Radar vs ultrasonic level measurement
Level measurement is essential in tanks, vessels, silos and process equipment across industrial facilities. EECG's instrumentation portfolio includes radar, ultrasonic and capacitance level measurement technologies.
What is a level transmitter?
A level transmitter measures the level of material inside a tank, vessel, silo or other process equipment. Depending on the technology, level instruments can measure liquids, solids, powders and granular materials. Reliable level measurement helps prevent tank overflow, empty-running equipment, production interruptions and incorrect inventory readings.
How does a radar level transmitter work?
Radar level measurement uses electromagnetic waves to determine the distance between the instrument and the surface of the material. EECG's Endress+Hauser portfolio includes radar level transmitters designed for top-down installation across industrial applications, including liquids, solids, process tanks, silos and challenging process environments.
How does an ultrasonic level transmitter work?
Ultrasonic level measurement uses sound waves. The instrument sends an ultrasonic signal toward the material surface and determines the distance based on the returning signal. EECG's portfolio includes ultrasonic level measurement for liquids and solids.
Comparison table
| Factor | Radar | Ultrasonic |
|---|---|---|
| Measurement principle | Electromagnetic waves | Sound waves |
| Liquids | Suitable for many applications | Suitable for many applications |
| Solids | Can be suitable | Can be suitable |
| Vapour | Often advantageous | Can affect measurement |
| Foam | Application dependent | Can affect signal |
| Pressure | Suitable for many pressurised applications | Application dependent |
| Temperature | Wide range depending on model | Temperature compensation required |
This table is a general comparison; the exact suitability depends on the specific instrument and process.
When should you choose radar?
Radar may be considered when the application involves vapour, pressure, high temperatures, challenging process conditions, solids or long measurement ranges. The exact radar technology should be selected according to the process.
When should you choose ultrasonic?
Ultrasonic measurement can be considered for suitable open or closed tanks and applications involving liquids or solids, providing a non-contact solution where process conditions are compatible with ultrasonic technology.
Applications by industry
Water and wastewater
Storage tanks, treatment tanks, pumping stations and reservoirs.
Cement plants
Storage silos, material bins, process vessels and dust-handling systems. Dust and material properties should be considered during technology selection.
Chemical plants
Chemical applications may involve pressure, temperature, vapour and aggressive media, so the complete process environment must be understood.
Level measurement in Raipur and Chhattisgarh
Industrial plants around Raipur, Bhilai, Korba, Bilaspur and Raigarh use tanks, vessels and storage systems across multiple industries. The correct level transmitter can improve process monitoring and inventory management.
Conclusion
Radar and ultrasonic level transmitters are not interchangeable for every application. The right choice depends on material, tank geometry, pressure, temperature, vapour, foam, dust and required measuring range.
Need help specifying instruments, valves or a maintenance contract for your plant? Our engineers can review your process conditions.
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