Hydrostatic Level

Hydrostatic Level

Hydrostatic level measurement is a continuous level method for liquids that uses the relationship between hydrostatic head and pressure. A pressure sensor measures the head at a defined point - often near the bottom of a vessel, sump, or well - and scales it into level (and, when required, volume or mass) using density and reference conditions. The method performs well in open or closed containers and remains dependable when foam or surface turbulence complicates top-mounted level technologies.

Devices may be mounted to a vessel or installed as submersible probes for wells and basins. Endress+Hauser’s hydrostatic portfolio includes Deltapilot and Waterpilot devices for both approaches, with measuring-cell options such as the condensate-resistant Contite cell or capacitive, oil-free ceramic cells. The Contite element is hermetically sealed between diaphragms to protect the sensor and electronics from severe moisture and condensate, and it is designed to be insensitive to condensation and aggressive gases.

Benefits are tied to signal integrity under moisture, condensate, and temperature cycling. The condensate-proof Contite measuring cell supports high reproducibility and long-term stability even after temperature shocks. Ceramic-cell variants provide strong chemical compatibility and mechanical robustness through ultra-pure ceramic construction, and robust ceramic membranes can include membrane breakage detection and suitability for vacuum applications.

Typical applications include water and wastewater tanks, lift stations, wet wells, and distribution storage, plus environmental monitoring in wells, dams, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. In process and hygienic service, hydrostatic measurement covers batch and continuous tanks, day tanks, and CIP-related vessels, and it supports interface or density-related calculations when paired pressures and process data are available.

Implementation success depends on correct handling of density and reference pressure. Vented (gauge) designs require a reliable atmospheric reference - especially for submersible probes - while sealed (absolute) or differential arrangements are used for pressurized vessels. Overpressure margins, sensing-point protection from abrasion or coating, and calibration to level or strapping tables help keep the measurement stable across operating modes.

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