What is a float in magnetic level gauge?
A magnetic level gauge is a device that is frequently used in the measurement of various liquids, such as water, oil, or chemicals. This device comprises a float that moves up and down with the change in level of the liquid in a tank. The float is a crucial component in the magnetic level gauge, and in this article, we will discuss the float in detail.
What is a float?
A float is a buoyant object that is used to measure the liquid level in a container. Floats can be made of various materials such as plastics, metals, or composite materials. The purpose of the float is to stay afloat at the liquid''s surface and provide information to the gauge about the level of the liquid.
In a magnetic level gauge, the float is made of a non-magnetic material such as stainless steel, aluminum, or plastic. The float''s size and shape can differ based on the particular application and the size of the tank. The float''s diameter must be less than the inside diameter of the pipe to avoid any blockages or jamming.
How does the float work in magnetic level gauges?
As previously mentioned, a magnetic level gauge consists of two main components: the float and the indicator. The float is placed inside the tank, and the indicator is usually positioned outside the tank, displaying the liquid level information.
The float''s magnetic characteristic is an essential aspect of the magnetic level gauge system. The float''s magnetic characteristic helps in the upward and downward movement of the float as the liquid level in the tank rises and falls.
When the float moves up or down, the indicator''s float follows this movement in the external chamber of the magnetic level gauge. This movement is transmitted from the float to the indicator through a magnetically permeable level indicator, which is mounted on the outside of the tank.
Types of Floats
The type of float used in the magnetic level gauge depends on the application and the liquid being measured. The two main types of floats used in magnetic level gauges are:
1. Solid magnets float
2. Guided wave radar (GWR) float
Solid magnets float: This type of float is typically used in applications involving chemicals or water. A solid magnet float comprises a non-magnetic container that holds one or more magnets, usually made of neodymium, a rare earth metal that creates a strong magnetic field. As the liquid level increases or decreases, the float moves up or down, resulting in a change in the magnetic field, which is sensed by the indicator outside the tank.
Guided wave radar (GWR) float: This type of float is mainly used in applications such as oils, petroleum, and liquefied gases. It comprises a tubular float that slides up and down the guide rail system, similar to traditional floats. However, the GWR float also includes a waveguide that transmits radar pulses to the float, measuring the time taken for the radar pulses to reflect back. This time travel measurement is then converted into liquid level measurement.
Advantages and disadvantages of a float in magnetic level gauge
Advantages:
1. High accuracy: A magnetic level gauge with a float provides high accuracy measurements, making it ideal for use in the chemical, oil, and pharmaceutical industries.
2. Easy to install: A magnetic level gauge with a float is easy to install, and there is no need for any calibration.
3. Reliable: A magnetic level gauge with a float has high reliability and is not significantly affected by environmental factors such as pressure, temperature, or humidity.
Disadvantages:
1. Maintenance: The float in a magnetic level gauge requires periodic cleaning to prevent any buildup of dirt or debris. When the float gets dirty, it may not move freely, resulting in an inaccurate measurement.
2. Limited to non-magnetic media: A magnetic level gauge with a float is limited to non-magnetic liquids. In other words, it is not suitable for the measurement of liquids, such as iron or steel.
Conclusion
A float is an indispensable component in the magnetic level gauge, helping in the measurement of various liquids. The type of float used in a magnetic level gauge depends on the application and the liquid being measured. The two main types of floats used in magnetic level gauges are solid magnets and guided wave radar. Although there are some disadvantages, the magnetic level gauge with a float has numerous advantages, such as high accuracy, reliability, and ease of installation. Overall, the float in a magnetic level gauge plays a crucial role in providing accurate and reliable measurement of various liquids, making it an essential tool in various industries.