Radar Level Measurement

Radar Level Measurement

Radar Level – Free Space measurement uses non-contact radar sensors that emit microwave signals toward the product surface and measure level from the signal’s time-of-flight and reflection behavior. Because the energy travels through the vapor space and reflects off the surface, the method provides continuous level measurement in both liquids and solids without wetted contact. Modern implementations span multiple frequencies and antenna designs to match vessel geometry and process conditions.

Radar’s benefits include high accuracy, long-term stability, and low maintenance due to the absence of moving parts and minimal process contact. It remains reliable across wide ranges of pressure and temperature and is generally insensitive to changes in gas composition compared with acoustic methods. Narrow-beam, higher-frequency options support challenging installations such as small nozzles, tall tanks, and vessels with internal structures by improving echo discrimination.

Engineering considerations include managing foam, heavy condensation on the antenna, and low-reflectivity surfaces that can reduce echo strength. Antenna selection (horn, rod, lens, etc.) and mounting geometry (nozzle length, standpipe use, aiming) are central to achieving a clean echo profile. In solids, dust and angled repose surfaces can introduce scattering, so setup often includes echo mapping, false-echo suppression, and careful placement away from fill streams.

Typical applications include chemical and petrochemical storage, tank farms, process vessels, water and wastewater basins, and solids silos for powders and granulates. Radar is often selected for corrosive or hygienic services where non-contact measurement reduces contamination risk and maintenance burden. It also supports inventory management and process control where stable continuous measurement is required over large measuring ranges.

System integration commonly uses 4–20 mA with digital communications and/or fieldbus, supporting remote commissioning, diagnostics, and echo-curve evaluation. Functional-safety variants are used for overfill prevention strategies, and device health information can be incorporated into asset management programs. Proper specification aligns frequency/antenna with vessel constraints, product reflectivity, and environmental conditions such as condensation and dust.

Miller Mechanical Specialties, an exclusive authorized representative of sales and service for Endress+Hauser.