To reliably detect the level in a vessel, the reflection signal from the medium must be clearly distinguishable from the noise. Two factors determine the beam angle of a radar beam – and thus its focusing – they are: the transmission frequency and the effective antenna size. If the antenna size remains the same, better focusing is achieved by
using a higher frequency.
The solution
VEGAPULS 64, the radar sensor for liquids, operates with a transmission frequency of 80 GHz, this results in a beam angle of only 3°. The radar sensor receives only distinct, definitive reflections from the product surface. This makes the measurement more accurate and reliable. By comparison: a conventional radar sensor with 26 GHz
transmission frequency and an antenna of the same size has a beam angle of approximately 10°. Due to the considerably wider signal beam, agitators, fittings or buildup on the vessel wall cause interference that can affect the measuring result.
The benefits
Expert tip:
For maximum measurement certainty, the largest possible antenna system should be chosen during installation. This ensures both optimal focusing and maximum signal strength.