Understanding How Radar Level Sensors Work

In order to determine how much liquid or solid material is contained within a container or vessel, radar level sensors make use of radar technology. They accomplish this by sending a microwave signal, which frequently takes the shape of a pulse, in the direction of the surface of the substance whose thickness is to be determined. After being reflected by the surface, the signal is eventually picked up by the antenna of the sensor. The level of the material can be determined by using the time it takes for the signal to travel from the antenna to the surface and back again; this time is used in the calculation of the distance to the surface.

A radar level sensor will typically consist of a transmitter, a receiver, and a controller as its primary components. The microwave signal is produced by the transmitter, which then transfers it to the antenna to be received. The reflected signal is picked up by the receiver, which then forwards it on to the controller. The controller then calculates the level of the material based on the amount of time it takes for the signal to complete its journey.

In industrial applications such as oil and gas processing, chemical manufacturing, and food and beverage manufacturing, radar level sensors is a frequent component. They are able to measure level in a wide variety of materials, including liquids, powders, and granules, and are well-suited for usage in severe situations.

Pulsed radar, frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar, and guided wave radar are some of the varieties of radar level sensors that are available. Pulsed radar sensors work by sending out a single, brief burst of microwave radiation and then measuring the amount of time it takes for the pulse to reach its target and return. FMCW radar sensors are able to estimate the level of the material by emitting a continuous wave of microwave radiation and then measuring the shift in frequency of the signal that is reflected back from the substance. The probe or rod that is used by guided wave radar sensors is placed into the substance that is being monitored. The microwave signal is guided through the material by the probe, and the level is calculated based on the amount of time it takes for the signal to emerge from the other side of the material.

The choice of radar level sensor will be determined by the particular application and criteria that are being met, as each variety of radar level sensor comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Learn more about level sensors

Please contact us to discuss your application