Hydrostatic Level

Hydrostatic Level

Hydrostatic level measurement infers liquid level from the static pressure exerted by the liquid column. A pressure sensor is mounted at or near the bottom of the vessel or deployed as a submersible probe in a well, and the measured pressure is converted to level based on liquid density and installation geometry. This approach is inherently continuous and is suited to many liquids where non-contact methods may be challenged by foam, vapor, turbulence, or internal obstructions.

Endress+Hauser’s hydrostatic portfolio includes Deltapilot and Waterpilot pressure transmitters intended for tanks and wells, with configurations that can be installed externally on a vessel or as submersible probes. The range is positioned for use across industries such as food and water/wastewater, and it includes sensor technologies designed specifically for harsh moisture and condensate conditions.

A defining technology is the Contite measuring cell, developed for hydrostatic level measurement. The measuring element is hermetically sealed between the process membrane and measuring membrane, protecting the sensor and cell electronics; the Contite cell is described as insensitive to condensation and aggressive gases. In parallel, ceramic “dry” cells are available, where process pressure acts directly on a robust ceramic diaphragm and is evaluated via a measured change in capacitance.

These instruments deliver benefits that are directly tied to installation reliability and long-term drift control. The condensate-proof Contite cell is positioned for maximum plant safety, with good reproducibility and long-term stability even after temperature shocks. Ceramic cells provide strong chemical compatibility and mechanical stability (noted as ultra‑pure 99.9% ceramic), and can incorporate membrane breakage detection while remaining suitable for vacuum applications.

Typical applications include raw and treated water reservoirs, lift stations, wet wells, equalization basins, and process tanks where a simple, robust level signal is required. Hydrostatic level sensors are also used for inventory and batching in chemical storage, for level measurement in sumps and pits, and for remote locations where submersible probes simplify installation. When density is stable or compensated, the same pressure signal supports derived volume calculations and alarming.

Forberg Smith, an exclusive authorized representative of sales and service for Endress+Hauser.