( Virtual Showroom ) Chemical storage facilities, whether for raw materials, intermediates, or final products, pose significant measurement challenges due to the variety of stored substances. Substances may range from corrosive acids and alkalis to volatile hydrocarbons and toxic chemicals, requiring specialised measuring solutions. VEGA’s suite of instrumentation, including the VEGAPULS radar sensors, VEGABAR pressure transmitters, and the VEGASWING vibrating level switches, addresses challenges with precision and reliability, even in extreme conditions.

Precision Level Measurement in Chemical Storage

Level measurement in chemical storage tanks is essential for inventory management, safety, and process control. One of the most advanced technologies employed in these applications is the radar-based level measurement. The VEGAPULS 6X non-contact radar sensor stands out for its superior accuracy and reliability for level measurement in bulk liquids and solids, and it makes it suitable for chemical storage tanks. The 6X sensor is capable of tolerating substances like solvents, hydrocarbons, or other aggressive chemicals due to the non-contact radar technology. Employing chemically resistant materials, such as PTFE and PEEK, further enhances its durability in corrosive environments.

Its high-frequency radar technology allows for the detection of surface liquids with exceptional precision, regardless of tank geometry or obstructions, such as mixers or heating coils, often present in chemical storage vessels. The 80 GHz radar beam of the VEGAPULS 6X is advantageous for chemical storage applications as it produces a narrow beam angle, minimising interference from tank walls or internal fixtures.

Guided wave radar sensors like the VEGAFLEX 81 offer a reliable option for continuous level measurement in storage tanks. The VEGAFLEX  functions by transmitting guided radar waves along a cable or rod, which is effective for monitoring levels in tall tanks that experience high pressures, high temperatures and foam formation.  

Reliable Pressure Measurement for Safe Storage

Pressure measurement is equally critical to ensuring safety and operational control. Tanks storing volatile substances or pressurised chemicals require precise monitoring to prevent overpressure or vacuum conditions. The VEGABAR series of pressure transmitters provides highly accurate and dependable pressure measurements, even in harsh operating environments.

The VEGABAR 83 pressure transmitter, equipped with ceramic-capacitive sensor technology, can operate under extreme pressure and is capable of pressure measurement of gasses, vapours and liquids. The ceramic measuring cell offers high resistance to corrosion and abrasion and is suitable for use in chemical storage tanks containing acids, alkalis, and other reactive substances. Characterised by accuracy and long-term stability, it is a dependable option for monitoring process pressure or hydrostatic levels in tanks.

The VEGABAR 82 is designed for applications that require differential pressure measurements and can be combined with any other sensor in the VEGABAR 80 series for electronic differential pressure measurement. This transmitter features a chemical-resistant ceramic measuring cell, providing high-precision measurements of differential pressures. It is suitable for processes involving closed chemical tanks, where it is necessary to monitor both liquid levels and pressures simultaneously. Differential pressure measurement is essential for cryogenic or high-pressure chemical storage as even minor pressure deviations can present operational risks.

The integration of pressure measurement systems with level sensors creates a comprehensive monitoring solution for chemical storage tanks. Combining the VEGABAR pressure transmitters with VEGAPULS radar sensors allows operators to monitor both pressure and level parameters in real time, providing critical insights into the tank’s status and enhancing safety and control.

Ensuring Safety with Level Switches

Continuous level and pressure measurement, along with point-level detection, plays a critical role in safety applications, such as high- and low-level alarms in chemical storage tanks. VEGA's VEGASWING series of vibrating level switches is designed for these functions. The VEGASWING level switch operates on vibration technology, where the device's tuning fork vibrates continuously when it is not in contact with the medium. Upon contact with the liquid, the vibration ceases, which triggers a level alarm. This technology is engineered to ensure reliability even in extreme temperatures and pressures, thereby contributing to the safety of chemical storage processes.

The VEGASWING 63 serves as a universal level switch for all liquids, including aggressive and hazardous chemicals. It reliably detects levels with millimetre accuracy, regardless of the mounting position. The instrument can be utilised in vessels for various applications, such as empty or full detection, approved overfill protection, dry run protection, or pump protection. The position of the switching point is adjustable through the tube extension. The VEGASWING 63 is noted for its reliability and security across a broad range of applications.

Advantages of VEGA Technology in the Chemical Industry

VEGA’s radar and pressure measurement technologies operate independently of environmental factors, which are common in chemical tanks. Non-contact measurement solutions help reduce wear and exposure to hazardous chemicals, leading to lower maintenance costs and reduced downtime.

Sensors and transmitters are designed for seamless integration with process control systems. Digital communication protocols, including HART, Profibus, and Foundation Fieldbus, enable operators to monitor level and pressure measurements remotely, enhancing operational efficiency and facilitating predictive maintenance strategies. VEGA’s diagnostic tools support quick troubleshooting and system optimisation, which is essential for minimising disruptions to chemical storage operations.

Safety is a critical aspect of VEGA’s instrumentation, with the VEGAPULS 6X and VEGABAR 83 certified and approved for use in hazardous zones, complying with international safety standards such as ATEX and IECEx for explosive or corrosive environments.

The implementation of VEGA’s technologies enables chemical processing plants to manage their storage systems effectively, even under demanding conditions. Through robust design, chemical resistance, and safety certifications, VEGA has established itself as a provider of instrumentation solutions for the chemical industry.