Hydrostatic Level

Hydrostatic Level Measurement

Hydrostatic level measurement converts the head of a liquid column into pressure, delivering a direct, continuous signal for level control. The principle is simple, local, and reliable where foam, vapor, or shifting surfaces challenge non‑contact methods. Endress+Hauser’s hydrostatic portfolio centers on Deltapilot and Waterpilot. Deltapilot mounts to the vessel; Waterpilot is a submersible probe for wells, sumps, and open basins. Both offer metallic or oil‑free ceramic measuring cells matched to media and approvals.

Deltapilot uses the Contite measuring cell, developed for hydrostatic service and sealed against moisture and condensate, for stable level in open or closed tanks. Variants such as FMB50/FMB52/FMB53 handle liquid and paste‑like media, are unaffected by foam, and are qualified for use up to SIL 2. Connections include threads, flanges, and hygienic designs.

Waterpilot probes (e.g., FMX11, FMX21) extend hydrostatic measurement to wells, tanks, towers, lakes, and rivers. FMX21 adds an oil‑free capacitive ceramic cell with HART, optional density‑compensated level, integrated temperature, and drinking‑water certifications; versions exist for wastewater, sludge, and saltwater.

Benefits for operators: immunity to foam and turbulence and robust behavior in humidity and condensate. Deltapilot’s sealed cell enhances uptime; Waterpilot’s ceramic cell resists abrasion. HART supports remote ranging and diagnostics.

Typical applications span municipal lift stations and deep wells, reservoirs, clarifiers and equalization basins, buffer tanks, and general process storage. Devices serve closed tanks with variable headspace pressure as well as open basins, enabling reliable inventory, pump control, and overfill protection.

For designers, selection hinges on media, approvals, mounting, and risk. Endress+Hauser covers corrosion‑resistant wetted parts, hygienic connections, compact submersible probes, and safety‑rated transmitters. Where density changes matter, FMX21 offers density‑compensated level; where condensate is unavoidable, Contite minimizes drift, helping engineer low‑maintenance measurement points.

Vector, your Authorized Endress+Hauser Representative