What's the Difference Between Ultrasonic Level Sensor and Radar Level Sensor

Level measurement is essential in process applications to keep monitoring the fluid level.

This can be done using a level measurement sensor. Holykell provides various level sensors for different applications. And today we are going to talk about two main level sensors, ultrasonic level sensors and radar level sensors. And how to select between the two.

Holykell ultrasonic level sensors use a non-contact level measurement technique. We are providing split type, integrated type, small and big ones, and for radar level sensor, we have 24GHz and 80Ghz, non-contacting and guided wave radars.

Difference between ultrasonic level sensor & radar level sensor

1.Measurement Principles

Ultrasonic level transmitter and emits sound waves. Radar level transmitter is based on the dielectric constant of the substance being measured and emits electromagnetic waves. Thus if the medium has a very low dielectric constant, radar is not recommended.

2.Measurement Range

Radar level sensors have a much wider measurement range than ultrasonic level sensors.

3.Vacuum

Ultrasonic level sensor cannot measure in vacuum environment, however, radar level sensor can do it.

4.Operating Pressure

Ultrasonic level sensor is not recommended in high pressure or negative pressure applications, the max pressure it can bear is 3 Bar. Generally, they are only used in atmospheric pressure vessels. But the radar can be used in high pressure process tank, for example, Holykell HR80G can work with operation pressure 20bar.

5.Operating Temperature

Ultrasonic level sensor cannot measure medium with temperature over 80°C. While Holykell radar level sensors can work for medium with temperature 220°C.

6.Dusty and Steam Environment

If the environment is dusty, with steam or foam in the liquid surface, ultrasonic level meter cannot work fine. Radar level sensor(high frequency) can work well in such environment.

7.Accuracy

Generally, the accuracy of the radar level sensor is higher than the ultrasonic level sensors.

8.Price

The ultrasonic level sensor is generally lower than the radar level sensor. From above, we can choose a radar or an ultrasonic level sensor based on our application and budget. Or contact Holykell for professional product suggestions.