Magnetic level gauges use magnetism to link the indicator in a gauge to a float inside of a vessel in order to accurately show the level of fluid within. As the position of the float changes, the indicator moves up or down by the same amount, meaning that the level in the measuring chamber will always be the same as the fluid level in the vessel itself.
Operating on the principle of conductivity, magnetic level gauges consists of 3 main components: the chamber, the float, and the indicator. The chamber is the main component and can be constructed of any non-magnetic material. It is typically mounted to the side of the vessel, with the liquid level in the chamber set up to match the liquid level in the vessel. While similar to a traditional sight glass in this way, magnetic level gauges can handle some of the more extreme applications, such as ones with highly corrosive or hazardous materials.
To actually get a reading, the ancillary chamber of the magnetic level gauge uses a float that contains a set of permanent magnets. This float is normally constructed of 316 stainless steel or titanium, but can be produced using other materials where needed. When the fluid fluctuates in the primary chamber, it results in a proportionate change in the magnetic level gauge. At LJ Star, each float is custom engineered to meet our customer’s specific application. The float is designed to project a magnetic field through the gauge’s chamber to an externally mounted indicator system in order to easily view internal fluid levels. The external indicator is normally comprised of rotating flags that are brightly colored in order to easily identify when the flag is flipped. Each flag is assembled around rare earth magnetic assemblies that ensure a latching action to eliminate false indication due to vibration.
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