will cover the prism and prevent it from transmitting light.

This customization also makes it simpler to connect multiple different types of systems to a single readout so workers can monitor the level gauges remotely without having to make a trip to each tank. If you’ve got containers of oil, acid and water in the same facility, you don’t need to use the same system for each of them, but link them on one readout for ease of monitoring.

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Magnetic Level Gauge Indicators

Magnetic Level Indicators, also referred to as level gauges, consist of a chamber, a magnetic float and a flipper type indicator scale mounted to the side of the chamber. Understanding the operation of the Magnetic level gauge indicator is quite simple. The fluid in the tank seeks its own level inside the chamber.

The magnetic float in the chamber rises and falls with the fluid level gauge. As the Magnetic float rises and falls, it changes the orientation of the flippers on the scale providing a visual level indication. In addition, as the magnetic float rises and falls, it actuates any transmitter or alarm switches that are attached to the side of the gauge.

Magnetic level gauge indicators are custom made based on your requirements. The float construction is determined by the process fluid, pressure, temperature and specific gravity of the fluid. Magnetic level gauge indicators are generally made of 316SS, but can be made from a variety of other materials including CPVC, Kynar, Hastelloy, Monel or other exotic metals. A variety of mounting style options and process connections are available to meet your needs.

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