Diplacer Level Transmitter Viscosity Limit

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Thread Starter

Elmira

Since, using displacers in high viscose liquids may result in problems, I would wonder about the limit of viscosity or in which services we other types of level transmitters shall be used instead of displacers.
 
I don't think high viscosity would be a problem as long as the fluid is pourable.
Something non Newtonian like Ketchup may be a different story.

I'm no expert, it's just a feeling I have.
 
I've always considered the use of buoyancy displacers suitable for clean fluids only because any build-up of material on the displacer changes its weight and therefore the 'calibration' of the unit.

If a material is viscous enough to adhere to, build-up, coat or encrust the displacer, then one risks the displacer falling out of 'calibration' as its weight changes.

I was curious what Magnetrol had to say about viscosity since they're a major player in this market.

Their 1998 buoyancy product brochure states, "Will not work with viscous fluids or dry media." (bottom of page 4, left column)
http://www.powerflo.com.au/files/46-100 Buoyancy Products.pdf

That same document, dated 2015,
http://us.magnetrol.com/Literature/1/46-100.4_Buoyancy.pdf
does not have that limitation, only a limitation that build-up on the float may impede performance.

I don't know why the change. Maybe a Magnatrol guy can fill us in.
 
Thank you for your response. I forwarded your message to magnetrol, if I get any response, I'll fill you in.
 
P

Peter Macalua

Is this LT a bad actor despite your constant PM or repair?
What is the medium and temperature?
 
It is going to be installed on the bottom of vacuum tower. The media is hydrocarbon and the temperature is 360 centigrade.
 
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