Page 5 - Edition 16.3_web- Final

FRONT COVER STORY

THE STEP TOWARD A UNIVERSAL MEASURING INSTRUMENT

Simple measurement of liquid levels: 80-GHz radar sensors VEGAPULS 64

In 2016, VEGA introduced the VEGAPULS condensation, or build up on the antenna are With VEGAPULS 64, there is hardly a mounting
64, the first radar level sensor for no problem. The radar level sensor measures location where it wouldn’t fit.
liquids on the market that measures at a more reliably due to its greater measurement
frequency of 80 GHz. This feature allows certainty. It has an accuracy of +/-2 mm and a
considerably better focusing of the radar measuring range of up to 30 m. • The new sensor can be easily installed
beam. With VEGAPULS 64, measuring using existing process connections,
is much easier and more reliable, even The device is ideal for wide use across eliminating the need for costly equipment
under difficult conditions, such as tanks industries ranging from demanding modifications.
fitted with heating coils, baffles, or applications in the chemical industry to • Since radar signals pass right through
agitators. hygienic applications in the pharmaceutical viewing windows and glass containers,
and food industries. The relevant approvals the sensor can also be mounted outside
Until then, a radar sensor with a transmission for this sector, such as 3A and EHEDG, are containers.
frequency of 26 GHz and an 80 mm-diameter available. The 80-GHz radar sensor can be
antenna had a beam angle of approximately used universally for the majority of industrial
10°. With the same size of antenna, the level applications. And since the sensor can
VEGAPULS 64 has a beam angle of only 3°. also be equipped with the smallest antenna
This allows the sensor to be used in vessels of its kind, there’s hardly a mounting location
with internal installations or heavy build up where it won’t fit.
on the walls, because the focused microwave
beam simply avoids these obstacles. Your benefits with VEGAPULS 64 at a
glance:
Radar sensors with a larger dynamic range • Ideal for use in vessels with small process
have a higher measurement certainty, and connections, such as those used in
these sensors can be used for a wider range the pharmaceutical, biotech, and food
of applications. With VEGAPULS 64, media industries.
with very poor reflective properties – a low • Media can be measured with much higher
dielectric constant – can be measured with accuracy than ever before – right up to
more certainty than with previous radar the process fitting and down to the very
sensors. Foam, turbulent product surfaces, bottom of the container.

The article’s author, Juergen Skowaisa. He is
Product Manager, Radar at VEGA’s headquarters
in Schiltach, Germany.

• The larger dynamic range provides a higher
measurement certainty, especially when
there is buildup, condensate, foam, or a
turbulent liquid surface in the vessel.
• Radar technology is immune to process
conditions like changing temperature,
pressure, and density. With VEGAPULS 64,
levels can be measured in applications
where the process and/or structural
conditions were previously not suitable for
radar.
Radar level sensor VEGAPULS 64 for liquids is available in three antenna versions: With plastic horn For more information:
antenna of PP, thread with integrated horn antenna, or flange with encapsulated antenna system. www.vega.com/radar.
5