A slurry is a semiliquid mixture of fine particles of insoluble material usually suspended in water.   Slurries are commonly used to transport solids such as minerals. As such, slurries are very common in the mining industry to transport ores and tailings over long distances. Ores are crushed and ground and then water is added to produce a slurry.  Sometimes these slurries can be corrosive. In these instances, chemicals are added to prevent corrosion. When the slurry reaches its destination, the water is removed, separating the solid material.

The process of creating the slurry and then separating the requires the use of tanks, pipes, and pumps at each of the different steps. The tanks are agitated to ensure the solid components remain suspended in the liquid. 

Measuring level in these tanks can be challenging. Not only is the liquid surface turbulent because of the agitation, but the agitation can also cause foam to develop. Additionally, splashing and crystallization can result in quite a bit of build-up on surfaces and structures directly above the liquid. Level devices that come in contact with the slurry are subjected to abrasion and other mechanical forces that could damage the sensor.

Non-contact radar, like the VEGAPULS 6X, is a good choice for measuring level. It is mounted above the liquid surface so that it is not subjected to the mechanical wear that contacting sensors experience. Radar is very resistant to foam and build-up.  It is not affected by the rough surface of the liquid.

Overall, measuring the level of the slurry with radar is an easy measurement because the liquid carrier is water. The allows the almost any antenna system or frequency to be used. It is advisable to use a sensor that will withstand the potential build up and condensation that is likely to form on the electronics housings. VEGA offers electronics housings that are rated for this type of environment.

So, while slurries can look violent and menacing, when it comes to level measurement, radar is able to handle them with ease.