How Best to Install an Ultrasonic or Radar Sensor

When installing an ultrasonic or radar level sensor, the approach depends on your tank type, material, and sensing technology.

Tank types:
Open tanks – e.g., sumps or reservoirs
Closed tanks – e.g., IBCs or silos

Tank materials:
Plastic – corrosion resistance
Fiberglass – height
Metal – strength
Concrete – below-grade structures

Sensor behavior:
Ultrasonic reflects off plastic, fiberglass, metal, and concrete.
Radar passes through plastic/fiberglass but reflects off metal/concrete.
Avoid tall fittings or reflective structures below sensors. Use low-profile fittings with smooth inner diameters for clean signal transmission.

Fitting guidelines:
Adapters (plastic tanks): Install directly or use a Flowline plastic reducer. Avoid multiple reducers.
Flanges (fiberglass/metal tanks): Riser height ≤ 2× inner diameter. Use a reducer if needed, but only one.
Brackets (open tanks): Use Flowline plastic or metal brackets. Radar can also be used in concrete sumps with brackets. Swivels help with aiming in solids.
Couplings (metal tanks): Use half couplings with clean welds. Avoid full couplings. Use a Flowline reducer if oversized.

Summary:
Choose the correct fitting based on tank type, material, and sensing technology. Follow these best practices, and your ultrasonic or radar sensor will perform reliably.

Thank you for watching and please call (855) 737-4714 or visit https://www.valin.com if you have any questions.

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