Siemens Process Instrumentation Tech Note
How do I properly install my ultrasonic level transducer?


February 2019, MARIETTA, GA ~ Have you ever bought something and put it together, or installed it, and it just would not work?

Well, with process instrumentation, this can happen, too. It might not be the technology itself. Most of the time, the problem can be traced to installation or configuration issues. The good news is that these issues can easily be resolved in many cases. But, in some cases, the product has to be relocated, new wiring installed, or new parts have to be fabricated to allow the product to work. These solutions can be expensive, frustrating and take you away from other priorities. That is why it is important to understand what to consider when installing ultrasonic level equipment. With a little forethought and planning, you can save yourself time, money and, most importantly, frustration.

This post will help you to understand the considerations necessary to properly install and deploy an ultrasonic level measurement solution. Ultrasonic measuring technology operates on the simple principle of measuring the time it takes sound to travel a certain distance. Ultrasonic transducers are used to send and receive sound signals that determine the distance from the face of the transducer to the material surface. There are many factors that have to be considered when installing and using an ultrasonic transducer. Below, is a brief overview of how to install ultrasonic level products. These guidelines may change slightly depending on the actual ultrasonic transducer being deployed, so you should refer to the supplied manufacturer’s instruction manual of the specific device being commissioned for all installation-related considerations and guidelines.

Typical installation and mounting considerations:

These statements are intended to be general guidelines and are not hard and fast rules.

  • The optimal ultrasonic level transducer installation site is 1/3 the distance from the side wall with the following considerations:

    • All material levels should be considered when selecting the mounting location.

    • The sound path should be perpendicular to the monitored surface, which is different depending on if you are measuring solids or liquids.

    • Avoid mounting the transducer and/or transducer cable in proximity to high voltage or current wiring, high voltage or current contacts, and to variable frequency motor speed controllers.

    • Installation should be done in accordance with the National Electrical Code and for the area classification.

For more information on Siemens ultrasonic level transducers, please click here.