APPLICATION BRIEF - 24 GHz RADAR MEASURING ACIDS

Accurate level measurement and control are crucial across the chemical industry.
However, it goes without saying that there are a number of complications that must be
overcome in many applications. Vapour, corrosiveness, condensation and other such
factors are challenges for level measurement equipment, and a poorly-selected device can
quickly succumb and fail.
Hycontrol’s RE Series two-wire 24 GHz FMCW radar level transmitter is designed for a
broad spectrum of liquid applications, most notably for corrosive liquid products. It
measures distance, level and volume of liquids and pastes, and is ideal for measuring the
level of corrosive liquids in agitated tanks up to a range of 100 m/328 ft. The unique drop-
shaped antenna option is perfectly suited for aggressive liquids, acids and other
corrosive substances.
24 GHz radar technology provides power and flexibility for level monitoring and control
across a wide range of demanding industrial applications.

MONITORING SULFURIC ACID FOR IMPROVED PROCESS SAFETY

This application was to control the level of sulfuric acid in a raw material process
tank; a crucial part in the production process of a petrochemical plant.
The vertical, cylindrical tank is two metres high, with a diameter of three metres. The
structure of the tank is rather complex, including a feeding pipe, overflow baffle, and
agitator. Concentrated sulfuric acid flows into the tank from the feeding pipe at the top
and then is pumped into the next production process stage through the drainage pump
at the bottom. The liquid level must be maintained above 50% of the tank’s volume.
Continuous monitoring and interlocking control of the level in the acid tank is
important in order to ensure the consistency of concentrated acid at a higher level and
to avoid burning out the drainage pump in the event of an empty tank. Additional
challenges faced by the chosen level measurement device included a highly corrosive
atmosphere, the tank inlet being very close to the antenna port on top of the vessel,
and huge fluctuations in the level.
The Hycontrol RE Series 24 GHz radar, with DN80 PTFE drop-shaped antenna was
selected for the task, helping the user to optimise their production process. The
gauge provides accurate measurement with almost no influence from the internal tank
dynamics or the product being measured. Besides lowering maintenance
requirements, it has also improved process safety, with a level interlocking control to
avoid the risk of burning out the pump as a result of liquid evacuation.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS OF HYCONTROL 24 GHz RADAR

Measuring range of up to 100 m (328 ft) with accuracy of +/- 2 mm (0.08”)

Aluminium or stainless steel housing
Measures level, distance or volume
Maximum process temperature 200°C (392°F)
Horn or drop antenna options, with extensions to suit any nozzle length
Large, backlit LCD display
Metaglas® sealing barrier available
Empty tank spectrum stops false reflections from internal structures
Durable IP66/68 design suitable for tough industrial environments

Orchard Street, Redditch, Worcestershire B98 7DP

Tel: +44 (0) 1527 406800 / sales@hycontrol.com / www.hycontrol.com