Radar level sensors work by sending electromagnetic (microwave) pulses or continuous waves toward the surface of a material (liquid or solid) and measuring the time it takes for the reflected signal (echo) to return. This "time of flight" is used to calculate the distance to the surface, and therefore the level of the material in the tank or vessel.
Principle: Time of Flight (ToF)
Level = Tank Height − Distance to Material Surface
- Radar emits a microwave signal → signal hits material surface → reflects back
- The time between emission and reception is used to calculate the distance
THREE MAIN TYPES OF RADAR LEVEL SENSORS
1. Pulsed Radar
- Sends short bursts (pulses) of microwave energy
- Measures round-trip time of pulse
Used for: General liquid applications, some solids
2. FMCW Radar (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave)
- Emits a continuous signal whose frequency is modulated (swept)
- Compares the frequency difference (beat frequency) between emitted and received signal to calculate distance
Used for: High-precision applications, solids, long-range, and complex tanks
3. Guided Wave Radar (GWR – Probe Type Radar)
- Microwaves travel along a probe (rod or cable)
- Reflected signal is guided back by probe for precise timing (TDR, Time Domain Reflectometry
Used for: Short or narrow tanks, sticky media, or critical liquids in noisy environments
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