Navigating the Complexities of Ultrasonic Level Measurement

Ultrasonic level gauges are a cornerstone in the precise measurement of liquid levels across various industries, from petroleum and chemicals to pharmaceuticals and power generation. However, the accurate use of these sophisticated instruments is not without its challenges. This blog aims to demystify the complexities involved in the proper utilization of ultrasonic level gauges, covering common issues like stirring effects, foam interference, steam and mist impacts, blind zones, and the influence of pressure and temperature. Our goal is to provide insightful solutions and best practices to enhance the reliability and accuracy of your ultrasonic level measurements.

1. Mitigating Stirring Effects on Ultrasonic Level Gauges

The precision of ultrasonic level gauges can be significantly impacted by the agitation of liquids. To counter this, consider reducing the speed of the agitator and positioning the probe away from the mixing center. Furthermore, the installation of static pipes can effectively mitigate the influence of agitation on liquid level measurements.

2. Addressing Foam Interference in Ultrasonic Level Gauges

Foam presence often poses challenges in liquid level measurement using ultrasonic level gauges. Foam types—dry, wet, neutral, and heavy—react differently to ultrasonic waves. Dry and wet foams reflect ultrasonic waves, thus not affecting measurements. However, neutral foam absorbs and diffuses these waves, causing unstable echoes and potentially large measurement errors, especially with thick foam layers.

3. Counteracting Steam and Mist in High-Temperature Environments

In high-temperature settings, the generation of vapor or mist can interfere with ultrasonic level gauges. Vapor, being lighter than air, rises and forms a layer that absorbs and scatters ultrasonic pulses. This effect can be diminished by installing a static tube to ensure more accurate measurements.

4. Understanding and Managing the Blind Zone in Ultrasonic Level Gauges

The blind zone in ultrasonic level gauges is akin to the human eye's blind spot: objects too close cannot be accurately perceived. For precise measurement, ensure that the highest point of the measured level is outside this blind zone.

5. The Impact of Pressure and Temperature on Ultrasonic Level Gauges

As sound waves, ultrasound cannot propagate in a vacuum. Additionally, with rising temperatures, the maximum pressure capacity of ultrasonic level gauges decreases, affecting measurement accuracy.

About Xi’an Huashun Measuring Equipment Co., Ltd.

Xi’an Huashun Measuring Equipment Co., Ltd. is a pioneer in external ultrasonic liquid level measurement. Our products, including external liquid level gauges and switches, are extensively utilized in various industries such as petroleum, chemical, pharmaceutical, power generation, maritime, and fire safety. Recognized as a qualified supplier for major oil companies like CNPC, Sinopec, and CNOOC, our products offer non-contact measurement without the need for vessel modification, ensuring easy installation and uninterrupted production. They are ideal for accurately measuring toxic substances, strong acids, alkalis, and pure liquids in high-pressure, closed containers.

External level products truly realized non-contact measurement. There is no need to open a hole for the vessel to be measured, easy installation and no impact on production. It can realize the accurate measurement of all kinds of toxic substances, strong acid, strong alkali, and all kinds of pure liquid in the high-pressure closed container.