![]() The product surface, distance between the product surface and the sensor, and product reflectivity all play a part. The strength of the radar’s return signal relies on a number of factors. When paired with improved sensitivity, users can expect a more reliable, more accurate measurement. A more focused signal can make measurements around internal obstructions, and with more of the microwave energy reaching the measured product, the radar sensor receives a stronger return signal. Radar sensors with a higher transmission frequency have a narrower beam angle, which makes installations easier and measurements more reliable. These are the situations where 80 GHz radar level sensors outperform their 26 GHz counterparts. ![]() While this may work in some applications, it can be a hindrance in small vessels or tanks with internal components like agitators or heating coils. Process fittings cannot always be changed so, a radar level sensor’s beam angle is often at the mercy of where it is installed. IMAGE 3: Radar sensors using an 80 GHz frequency can be mounted using a variety of process connections, and the more focused beam angle gives users more flexibility on where to mount the sensor on top of the vessel. Conversely, a larger antenna will have a narrower, more focused beam. A smaller antenna will have a wider, less focused beam. When it comes to antenna size, a radar sensor’s microwave beam angle is inversely related. This is important because a radar sensor’s beam angle is dependent on two factors: antenna size and transmission frequency. The latest high-frequency radar level sensors use a transmission frequency of 80 gigahertz (GHz), a leap forward from the previous generation of radars using 26 GHz. Many of today’s radar sensors use higher transmission frequency, take advantage of an improved dynamic range, and use smarter software, giving users better options and more versatility for reliable level measurement instrumentation. Radar manufacturers continue to make improvements in sensor technology and software, which has boosted signal strength and improved measurement accuracy and reliability. Additional components for hazardous areas, overvoltage protection or wireless communication enable a wide range of applications in all industrial sectors. The signal can be used for an external display or a process control system. ![]() This more focused beam enables the radar sensor to avoid any internal structures and output a more accurate and reliable measurement.Ī radar sensor’s integrated electronics convert the measured value into an analog or digital signal for transmission. IMAGE 2: A radar sensor using an 80 GHz frequency (in yellow) has a narrower beam angle than a radar sensor with a 26 GHz frequency (in gray). This distance is inversely proportional to the level in the tank, bin, silo or container, so a greater distance equates to a lower level-and vice versa. The amount of time between emission and reception is proportional to the distance to the product surface-the longer the time of flight, the greater the distance. Radar sensors are installed at the top of the vessel and emit radio microwaves from the antenna system to the measured product surface where that signal is reflected back to the antenna. Radar level technology uses time of flight to make a measurement.
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