Emergency generators keep construction sites, data centers, warehouses, government facilities, cell towers, and more operational during severe weather and other power interruptions. These very large generators are fueled by diesel stored in nearby tanks and use continuous float level transmitters to monitor the level of fuel. Automation Products Group, Inc. (APG) and our MPX line of float level transmitters are perfect for situations such as these, monitoring fuel levels efficiently and ensuring uninterrupted operations. These magnetostrictive float level transmitters come in a rigid stem and a flexible stem to cover a variety of applications.
Float level transmitters are extremely accurate. They work by sending electrical pulses down a wire suspended inside the stem of the sensor. When the pulse interacts with the magnetic field from the float traveling up and down the stem, it results in a return signal to the transmitter and identifies the precise position of the float and the liquid surface.
The accuracy of the measurement is a particularly important factor, as tanks used for generators vary in construction, origin, and size. APG’s tank measuring devices use slide fittings, which allow the float level transmitter to move up and down to better match the depth of the tank. Using this fitting lets our customers standardize on a few different probe lengths, rather than customize each order.
Accurate measurement in fuel tanks is crucial. Since the diesel fuel tanks in this application power emergency generators, they need to have a good fuel supply should an emergency strike. Nothing would be worse than an emergency power outage and the generator stalling because it doesn’t have enough fuel in its tank. Users need to know how much diesel is in each fuel tank so that they can be refilled if needed.
Once the level is known, passing the information along is the next critical step. Communicating the fuel level back to the generator owner or the fuel supplier can be handled in a few different ways. Many of our customers have opted for remote communications via the Internet, due to its low cost, ease of use, and sheer effectiveness.
Connecting the MPX transmitter to the Internet provides users with real-time monitoring and the ability to manage fuel levels effortlessly from anywhere. Users no longer need to go on-site to check the fuel levels in their diesel tanks.
Our MPX-E float level transmitter, along with the MPXI-F float level transmitter, can pass information through the Internet with the addition of one of our Internet communications modules. The data is received through our secure web portal, which can be accessed 24/7 anywhere an Internet connection is available. The web portal can also send user-defined alerts via email or SMS text message to notify relevant personnel.
Similar applications for float level transmitters involve the management of critical liquid inventory in remote locations. Oil, yellow grease, fertilizer, water, and fuel are all examples of liquid inventory that’s commonly spread across entire regions. Our float level transmitters, combined with our Internet communications system, provide a low-cost, highly effective solution to an otherwise labor-intensive and costly task.
For tips on how to get the Internet to remote tanks, read our article titled “Wireless Tank Level Monitoring Solutions.”
Want to learn more about our MPX line of float level transmitters? Feel free to reach out to our Sales Team today!
Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons - Geo Swan
