Water and waste industries – more to choose
The VEGA radar family has grown, with the latest VEGAPULS series of units for continuous level measurement. Based on the latest FMCW 80 GHz technology and a specially developed radar level microchip to deliver a lower price than ever before, it represents a real alternative to ultrasonic technology. All this makes it highly economical for those applications found in the water/wastewater sector, or auxiliary applications in process automation. The compact loop-powered radar is offered as two versions: a compact model with a connection housing or with a fixed, sealed cable connection (IP68).
Strong focusing ensures measurement without the jumps
With 80 GHz technology, the non-contact radar beam is much more focused and can be aimed at the process surface with pinpoint accuracy. Narrow shafts or deposits on vessel walls or internals, such as ladders, pipes or pumps, cannot create false signals and therefore eliminates ‘jumps’ in the outputs.
No dead zones for measurement in confined spaces
Another special advantage is these devices have no dead/blanking zone, they can measure right up to the top of the vessel and handle overfills without anti-submersion shields. Typical applications are areas where head-space is limited, like underground assets; CSO’s, sewers, in culverts, underside of bridges, pipes, as well as small tanks or hoppers where capacity is at a premium.
Handles build up
Sensors constantly struggle with the problem of build-up. Using radar technology, the situation is different, a combination of the measuring principle and optimized signal processing enables these radar sensors to ignore interference caused by build up on their antenna system, which means they are immune to the effects of condensation, and highly resistant to dirt and normal build up levels, reducing nuisance outages and cleaning.
Chemicals and EX approval
Storage and buffer tanks supply the chemicals for waste water treatment processes. The new radar sensors can be installed in very confined spaces and small process fittings, or even look through the top of plastic tanks or IBC’s and safely measure the chemicals inside. Even if the medium generates gases, the sensors remain unaffected and deliver
reliable measuring results. They also have an Ex approval for flammable media, so it makes them highly versatile for use in a wide range of applications.
Reliable level independent of process and environmental influences
Ultrasonic sensors are easily affected by ambient conditions due to their physical measuring principle : For example, the transit time of sound changes with temperature, like warming by the sun or varying vapour and gas composition, these can all affect measurement accuracy. Strong winds, rain, or even fog, can dampen the emitted sound waves and restrict their measuring range. Radar sensors, however, are not affected by these conditions – or high pressure or vacuums – they continue with accurate readings.
Low power for remote sites and telemetry
This new compact radar sensor is also ideal for monitoring of river and flood levels. Its measured values are crucial for being able to react quickly and correctly in the event of flooding. Radar sensors can monitor river levels without being affected by temperature stratification/fluctuations, high winds, rain or heavy mist. Even at a distance of 30 meters from the water surface, a radar transmitter delivers level readings with millimetre resolution. They also offer SDI12 and Modbus outputs, and all devices have a sub 10 second start up cycle, making them highly suitable for use with battery powered telemetry outstations and loggers.
Bulk solids level monitoring too
Another example is lime silo level measurement, which is used to stabilize the effluent pH value, this is an ideal application for the new instrument series. All bulk solids can be measured reliably with no effect from dust generated during the filling process. Thanks to strong signal focusing, build up and deposits on the container wall or on the sensor face itself are no problem.
Optional controllers and Bluetooth built in
The radars have an optional controller for local display, extra outputs and level alarms. Both sensors and controllers can be easily and safely adjusted via Bluetooth with a smartphone or tablet – ideal for harsh environments, distancing, operational safety or in Ex areas.
www.vega.com/vegapuls
