Hydrostatic Level Measurement

Hydrostatic Level Measurement

Hydrostatic level measurement uses pressure-based sensing to determine liquid level in vessels, tanks, and wells. It is broadly applied in water and other liquid services across multiple industries, including food and water/wastewater, and supports both submersible installation and mounting outside the vessel. This category is often selected when a direct, robust measurement approach is desired for liquids, particularly where surface conditions or vapor space challenges make echo-based methods less attractive.

Within this category, sensor constructions such as the Contite measuring cell and oil-free ceramic measuring cells are used to match the process environment. The Contite element is described as hermetically sealed between membranes, protecting the sensor and electronics against severe moisture and condensate formation. Ceramic sensing elements act as “dry” sensors where process pressure directly deflects a ceramic diaphragm and the pressure-dependent capacitance change is measured, enabling hydrostatic level determination with strong chemical compatibility options.

Primary benefits include ruggedness and plant suitability in wet or condensing environments. The Contite cell is positioned as condensate-proof and insensitive to condensation and aggressive gases, supporting stable performance over time, including after temperature shocks. Ceramic cells provide high chemical compatibility and mechanical stability, and options such as membrane breakage detection extend applicability, including for vacuum-related services. Together, these advantages support dependable level measurement in difficult ambient and process conditions.

Typical applications include level measurement in tanks and wells, wastewater lift stations, freshwater and utility systems, and a range of process vessels where hydrostatic head is an appropriate proxy for level. Depending on installation, transmitters can be submerged for direct head measurement or mounted externally to read bottom pressure. In many plants, hydrostatic measurement becomes a preferred solution where foam, turbulence, or vapor space conditions would otherwise introduce complexity for non-contact technologies.

Successful application requires attention to reference conditions and process variability. Because level is inferred from pressure at a known point, density changes (from temperature or concentration shifts) should be evaluated when tight accuracy is required. Mounting details - capillary routing, cable protection for submersibles, impulse line management, and diaphragm protection - often determine long-term stability. Configuration should reflect vessel geometry, zero/elevation, and the intended alarm/control strategy so the pressure-derived level signal maps cleanly into operations and safeguards.

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