Chapter 17 – Level Measurement

Level sensors are used to measure the position of the surface within some form of container of both liquids and solid materials in the form of powders. The chapter explores the suitability of the various types of sensors available to measure such liquids and solids. Discussion starts with cheap devices such as dipsticks and float systems that give an approximate measurement of level which is sufficiently accurate in many applications. The discussion then continues with more accurate techniques like hydrostatic systems, capacitive level sensors, ultrasonic level gauges, radar sensors, nucleonic sensors, and certain other less common devices such as the vibrating level sensor and laser-based sensors. This is followed by some discussion on intelligent level sensors. Finally, the subject of level sensor calibration is covered.