There are many application obstacles for level sensing in harsh chemicals, including things like high temperatures, foam, vapor, and turbulence. At Automation Products Group, Inc. (APG), we have several sensors in our lineup that can monitor harsh chemicals in tanks. The more remote the chemical tank, the more critical sensor selection becomes. You can add communications to any sensor, but you may not be able to respond quickly to a corroded sensor and a leaking tank. Finding the correct sensor for your chemical tanks is important to avoid hazardous situations.
Non-Contact Level Sensors
One of the easiest ways to measure harsh chemicals is to use a non-contact level sensor. Ultrasonic and radar sensors measure without touching the chemical. This makes them ideal for corrosive, reactive, or high-purity applications.
The TRUE ECHO® CR-L radar level sensor is a fantastic fit for monitoring tank levels for chemical mixtures. Its durable PVDF body handles fluctuating temperatures and chemical splashes, making it a long-lasting solution for many chemical tanks.
Ultrasonic sensors and radar sensors can struggle with foam and thick vapors, characteristics that are common with harsh chemicals. For these applications, a direct contact approach can be a better alternative.
Durable Contact Probes
Continuous float level transmitters are a direct contact measurement option that can overcome obstacles such as foamy liquids or thick vapors.
316L stainless steel is compatible with many common chemicals that degrade plastic materials. For this reason, we offer a resistive chain level or magnetostrictive probe. On these units, 316L stainless steel or PVDF is the only material directly contacting the chemical. For certain chemicals that can damage 316L stainless steel, a coated probe level transmitter can be the answer.
But sometimes, you need something even more compact for your tanks. This is where our next option comes in.
Pressure Sensor
If you’re looking for a sensor not affected by foam, vapor, or turbulence while also being easy to install, then you’ll want to consider a pressure sensor as your level transmitter to monitor the chemicals in your tanks.
Compact and durable, submersible pressure sensors reside quietly at the bottom of the tank. They’re popular in tank monitoring for a reason. Pressure drops in tanks can signify a leak, and a leaking tank filled with harsh chemicals can be disastrous. The pressure sensor can detect these pressure drops and signal an alert that the tank is leaking.
APG’s PT-500 submersible pressure sensor is crafted out of 316 stainless steel that protects the electronics inside. If you need something sturdier, APG also offers the PT-503 submersible pressure transmitter with a durable PVDF body. This sensor has monitored leachate ponds in landfills, unbothered by the chemicals lurking there.
Remote Monitoring Solutions
Are your tanks in hard-to-reach places or in areas out of the way? Remote monitoring allows you to track your tank levels without being on-site to do so. Simply pair your sensor with Settler, the online monitoring gateway, for your remote monitoring needs.
Consider All Your Options
Too often, we replace sensors that were installed in the wrong applications. Consider all of your sensor options for your tanks for the best results, whether they’re ultrasonic level sensors, radar level sensors, continuous float level transmitters, or submersible pressure sensors.
If you have any questions about overcoming harsh chemicals—especially in remote locations—feel free to contact us.
WRITTEN BY
Sami T.
Sami Thompson is APG’s Marketing Technical Writer and has been with the company since 2022. With a master’s degree in English from Utah State University and a 40-page thesis publication under her belt, Sami has a demonstrated strong writing background. In her free time, Sami enjoys reading and birdwatching.