Submersible Level Sensor: How They Work

A very common liquid level sensor used to measure bulk chemicals in a tank is the submersible level transmitter.  The head pressure of the liquid, which is the pressure that is placed on the sensor by the weight of the liquid, is measured in order to determine how well it is working. The force that is exerted on the diaphragm of the sensor is caused by the head pressure of the liquid.

Ceramic material is used in the manufacture of diaphragms that are used in plastic submersible sensors.

The submersible level sensor is intended to be completely immersed in the medium and is therefore normally installed at the very bottom of the storage tank.

Various liquids, or liquids with varying concentrations, each exert their own unique force, which is referred to as their “specific gravity.” The specific gravity of water is always 1.0. Every submersible level sensor has its own range, which is calibrated relative to the volume of water. For every one (1) foot of liquid water column, water or H2O produces a force equal to 2.31 pounds per square inch (PSI). Therefore, a submersible level sensor with a range of 10 PSI would be able to measure an equivalent depth of water of 23.1 feet.

The expanded range of the submersible level sensor would be reduced by one-half if the chemical or medium being tested had a specific gravity of 2. 23.1/2 = 11.55 ft.

In a similar manner, the range would be expanded if the liquid medium had a density that was lower than that of water. S.G. equals 0.5, so dividing 23.1 by 0.5 results in a new range of 46.2 feet.

There are a number of distinct sensing diaphragm technologies that can be found in submersible level sensors. One of the more common methods is called capacitance, and it involves the utilization of an electrode in order to monitor variations in the electrical capacitance of a diaphragm that is brought about by changes in the liquid level.

Submersible level sensors almost always have a signal output in the range of 4-20mA, which is a common format for an industrial output signal. They offer a high level of precision, are simple to operate, and do not require any programming.

In addition to the technology involving the sensing diaphragm, it is essential to make use of o-ring seals that are chemically resistant in order to guarantee that the sensor is protected from chemicals.

Integral weights are essential for plastic sensors because they assist in maintaining the sensor in the appropriate position within the liquid, which is at the base of the container.

PVC, CPVC, PP, PVDF, PTFE Teflon, and 316 stainless steel are some of the materials that are used in the manufacture of submersible level sensors.

PVC and CPVC are two types of plastic that are frequently utilized in applications involving water and mild chemicals.

PP is utilized in applications that require greater resistance to chemicals as well as higher temperatures.

When great strength and resistance to chemicals are required in a material for a chemical application, PVDF is a good choice.

Teflon, often known as PTFE, is a material that is utilized in harsh chemical environments.

In applications where corrosion resistance is required, 316 Stainless Steel is employed. Two examples of these kinds of applications are sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide. The ceramic-sensing diaphragm is damaged by both of these substances.

A submersible level sensor is a device that is used to measure the level of liquid in a tank or other container by measuring the head pressure of the liquid while sitting at the bottom of the tank. This is accomplished by measuring the height to which the liquid has been displaced from its original position.

They offer a high level of precision, are simple to operate, and do not require any programming. When making plastic sensors, it is essential to employ o-ring seals that are chemically resistant and to incorporate inherent weight. PVC, CPVC, PP, PVDF, PTFE Teflon, and 316SS are some of the materials that are used in the production of submersible-level sensors. These materials are adaptable to a variety of diverse uses.

Learn more about level sensors

Please contact us to discuss your application