Level Measurement Sensors Allow New Applications in the Wastewater Sector

80 GHz Enables New Applications in the Wastewater Sector

Even though flow measurement is quite common in the wastewater sector, the flow measurement of 'foreign' water ingress is still an extremely lengthy process. Since sewers are basically partially filled pipes, using typical magnetic-inductive sensors is not a possibility.

Thus, ultrasonic Doppler systems are often used. However, these still require a minimum coverage and face the possibility of quickly becoming soiled in the wastewater. Venturi flow measurement is based on level readings and mathematical algorithms in conjunction with a Venturi channel, with the advantage of it being self-cleaning with the creation of very little backwater. Moreover, it is quite easy to handle and ideal for partially filled systems.

Once he realized this, the Managing Director of engineering company UMS came up with the idea of creating a venturi channel for quick installation with a special clamping device. What’s more, this is now being patented.

The compact unit has a low weight and can therefore be installed quickly. Image Credit: VEGA

Thanks to an integrated clamping device, installation is extremely simple. Additionally, the cross section of a channel is only slightly reduced. Image Credit: VEGA

The advantage of the UMS channel is that it can be efficiently and quickly integrated into existing sewer systems, without the need for special tools or structural alterations. Since these small, compact designs cannot accommodate the usual characteristic curves of standard channels, UMS creates special characteristic curves for various channel versions. This facilitates the achievement of high accuracy, even during unfavorable conditions.

And the final design engineering of the UMS channel would not have been possible without the latest developments in radar level measurement technology. To determine the filling levels, a radar sensor was required that is small and, most importantly, measures to the bottom of the channel.

The VEGAPULS 64, due to its very compact design, fitted into the system perfectly. Moreover, in terms of water resistance, the sensor has a high rating: IP 68. Owing to its light weight, the Venturi channel is easy to position, clamp in place, and make ready for immediate use. The common problems of backwater, especially in magnetic-inductive flow measurement, or leakage through sealing pads are a thing of the past.

The UMS channel is available for different diameters. The conception and development of the channel was only possible thanks to the very compact design of the VEGAPULS 64 sensor. Image Credit: VEGA

Moreover, the measurement flumes can be installed extremely quickly, which facilitates ease in measuring foreign water ingress. Thus, UMS decided to acquire multiple systems simultaneously, in order to detect foreign water ingress in a systematic manner.

80 GHz in the Wastewater Industry

The advantages of 80 GHz can be seen more prominently when the sensors are installed in highly confined spaces. Typical applications include narrow pump shafts with numerous internals or heavy buildup on the shaft walls. With its encapsulated plastic antenna, the VEGAPULS 64 is extremely easy to install.

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by VEGA.

For more information on this source, please visit VEGA.