Glossary · Sensors and measurement
Continuous level measurement
Also known as: Continuous level sensing
German: Kontinuierliche Füllstandmessung
In process instrumentation, continuous level measurement determines the level of a liquid or bulk solid over the whole measuring range and outputs it as a continuous value, for example in meters, percent or volume.
- Sensors
- Process industry
In one sentence
Continuous level measurement tracks the level of liquids or bulk solids across the full range and outputs a continuous value, not a switching point.
Example
A radar level transmitter continuously reports the filling height of a silo so the plant can plan deliveries and calculate stock.
How it applies
- Engineering: Common principles are radar, guided radar, ultrasonic, hydrostatic or Differential-pressure transmitter measurement, capacitive probes and weighing. The choice depends on medium, foam, dust, vapors, tank geometry and required accuracy.
- Commissioning: Tank geometry, empty and full distances and, for volume, the linearization table must be entered correctly. Interference echoes from internals are often suppressed during commissioning.
- Operation: Continuous values are used for inventory, control and alarms, but high-high or overfill protection is often implemented with an independent Point level detection.
- Documentation: Document the reference point of the measurement (tank bottom, flange, sensor) and the linearization. Many misunderstandings between operators and engineers come from different reference points.
Continuous level measurement vs. point level detection
Continuous measurement delivers a value across the range. Point level detection only signals whether the medium has reached a certain height. The two are complementary, not alternatives, in many tank designs.