Accurate level measurement is essential for maintaining safe, efficient, and reliable industrial processes. In industries handling liquids, bulk solids, and layered materials, selecting the right measurement technology can be challenging, especially when vessels contain aggressive substances or operate under demanding process conditions.
The VEGA FIBERTRAC 31 offers a radiation-based, non-contact solution for measuring the level of liquids and bulk solids, as well as the interface between two liquid layers. Its external mounting arrangement allows measurement without inserting a probe into the vessel or bringing the sensor into direct contact with the product.
What Is the VEGA FIBERTRAC 31?
The VEGA FIBERTRAC 31 is a radiometric level measurement sensor designed for industrial tanks, vessels, silos, and bins. It measures through the vessel wall, making it suitable for applications where conventional internally mounted sensors may be difficult to install, maintain, or expose to the process material.
The system uses a sealed radioactive source housed in a VEGASOURCE container and a flexible detector installed on the opposite side of the vessel. The detector can extend up to 7 metres, allowing it to cover the required measuring height.
By detecting changes in the radiation passing through the vessel, the instrument determines the product level and provides measurement data to the plant’s control system.
How Does the FIBERTRAC 31 Work?
The measurement process involves four main steps:
- Radiation passes through the vessel – A sealed radioactive source emits radiation from one side of the tank or vessel.
- The flexible detector receives the radiation – A flexible plastic detector, with a diameter of 42 mm, is mounted on the opposite side and positioned along the vessel’s height.
- The product absorbs part of the radiation – As the radiation passes through the vessel, the liquid or bulk solid absorbs a portion of it. The amount reaching the detector changes according to the product level.
- The sensor calculates the level – The instrument’s electronics process the detector readings and convert them into a level measurement. The resulting signal can be transmitted through 4 to 20 mA/HART, Profibus PA, or Foundation Fieldbus.
This arrangement enables measurement without direct product contact and without installing a measuring probe inside the vessel.
Key Benefits of VEGA FIBERTRAC 31
1. Non-Contact Measurement
Because the sensor measures through the vessel wall, it does not require a probe inside the product. This helps avoid problems associated with probe corrosion, fouling, and wear.
2. Suitable for Demanding Process Conditions
The FIBERTRAC 31 can operate with any process pressure and temperature, according to its product documentation. This makes it suitable for challenging applications where conventional internal sensors may be difficult to use.
3. Flexible Installation
Its flexible detector supports installation on round and conical vessels. The external mounting arrangement can also simplify installation where access to the vessel interior is undesirable.
4. Reliable Measurement Performance
The instrument offers non-repeatability of 0.5% or better, supporting consistent level monitoring in industrial processes.
5. Integration with Control Systems
With 4 to 20 mA/HART, Profibus PA, and Foundation Fieldbus outputs, the sensor can communicate measurement data to compatible plant control systems. Configuration options include the PLICSCOM display, PACTware/DTM software, VEGADIS 81 or 82 displays, and the VEGA Tools app via Bluetooth.
Industrial Applications of FIBERTRAC 31
The VEGA FIBERTRAC 31 is designed for applications where non-contact measurement offers practical advantages.
- Oil and chemical plants: Monitor liquid levels in storage tanks and process vessels.
- Interface measurement: Measure the boundary between two liquid layers, such as oil and water.
- Mining and mineral processing: Monitor bulk solids in silos and storage bins.
- High-temperature or pressurised vessels: Measure levels where an internally mounted sensor may be exposed to challenging conditions.
- Hygiene-sensitive processes: Support measurement arrangements that minimise contact points with the product.
The appropriate configuration depends on the vessel, process conditions, measuring requirements, and applicable safety regulations.
Installation, Configuration and Maintenance
The FIBERTRAC 31 detector is mounted externally along the vessel, with the radiation source positioned opposite it. Configuration can be carried out using supported VEGA displays, software, or the VEGA Tools app.
The sensor has no moving parts or measuring probes inside the vessel, supporting a low-maintenance design. However, its radiometric measurement principle requires particular attention to radiation safety.
The sealed radioactive source must be handled, installed, licensed, and periodically checked in accordance with local radiation safety regulations. These activities must be performed by trained and authorised personnel. The source type and activity should be confirmed with VEGA before installation.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
- Measurement: Level and interface measurement of liquids and bulk solids
- Measuring range: Up to 7 metres
- Detector: Flexible plastic detector, 42 mm diameter
- Process pressure and temperature: Any, as stated in the product documentation
- Non-repeatability: 0.5% or better
- Signal outputs: 4 to 20 mA/HART, Profibus PA, Foundation Fieldbus
- Configuration: PLICSCOM, PACTware/DTM, VEGADIS 81/82, VEGA Tools app
- Approvals: Includes ATEX, UKEX, IECEx, FM, CSA, and other listed regional approvals, subject to the specific configuration
Conclusion
The VEGA FIBERTRAC 31 provides a non-contact approach to industrial level measurement by using radiation to determine product levels through the vessel wall. Its flexible detector, compatibility with different vessel shapes, and support for liquid, bulk solid, and interface measurement make it a useful option for demanding process applications.
For industries seeking to monitor levels without inserting a probe into the product, the FIBERTRAC 31 offers an alternative worth evaluating against the specific process and installation requirements.
HATTA Trading & Services supports industrial instrumentation solutions for demanding applications. Contact the team to discuss your level measurement requirements and identify a suitable solution for your process.
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