Magnetic Level Gauges - Complete Selection Guide
Dirksen DKS-UHZ Series magnetic level gauges (MLG) utilize buoyancy and magnetic coupling technology for local liquid level indication and remote control. Range 0~6000mm, red/white dual-color magnetic flap display, optional 4-20mA remote output and level switches. Suitable for petrochemical, power, water treatment, and food and pharma industries worldwide.
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1. Working Principle
Magnetic level gauges are based on buoyancy and Archimedes principle: a permanent magnet float rises and falls with liquid level, driving red/white magnetic flaps to flip 180 degrees via magnetic coupling. Flaps above liquid show white, below liquid show red - the boundary indicates liquid level.
MLGs are purely mechanical local indicators requiring no power. With reed switch or magnetostrictive sensors, they can output 4-20mA remote signals and alarm contacts for DCS/PLC/SCADA integration.
2. Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | Notes |
|---|
| Measuring Range | 0~6000mm | Longer on request |
| Accuracy | +-10mm | Magnetostrictive to +-1mm |
| Working Pressure | PN1.6~PN16.0MPa | Material dependent |
| Media Temperature | -80~450C | High-temp special design |
| Media Density | >= 0.45 g/cm3 | Lower density = larger float |
| Media Viscosity | <= 150cP | Higher needs custom |
| Body Material | 304/316L SS / PVC / PP / Ti | Per corrosiveness |
| Float Material | 304/316L / Ti / PTFE-coated | Per media |
| Connection Flange | DN20/DN25 (std) | Custom available |
| Flange Standard | GB/HG / ANSI / DIN | Per specification |
| Remote Output | 4-20mA + HART (opt) | Magnetostrictive/Reed |
| Protection Rating | IP65/IP67 | Outdoor suitable |
| Explosion Proof | Ex d IIC T6 / Ex ia IIC T6 | Flameproof/IS |
3. Product Models
| Model | Type | Features | Application |
|---|
| DKS-UHZ57 | Standard | Side-mounted 304/316L | General liquid tanks |
| DKS-UHZ57B | Jacketed | Steam/electrical tracing | Asphalt, heavy oil, wax |
| DKS-UHZ57DR | Electric Tracing | Built-in heating cable | Freeze protection |
| DKS-UHZ57F | Anti-corrosion | PTFE/PFA lined, Ti float | Strong acids, bases, solvents |
| DKS-UHZ57D | Top-mounted | Top flange installation | Underground tanks, sumps |
| DKS-UHZ57Y | Remote Type | Magnetostrictive +-1mm | Precision level control |
| DKS-UK | Alarm Type | Hi/Lo level switches | Alarm and pump interlock |
| DKS-UHZ57Ex | Ex-proof | d/IIC T6 or ia/IIC T6 | Hazardous areas |
4. Key Features
Core Advantages:
1. Red/white dual-color display: intuitive, visible from >30m
2. Reliable sealing: fully welded, leak-free, >10 years service
3. Maintenance-free: no mechanical wear parts
4. Multi-function: simultaneous 4-20mA remote + 2-4 switches
5. Wide range: -80~450C, up to PN16.0MPa
6. Ex certified: Ex d IIC T6 / Ex ia IIC T6
7. Corrosion resistant: PTFE liner, Ti float options
8. Easy install: flange connection, replaceable display panel
5. Industry Applications
Petrochemical
Crude oil, product tanks, acid/base storage. 304/316L + Ex-proof
Power Generation
Boiler drum, deaerator, condenser. 304 + electric tracing
Water Treatment
Clear water, sewage, dosing. 304 + level switches
Food and Pharma
Fermentation, batching, CIP. 316L sanitary welded
Mining and Metals
Reagent storage, slurry ponds. PTFE anti-corrosion
Cryogenic Storage
LNG, liquid nitrogen. 304 + vacuum jacket
6. Installation Requirements
Key Points:
1. Must be vertical, deviation <= 1 degree
2. Upper/lower flanges on same vertical line
3. Seal gasket between mating flanges
4. Gauge body must not bear pipe stress
5. Verify float rises and flaps flip on first use
6. Install filter screen ahead for dirty media
7. Ex-proof models: ground resistance <= 4 Ohm
8. Tracing type: verify temp within media limits
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: MLG vs Radar level transmitter?
MLG: contact type, +-10mm, no power needed, low cost, clean liquids. Radar: non-contact, +-1mm, high temp/pressure/corrosive, higher cost. MLG for simple applications, radar for demanding conditions.
Q2: Can it measure strong chemical acids?
Yes. Select anti-corrosion model (DKS-UHZ57F) with PTFE/PFA liner and titanium or PTFE-coated float for HCl, H2SO4, NaOH and other corrosive media.
Q3: Can it output 4-20mA to DCS/PLC?
Yes. Add magnetostrictive or reed switch remote transmitter for 4-20mA+HART output, accuracy +-1mm (magnetostrictive) or +-5mm (reed switch), compatible with major control systems.
Q4: Can remote and switches coexist?
Yes. One gauge can have 4-20mA remote + 2~4 alarm switches for simultaneous display, remote monitoring, alarm, and interlock control.
Q5: What conditions are NOT suitable?
Not for: viscosity >150cP (float sticking); heavy solids/fibers; vigorous stirring; density <0.45g/cm3; high precision metering (<+-5mm).
Q6: Key installation requirements?
Vertical <= 1 degree; flanges on same vertical line; gauge body stress-free; recalibrate float if density changes; check flaps regularly; add filter for dirty media.
Q7: What if magnetic flaps get stuck?
Causes: ferromagnetic debris on float magnet; scaling on float; rusty flap shaft. Solutions: clean/replace float; use external magnet to reset flaps; factory repair for severe cases.
Q8: How often to maintain?
Normally maintenance-free. Annual check: verify flap rotation, no flange leaks, calibrate remote transmitter, test alarm switches. Scaling-prone media: check float every 6 months.
8. Information for Quotation
Please provide:
1. Fluid name and concentration
2. Temperature (deg C) and pressure (MPa)
3. Fluid density (g/cm3)
4. Tank height (measuring range)
5. Mounting: side or top?
6. Flange standard and size
7. Need 4-20mA remote?
8. Need level alarm switches?
9. Hazardous area classification?
10. Corrosive media?
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