A STORAGE TANK’S best friend

This ensures a consistent water supply within the system without overspilling.

“A particular advantage of the VEGAPULS 31 radar sensor for this application is that the sensor can measure levels in the plastic tanks from the outside through the tank wall. Another plus is that it can be calibrated remotely, which is necessary due to the height of the tanks,” adds Petersen.

The VEGAPULS radar sensor range is compact, and specifically designed for the water and wastewater industry. Certain sensors within the range have an IP68K rating and can be fully submersed in liquid.

Ultrasonic versus radar technology

The VEGAPULS sensor range uses radar technology instead of ultrasonic. Compared to ultrasonic measuring instruments, radar sensors are unaffected by temperature fluctuations, vacuum or high pressures, and are insensitive to contamination. The 80 GHz radar sensors also have good signal focusing. This makes it easier to separate measurement and interference signals – the measurement is much easier and more accurate.

“Today, radar sensors can be found in all areas of everyday life, from simple motion detectors for door openers to complex distance sensors in vehicles. However, the requirements for industrial level measurement differ considerably. The radar microchip newly developed by VEGA has been specially optimised for the requirements of level measurement. Thanks to its small design, very compact sensors are now possible. These are significantly less expensive and can replace the previous ultrasonic sensors in almost all applications,” Petersen concludes.