Electrostatic tank monitoring is through an electrostatic sensor that detects the tendency of a fluid, or a measuring device in the fluid, to store, convert, or pass electrical energy. These are either capacitive or inductive sensors. Typically, electrostatic tank sensors detect the amount of fluid in the tank by sensing the electrical capacitance of the fluid (its ability to hold a very faint, tiny electrical charge).
The measured capacitance depends upon the type of fluid and the percentage of the sensor probe that is immersed in it (determined by the height of the fluid in the tank). The effectiveness of this type of sensor largely depends upon the dielectric, or electrical capacity, of the particular fluid (oil and water have different dielectric values, for instance) as well as the type and size of tank.
Electrostatic sensors are commonly used for measuring fluids such as water, oil, fuel, other petrochemicals and solvents, and certain chemicals — especially in metal tanks, totes or drums, and other specialized applications.
For an example of an electrostatic sensor, see our Model LS7000 RF Point Level Switch.
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