Ultrasonic Level Sensors

In some water level sensing applications whether they are tank level, river and lake height or similar, it is sometimes necessary to use an alternate mounting method especially when an unobstructed path to the target is not feasible or there is a lot of foam or turbulence which can disrupt water level readings. This is necessary, especially with ultrasonic technology.

One such choice of alternate mounting is the use of a stilling well, as seen above with an MNU Ultrasonic Level Sensor, mounted under a manhole cover in a sewer application.

Read more about Ultrasonic Level Sensor Used with Stilling Well in Water Level Sensing

APG's object detection ultrasonic levels sensors are being used to measure the draft of barges in the waterways off the Louisiana cost.

The draft of a barge is the vertical distance between the waterline and bottom of the hull/keel. The draft determines the minimum depth of the water the barge can safely travel through. The barge draft can also be used in determining the weight of cargo which is calculated by the total displacement of the water caused by the barge.

Read more about Ultrasonic Level Sensor Measures the Draft of Barges

If you were to look up “versatile” in the dictionary, you might find a picture of APG’s new MNU IS Intrinsically Safe Modbus Ultrasonic Sensor. Ok, you might not yet, but you should, and soon. With features like APG’s new QuickMode, global Class I, Division 1 hazardous location certification, and RS-485/Modbus RTU standard on every unit, the new MNU IS is capable of handling just about any level measurement situation. Let’s take a look.

Ultrasonic Level Sensors

ultrasonic level sensor programming Like anything else, there are both cheap and good quality ultrasonic sensors out there. Besides good manufacturing, one of the major differences between a good sensor and everything else is programmability. While non-configurable sensors might seem like a bargain, the advantages of programmable sensors add up to dependable readings and better control of your operation.

Since we can’t speak for all ultrasonic sensors on the market, let’s explore some of the benefits offered through our sensor’s programmable settings. Here are the 18 settings you can adjust in an APG ultrasonic sensor for optimal performance:

Read more about 18 Programmable Settings You Need In An Ultrasonic Sensor

MNU IS Intrinsically Safe Modbus Ultrasonic Level Sensor

LOGAN, UT – Automation Products Group, Inc. (APG) introduces a new ultrasonic level sensor, the Series MNU Is Intrinsically Safe Modbus Ultrasonic Level Sensor.

The MNU IS combines the flexibility and programmability of Modbus sensors with the ability to be installed in Class I Division 1 Hazardous locations. As with all of APG’s Tank Cloud compatible Modbus sensors, both the application parameters (Distance, Level, or Volume settings) and sensor performance parameters (Pulses, Signal Strength, Averaging, etc.) can be configured via APG Modbus software. And with certifications from CSA, IECEx, and ATEX, the Intrinsic Safety rating of the MNU IS is valid all around the globe.

Maintenance is important, but it’s often hard to quantify. How much time does maintenance take? How often does your system need it? Does maintaining one part necessitate a complete system shut down? What does that represent in lost income because your system is not making product? Maintenance is important, but minimizing maintenance is even more important.

Maintenance is also important for your sensors. While everyone (yes, us, too!) would really like for sensors to maintenance free for life, reality dictates that all equipment needs a check-up from time to time. It’s true for pumps and motors, and it’s true for sensors.

So, when’s the last time you gave your ultrasonic sensor a checkup?

Maintenance

Environmental Applications

Ultrasonic Level Sensors

Ultrasonic sensors are pretty cool. Transducers send and receive waves, measurements magically get spit out by the sensor, and nothing had to touch anything, right? You can choose sensors based on range, or type of transducer, or even safety ratings. Most sensors declare their range and frequency together, which seems kind of odd. Why is the range of an ultrasonic sensor tied to its frequency? For the answer, we turn again to our old friend, high school physics.

Ultrasonic Level Sensors

Environmental Applications

Physics

Over the years we have provided several articles on how to install an ultrasonic sensor, proper mounting, using a stilling well, as well as the top 10 mistakes with ultrasonic sensors. Well today is your lucky day. We are making life a bit easier for you and combining these articles into one fun to read complete installation guide!

Proper mounting is critical for the successful operation of an ultrasonic sensor. I know it sounds a bit heavy, but trust us, if you nail the installation you are on your way to worry free readings. In a few minutes you will be able to sit back and relax while you enjoy success.

Physically installing an ultrasonic sensor is actually quite simple, however preparation is the key. There are some essential steps you can take to ensure it is just right. We want to make sure your good sensor performs its best and is happy – so let’s start with the pre-installation.

Installation

Ultrasonic Level Sensors

Ultrasonic level sensors depend on strong echoes to detect a surface and measure the distance. They’re ideal for liquid level sensing where the surface is typically flat and reflective. Because of this, our listed ultrasonic sensor ranges are for liquids.

Solids offer a target that is often uneven and less reflective. An ultrasonic may still be a good choice, however the range will change based on how the echoes are affected.

Ultrasonic Level Sensors

Field Survival Guide

The Field Survival Guide is a series of articles that show you how to overcome common problems you run into out in the wild. It’s what MacGyver would do if he were in your shoes.

Ever wondered how to mount an ultrasonic in the open air, above a body of liquid in a stream or pond?

The truth is you can mount an ultrasonic sensor above open water however you want – as long as it follows the basic rules of ultrasonic mounting. Here are the rules again...

Field Guide

Installation

Ultrasonic Level Sensors

Water and Wastewater