Which hydrostatic level sensor to use with different types of liquid media

25th November 2007

Two of the main factors influencing the type of hydrostatic level sensor to use for a particular application are the viscosity and the corrosive nature of the liquid being measured.

Freshwater is a relatively benign medium for measuring liquid level and most hydrostatic level sensors which are made from stainless steel will be compatible and have a long operating life. However even freshwater can be highly corrosive to some grades of stainless steel when certain minerals or ions are present due to the local geology. Seawater and tidal water are also very corrosive to certain types of ferrous metals. In these cases a hydrostatic level sensor made from duplex stainless steel or titanium will provide more corrosion resistance.

Caustic chemicals are highly corrosive to metals and thin metal diaphragms can be quickly eroded ultimately causing mechanical failure. In these applications it is best to use hydrostatic level sensors with plastic housings and Ceramic diaphragms which are resistant to aggressive chemicals.

Viscous media such as adhesives and paint will clog pressure ports restricting the sensitivity of the sensor diaphragm and making it virtually impossible for them to be cleaned. A flush diaphragm does not have any significant crevices to encourage the build up of material and provides an open surface for easy cleaning.

Waste water such as sewage will block pressure ports in a similar way as viscous media and flush diaphragm hydrostatic level sensors are preferred to reduce the potential for clogging and make cleaning easier. Due to the presence and potential build up of flammable gases from sewage it is required in some countries to use intrinsically safe hydrostatic level sensors in waste water treatment works.

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