Level Measurement & Control


New guided radar device deals with measuring obstacles

January 2004 Level Measurement & Control

A sales record of over 20 000 units worldwide since 1998 bears testimony to the fast-growing uptake of guided radar level measurement technology, despite this being a relatively new continuous level measurement methodology. Endress+Hauser has now significantly contributed to the perfection of the young science by introducing a new Levelflex M guided radar level instrument.

Featuring a measuring range of up to 35 m and a dielectric constant from 1,6 epsilom, the Levelflex M is capable of solving complex liquid application quandaries. One such obstacle that poses no problem to the new innovation is foam formation in measuring tanks. Levelflex M measures level in bulk solids and liquids according to the physical principle of radar pulse technology, based on time domain reflectometry (TDR).

A brief electromagnetic pulse is induced onto the probe or rod at nanosecond speed via an antenna mechanism. This results in 'packages of energy' running along the probe at close to the speed of light, each with a diameter of 30 cm. As the pulse meets the product surface, the characteristic impedance changes. Part of the transmitted pulse is reflected in dependence on the dielectric constant of the medium and scanned by a high-frequency sampler. The distance between the process connection and the product surface in the silo is calculated by the time elapsed between the signal and the reflected pulse. Since the radar pulses are guided along the rod, the measurement is not influenced by baffles. This greatly extends the range of applications of time-of-flight methods for liquids and solves the problem that foam has often represented to radar and ultrasonic measuring devices.

A further advantage to the new Endress+Hauser device is that, with a coax probe, media can be detected at a dielectric constant of only 1,4, making it suitable for complicated container geometries and turbulent medium surfaces.

Uniquely, Levelflex M represents signal progression as an envelope curve directly on the instrument display. This is a novelty for purposes of a plausibility check. The operating tool (time-of-flight) is free of charge and facilitates simple commissioning, diagnosis and detailed measuring point documentation directly at the control room. The picture shows Endress+Hauser's new Levelflex M guided radar level instrument.

For more information contact Grant Joyce, Endress+Hauser, 011 262 8000.



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