VEGA FLEX81 guided level transmitter

VEGA FLEX81 guided level transmitter

VEGA FLEX81 guided level transmitter 

The VEGA FLEX 81 is a guided wave radar (GWR) level transmitter from VEGA, designed for continuous measurement of liquid level and interface level (the boundary between two immiscible liquids). It operates by sending microwave pulses along a probe and analyzing the reflected signals — a principle known as Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR). This measurement method is largely unaffected by medium density, vapor, foam, or fluctuations in temperature and pressure.


Key Features & Benefits

FeatureDescription
High AccuracyAchieves ± 2 mm accuracy across the entire measuring range, suitable for precise inventory and process control.
Long Measuring RangeMaximum range of up to 75 meters (246 ft), covering everything from small tanks to large storage vessels.
Low Dielectric Constant (DK) CapabilityReliably measures liquids with low DK values, including liquefied gases (e.g., LPG, ammonia), thanks to advanced signal processing.
Flexible Probe OptionsAvailable in cable (up to 75 m), rod (up to 6 m), and coaxial (ideal for turbulent surfaces, foam, or low-DK media) designs. Probes can be cut to length on-site for maximum application flexibility.
Robust & Maintenance-FreeWetted parts available in 316L, Alloy C-22, and other corrosion-resistant materials. The probe design resists buildup, and comprehensive self-diagnostics ensure reliable operation with virtually no routine maintenance required.
Specialized for Ammonia (NH₃)Offers a specially designed coaxial probe with enhanced sealing for ammonia service, preventing medium penetration and ensuring long-term safety in this demanding application.

Technical Specifications

ParameterDetails
Measuring PrincipleTime Domain Reflectometry (TDR) — Guided Wave Radar
Measuring RangeUp to 75 m (246 ft)
Accuracy± 2 mm
Process Temperature–60 °C to +200 °C (–76 °F to +392 °F)
Process Pressure–1 to +40 bar (–100 kPa to 4 MPa / –14.5 to 580 psi)
Probe TypesCable, Rod, Coaxial
Output Signals4…20 mA / HART®, Profibus® PA, FOUNDATION™ Fieldbus, and others
Enclosure RatingUp to IP66 / IP68 (dependent on housing and cable gland selection)
Hazardous Area ApprovalsATEX, IECEx, CSA, NEPSI, etc.
Functional SafetyOptional SIL2 certification per IEC 61508 (for use in safety instrumented systems)

Probe Family Overview

The VEGA FLEX 81's versatility comes from its three probe designs, each suited to different applications:

Probe TypeRangeBest For
Cable ProbeUp to 75 mLarge storage tanks, deep wells, and long-range level measurement.
Rod ProbeUp to 6 mSmall tanks, bypass chambers, and short-range applications.
Coaxial ProbeUp to 6 mLow-DK media (e.g., hydrocarbons, liquefied gases), turbulent surfaces, foaming liquids, and ammonia (NH₃) applications. Provides the strongest signal and is least affected by tank internals.

Typical Applications

  • Oil & Gas: Crude oil storage, LPG/LNG tank level, interface measurement in separators

  • Chemical & Petrochemical: Reactor vessels, distillate tanks, corrosive chemical storage

  • Power Generation: Boiler feedwater tanks, condensate storage

  • Refrigeration & Cryogenic: Ammonia (NH₃) level in chiller systems and storage tanks

  • Water & Wastewater: Pump sumps, equalization basins, chemical dosing tanks

  • Food & Beverage: Storage silos for liquids, mixing tanks


System Compatibility & Communication

The VEGA FLEX 81 integrates seamlessly with various control systems via multiple communication protocols:

ProtocolDescription
4–20 mA / HART®Most common; provides analog signal with digital communication overlay
Profibus® PADigital bus communication for process automation
FOUNDATION™ FieldbusDigital bus with advanced control capabilities
VEGA Inventory SystemCloud-based remote monitoring solution (available with optional module)


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