Quick selection table
Use this shortlist before reading the full guide. It matches the published AccuMeasure radar model to the project conditions that drive most RFQs.
- Clean water tanks, 0.3-20 m, no hazardous area: start with AM-RL80 80GHz FMCW for a narrow beam and stable echo.
- Tall silos, dust, or internal tank structures, 20-80 m: AM-RL80 with 80GHz FMCW and a narrow beam angle.
- Hazardous area oil/gas, chemical, or LPG/LNG: confirm ATEX/IECEx Ex d IIC T6 scope names the exact model.
- PLC/DCS integration: choose 4-20mA, HART, or RS485 Modbus from the confirmed model configuration.
Start with the real measuring range
The first specification is not only tank height. Confirm the highest liquid or solid level, the lowest operating level, the nozzle height, and the sensor dead zone. A transmitter listed for 80 m range may still need a minimum blanking distance at the top of the tank.
For water tanks, 0.3-20 m is common. For cement, lime, grain, and plastic pellet silos, 20-80 m is more likely. Add at least 20% margin so the sensor is not working at its limit during abnormal operating conditions.
- Water storage tanks: prioritize stable echo and IP67 outdoor protection.
- Chemical tanks: confirm process temperature, vapor, and wetted housing material.
- Powder silos: prioritize narrow beam angle and strong false-echo suppression.
Check beam angle and installation space
80GHz FMCW radar produces a narrower beam than older low-frequency radar. That matters in tall or narrow vessels because the beam is less likely to hit ladders, agitators, bracing, or tank walls. In practical purchasing terms, a narrower beam can reduce commissioning time and false level jumps.
If the nozzle is close to the wall or the tank has many internal obstructions, send a simple drawing before ordering. A good supplier should confirm the mounting position instead of only quoting the lowest price.
- Send tank height, highest and lowest operating level, nozzle size, and nozzle height.
- Mark agitators, ladders, bracing, inlet flow, and any heating coils on the drawing.
- State whether the sensor must mount at the tank top, side nozzle, or a low-profile standpipe.
Match outputs to the control system
Most industrial projects still use 4-20mA because it is simple, robust, and compatible with PLC and DCS analog input cards. HART is useful when engineers need remote diagnostics. RS485 Modbus is useful for multi-point monitoring or SCADA networks.
For retrofit projects, ask whether the existing panel is 2-wire loop-powered or 4-wire powered. This small detail affects wiring, power supply, and commissioning.
Do not ignore certification and documentation
For oil, gas, solvent, or dust explosion environments, check ATEX or IECEx marking before price comparison. For general water and utility projects, CE, RoHS, ISO 9001 factory control, calibration certificate, and serial-number traceability are usually the core documents buyers request.
A professional China level sensor manufacturer should provide a datasheet, wiring diagram, calibration certificate, and installation guide with the shipment.
Related Guides & Applications
Radar Level Sensor for Oil Tanks
Check vapor, nozzle, tank geometry, output, and hazardous-area inputs for fuel and chemical storage.
Read guideAM-RL80 80GHz Radar Level Transmitter
Review published range, output, certification, MOQ, and lead time for the radar model used in this guide.
Read guideCertificate Verification
Compare the certificate number, issuing body, scope, and validity in your RFQ documentation.
Read guideBuyer FAQ
Is 80GHz radar better than ultrasonic level measurement?
80GHz radar is usually better for vapor, dust, foam, high temperature, and long measuring ranges. Ultrasonic sensors are more economical for clean water tanks and simple chemical storage where vapor and foam are limited.
What information should I send before buying a radar level transmitter?
Send tank height, medium, temperature, pressure, nozzle size, mounting location, required output signal, hazardous area requirement, and any internal structures such as agitators or ladders.
Can radar level sensors measure solids in silos?
Yes. 80GHz radar is commonly used for cement, lime, grain, plastic pellets, and powders. The supplier should check beam angle, dust level, and installation point before confirming the model.
Validate the model for your project
Review the AM-RL80 specifications against your application inputs, or send the project details for an engineer review and current model-specific documentation.