Radar level sensors

Control Components has introduced the Detector line of micropower impulse radar (MIR) liquid level sensors. Gems Detector MIR sensors are now available in two series: MIR-800 Series sensors feature solid waveguide rods, while the MIR-900 Series sensors feature fully encapsulated, flexible rods.

Each series offers specific advantages. Detector sensors are effective for measuring any liquid with a dielectric value equal or greater than 3.0 and are particularly effective in media that often frustrate other measuring technologies.

Foaming liquids, viscous and coating fluids, slurries and other particulated liquid media can all be measured by Micropower Impulse Radar technology employed in Detector sensors.

Detector sensors use MIR, or time domain reflectometry (TDR), to measure the distance to the surface of the tank contents and output a 4-20 mA signal proportional to liquid level.

MIR-800 sensors feature solid waveguides to reach within < 1 mm of a tank bottom; especially beneficial when controlling expensive fluids, where undetected inventory beneath common sensors represents costly waste.

MIR-900 Series sensors are longer, handling tank depths to 3.6 m, and feature a flexible dual rod waveguide that is completely encapsulated with Tefzel.

This low-dielectric material resists buildup and provides a bridge between the rods that facilitates accurate wave reflection, even when they become coated. Two standard lengths are available, which may be trimmed to size to fit tanks 3.6 m deep or less. A stainless steel weight, fitted at the guide's end, maintains guide rigidity.