Radar Level Transmitter Technical Parameters: How To Choose The Right Sensor

Radar level transmitters are widely used in industries such as oil and gas, water treatment, and food processing due to their non-contact measurement and high accuracy. However, choosing the right device requires understanding its key parameters. Here is a detailed analysis:

1. Frequency (26GHz, 80GHz, etc.)

26GHz radar:

Best for long distances (up to 120 meters) and large tanks/silos.

Lower resolution (e.g. ±5 mm), but economical for bulk solid materials such as grain or coal.

80GHz radar:

Higher accuracy (±1 mm) due to narrow beam angle (3°-8°).

Ideal for small tanks, corrosive liquids, or applications with obstacles (such as agitators).

2. Measurement accuracy

Typical range: ±1 mm to ±10 mm.

Affected by:

Frequency (higher frequency, higher accuracy).

Signal-to-noise ratio (stronger signal in a noisy environment).

Calibration (e.g. for LNG with dielectric constant <1.4).

3. Beam Angle

Narrow beam (3°-5° at 80GHz): avoids interference with tank walls or structures.

Wide beam (10°-15° at 26GHz): suitable for flat surfaces or low-reflection materials.

4. Process temperature and pressure

Temperature range:

Standard: -40°C to +100°C.

High temperature model: up to +1000°C (suitable for asphalt, molten metal).

Pressure resistance:

Up to 3 (suitable for pressure tanks in chemical plants).

5. Output signal and communication

Analog: 4-20mA, HART (traditional industry).

Digital: RS485, Modbus, 4-20mA,.

Wireless: LoRa, NB-IoT (remote monitoring).

6. Antenna type (material and design)

Stainless steel: suitable for corrosive liquids (acids, alkalis).

PTFE/PFA coating: meets food/drug standards (FDA/EC1935).

Horn antenna: high gain signal over long distances.

Parabolic antenna: focused beam, suitable for dusty environments.

7. Safety certification

ATEX/IECEx: mandatory certification for explosive areas (refineries).

SIL2/SIL3: key certification for safety instrumented systems.

Industry application examples

Industry recommended parameters

Oil tank 26GHz, ATEX, ±3mm,

Wastewater 80GHz, IP68, ±5mm,

Food processing 80GHz, PTFE coating, FDA compliant

Conclusion

The choice of radar level transmitter depends on the type of media, tank size and environmental conditions. High-frequency (80GHz) sensors are highly accurate, while 26GHz is suitable for long-distance bulk solids measurement. Please always verify certifications (ATEX, SIL) and antenna material compatibility.

Need help with model selection? Contact our engineers for a free consultation.