Product roundup: Level doesn't level off

Vegadif 85 is a universal, differential pressure transmitter for measuring liquids, gases and vapors that comes standard with an additional absolute pressure sensor on the low pressure side, providing the option to measure differential and static pressure simultaneously with one device. Having both available as digital or 4-20mA outputs provides more information for all applications.

Designed with functional safety in mind, Vegadif 85's electronics inside are intrinsically safe and flameproof. It was developed according to IEC 61508 for SIL2, and can be homogeneously redundant for SIL3 applications. It also has an option for Bluetooth communication and display capabilities.

Vegadif 85's compact design uses less oil behind the diaphragms, giving operators a faster reaction time and a measurement accuracy of 0.065% at full scale. It can be configured to meet application needs with multiple measuring ranges from 0.15 psi up to 240 psi. It can also be assembled in different configurations for easier mounting, and has optional brackets and valve manifolds.

Vega Americas

Advanced diagnostics added

Micropilot FMR5X free-space radar and FMP5X Levelflex guided radar level transmitters have added Heartbeat onboard diagnostics and instrument verification that continuously monitors status of mechanical/electromechanical and electronic components in the sensor, and sends alerts when it detects a problem. Alerts are sent in accordance with NAMUR recommendation NE 107 and are displayed at the device. Heartbeat also provides device verification in accordance with industry requirements.    

FMR5X free-space radar level transmitters provide accuracy up to ±2 mm  for level measurement of liquids and ±4 mm for bulk solids products. Multiple FMR5X transmitters can be installed in the same tank without interference among them because their transmitter pulses are statistically coded. FMR5X instruments can measure level or volume with a built-in, 32-point strapping table. Liquids can be measured in metal or plastic vessels up to 131 feet high with standard units, or 197 feet with an enhanced dynamics option.

Levelflex guided radar level transmitters are used for continuous level measurement of liquids, pastes and slurries, and also for interface measurement because it's not affected by changing media, temperature changes, gas blankets or vapors.

Endress+Hauser

Proximity sensors for accuracy

CD34 Series liquid level capacitance sensors detect water-based liquids with a conductivity of 50 mS/cm through non-metallic walls, and automatically account for the thickness of plastic or glass walls to compensate for any residual films, moisture or foam accumulation, while reliably sensing the presence of the liquid to be detected. CD32 has teach-in functions that let it be calibrated to overcome highly conductive, viscous liquids, or tanks with very thin or thick walls. CD34 also has a compact, robust sensor housing with NEMA250 (1, 2, 4, 4x, 5 and 12), IP69K ratings and Ecolab certifications, and comes with a universal bracket for mounting versatility on flat or cylindrical surfaces.

Carlo Gavazzi Inc.
847-465-6100

Proportional control, precise range

Dynatrol CL-10GP proportional level detector controls liquid levels over a precise range by working with EC-103C(G) control unit to activate electro-pneumatic transducers, valve positioners, indicators, controllers or other DC-current devices. CL-10GP achieves precision by is using its high-resolution, proportional output signal, and operates reliably despite varying frequency power supplies or harsh process conditions. CL-10GP is mounted through a ¾-in., half-coupling at the point of desired level detection, eliminating costly flanges, float chamber or fittings, while its control unit can be installed in any convenient location. They run on 50-Hz or 60-Hz power supplies, and are built in accordance with Class I, Group D; Class II, Groups E, F & G; and Class III services.    

Automation Products Inc., Dynatrol division
800-231-2062

Independent TDR measurement

NGR guided-wave level transmitter uses time-domain reflectometry (TDR) that's independent of density, temperature, pressure, humidity or conductivity. It can handle deposit-forming and foaming liquids, so it's ideal for small vessels. NGR reduces costs due to low maintenance and quick commissioning, while its sensing probe, with a maximum length of 78 in. is easily trimmed in the field. It also has intuitive set-up, using four buttons and a digital display. NGR operates in temperatures up to 212 °F and pressures up to 145 psig.

Kobold Instruments Inc.
412-788-2830  

Radar for aggressive media

Type 8136 non-contact, continuous radar level measuring device is available in two versions, including one with an encapsulated horn antenna suitable for level measurement of aggressive liquids in small vessels, and a second with a plastic horn antenna suitable for measurement in open flumes or gauge measurement in waters. They also feature level measurement up to 20 m with 4-20 mA/HART with two wires; adjustability on display, key operation or PC tool with DTM; ATEX approvals; and insensitivity to variations in temperature, pressure, medium/product data and gas layers.

Burkert Fluid Control Systems
949-223-3100

First to comply with API 18.2

Rosemount 3308 guided-wave radar (GWR), wireless level transmitter is reported to be the first standalone, wireless, radar-level device to comply with the API 18.2 standard that provides guidance for crude oil custody transfer from small lease tanks.

An upgraded microwave module makes Rosemount 3308 more tolerant of difficult process conditions and able to deliver more sensitive and repeatable measurements with greater accuracy. API 18.2 requires level transmitters to operate with 1/8 in. (3 mm) resolution and 3/16 in. (4.7 mm) measurement accuracy. When set up in high-performance mode, Rosemount 3308 achieves installed accuracy of 1/4 in. (6.3 mm) required to comply with API 18.2. In standard mode, Rosemount 3308's accuracy has been improved to 1/5 in. (5 mm).

Accuracy can be easily verified in just a few minutes using the Rosemount VeriCase mobile verification tool, which doesn't require a tank’s thief hatch to be opened or any product to be transferred. Opening the thief hatch can cause high concentrations of hydrocarbon gases and vapors to be released, putting worker health at risk, so eliminating this requirement is an important safety improvement.

Emerson Automation Solutions

Ultrasonic sensor for many uses

30GM70 series ultrasonic sensors are easily customized for any application, including in difficult installation conditions with interfering objects, and where parameterization is required without interrupting a process. Versions with rotating or remote transducers provide ideal installation flexibility. Where commissioning brings particular challenges, pulse echoes can be visualized in real time to align the sensor precisely and suppress noise. Diffuse mode sensors are versatile and are perfect for measuring fill levels in tanks and silos. This sensor is also available as the 30GM-IO series diffuse mode sensor, which is a multifunctional solution for a host of applications, including fill level measurement. They're also simple to parameterize, either using buttons on the sensor or via the IO-Link interface. 30GM-IO offers maximum process reliability through direct access to process and diagnostic data.

Pepperl+Fuchs
330-486-0002

Chip-based switches for harsh settings

Allen-Bradley 840E level switches are microprocessor based and designed to withstand harsh conditions and washdown applications such as liquid level monitoring in tanks, containers and pipelines. Available in both AC and DC versions, they're not affected by foam, and are immune to vibration and build-up. 840E features a 316L stainless-steel housing with IP66/67 rating for DC type and IP65 for AC type enclosure. They also provide onsite control via high-visibility status LED.

Rockwell Automation

Interface detection in separation tanks

To eliminate process stream contamination in oil well separation tanks, SIL2-rated FlexSwitch FLT93S flow, level, temperature switch uses advanced thermal dispersion sensing to provide precise level interface detection of oil, gas and water. It's a dual-function, insertion-style instrument that monitors, controls and alarms for flow rates or levels of critical fluid layers such as emulsions, foams, liquids and slurries. Dual 6A relay outputs are standard and assignable to flow, level or temperature. FLT93S operates over a wide setpoint range in hydrocarbon liquids from 0.01 to 5.0 fps (0.003 to 1.5 mps); in gas/air from 0.25 to 120 sfps (0.08 to 37 smps); and in water from 0.01 to 0.3 fps (0.003 to 0.9 mps). Level/interface accuracy is ±0.25 in. (±6.4 mm), and measurement repeatability is ±0.125 in. (± 3.2 mm). The standard FLT93S withstands operating temperatures from -40 to 350 °F (-40 to 177 °C), but an optional configuration is available for temperatures from -100 to 850 °F (-73 to 454 °C). 

Fluid Components International
800-854-1993

Micro-capacitance, silicon sensor for accuracy

FCX level transmitter uses a micro-capacitance silicon sensor that achieves up to ±0.065% accuracy and long-term stability rating of ±0.1% of the upper range limit for 10 years. With a full range of hazardous area approvals such as ATEX, TIIS, FM, built-in RFI filter and lightning arrester, FCX transmitters are reported to provide exceptional performance in various process applications.

Fuji Electric

Two-part pulse, two-wire power

JTR Series guided-wave radar level transmitter uses advanced, echo-wave processing, and features a cost-effective, two-wire power supply to simplify installation; optionally available HART digital communications; built-in display for easy setup; a range of mounting connection sizes and types; 5-mm measurement accuracy with rapid level reading; reduced maintenance with no calibration required and no moving parts; ability to withstand CIP process; dual liquid level interface measurement; and ability to measure sticky and paste-like media.

Aplus Finetek Sensor Inc.
909-598-2488

Guided wave steam probe

Eclipse guided-wave radar (GWR) steam probe incorporates decades of steam application experience in applying level controls to boilers and steam drums. Its innovative probe design includes new Condensation Control Technology (CCT) coupled with Eclipse's original, patented Automatic Steam Compensation (ASC). Eclipse GWR Steam Probe eliminates inaccuracies caused by condensation, so optimal performance can be achieved in power generation, chemical processing, pulp and paper, petroleum refining and other industries. 

Magnetrol International
630-969-4000

Magnetostrictive minimizes downtime

LMT Series magnetostrictive level transmitters has a simple setup that ensures total and/or interface levels are always measured reliably and accurately, which minimizes downtime and maximizes process efficiency and operating profits. LMT Series is available in an LMT100 direct-insertion model and a non-intrusive LMT200 model, and they're mountable on any magnetic level gauge. The result is an accurate, safe, reliable and easy way to maintain level measurement.

ABB Inc.
800-829-6001

Inexpensive, compact, smart and accurate

Sitrans Probe LU240 ultrasonic level measurement transmitter uses field-proven Process Intelligence echo processing that provides reliable readings while still allowing rapid response to actual changes in material levels. To save time and maintenance costs, LU240 features reliable performance, self-cleaning capabilities, and a transparent lid that lets users to observe values directly through it. For applications requiring process temperature data, LU240 provides level and temperature readings. It's also battery and solar-power friendly because of the low start-up current of 3.6 mA and minimum 10.5-V operation.

Siemens

Guided radar gets certified

Centurion Guided Radar continuous level measurement instrument recently added SIL2, high-temperature and high-pressure designs, and most recently achieved explosion-proof, flameproof and dust ignition proof certification from FM Approvals for FM, FM Canada and ATEX standards. Added to its existing IECEx rating, Centurion and the firm's other products now cover all major market areas.

Hawk Measurement
978-304-3000

Indicator with 200° viewing angle

1100 Series magnetic level indicator (MLI) is equipped with one of the widest, most visible indicating flag designs, which can be easily read from 250 ft (76 m). The patented vista indicator uses a curved, polycarbonate lens with flattened ridges on the inside. Light enters through the front of the glass and reflects off the colored flippers. As light leaves the flipper assembly, it's redirected in all directions by the patented lens, which allows a 200° viewing angle.   

1100 Series is an alternative to sight glasses because vessel contents are contained in the float chamber, making it ideal for high-pressure systems. External, point-level switches or continuous level transmitters can be easily incorporated into the system without breaking the pressure boundary or disturbing existing piping. It can also be the heart of a tank instrumentation system by adding other SOR instrumentation, such as 815PT smart pressure transmitter or temperature measurement devices.

SOR Inc.
913-888-2630

Four-in-one measurement

Level Plus Tank Slayer liquid level transmitter is an accurate, flexible, robust liquid level sensor and transmitter that provides four-in-one measurement of product level, interface level, temperature and volume from one process opening. It features measuring length of 62 to 866 in. (1.575-22 m); inherent accuracy of ±1mm; input voltage of 10.5 to 28 Vdc; process temperature of -40 °C (-40 °F) to 125 °C (257 °F); hazardous area rating; and up to 16 temperature points. Once installed and calibrated, there's no requirement for scheduled maintenance or recalibration during its 10-year expected life.

MTS Sensors
800-633-7609

Small beam, dead zone for precision

Optiwave 3500 two-wire, 80-GHz FMCW radar is a hygienic, non-contact level measurement instrument for food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. It features a flush-mounted Peek Lens antenna with a small beam angle and dead zone for precise measurement, even in small, narrow tanks with agitators. It's equally suited for larger tanks, measuring distances of up to 50 m (164 ft).

Krohne Inc.
800-FLOWING (356-9464)

Photoelectric sensor for liquids

Optical, photoelectric, liquid-level sensor from Carlo Gavazzi uses unmodulated, infrared light for detecting liquids, and is fitted with a built-in amplifier. Its transmitter and receiver are completely self-contained in a solid plastic housing designed for mounting onto a container wall. It also features high chemical resistance to most acids and bases, 3/8 pipe tread housing and a Ga-As diode.

Newark element 14
800-463-9275

Loop-powered for continuous

MassaSonic PulStar loop-powered sensors are rugged transmitting modules that use ultrasonics and algorithms to provide accurate, reliable, continuous, non-contact level or distance measurement of fluids, pastes or solid bulk materials at 8 in. (200 mm) to 20 ft (6 m). PulStar L-95 includes diagnostics that retrieve ultrasonic waveforms for analysis, and displays on a computer to aid evaluation of complex installations. They're RoHS compliant, CE certified and IP67 rated, and adjustable for averaging measurement, analog output slope, loss-of-echo time-out and detection sensitivity.

Massa Products Corp.