How Guided Wave Radar (TDR) Level Meters Improve The Efficiency Of Fat-filled Deodorization Towers

Deodorization is a critical step in the oil refining process. In recent years, continuous packed column deodorization has been widely used in oil refining production due to its advantages of high processing capacity, short deodorization time, and low steam consumption. During this process, measuring the oil level measurement in the packed column is an important parameter that requires real-time monitoring. However, due to the complex internal structure of the packed column and its operation under negative pressure and high-temperature conditions (up to 300°C), conventional level meters often struggle to perform adequately. This is where Guided Wave Radar (TDR) level meters become a viable option.

Guided wave radar working principle and features：

Guided wave radar consists of several components, including a transmission and reception device, signal processor, detection component, and display/debugging module. The high-frequency microwave pulses emitted travel along the detection component (such as a steel rod). When these pulses encounter the measured medium, a sudden change in dielectric constant causes reflection, and some pulse energy is reflected back to the receiving device. The microprocessor analyzes the received signals and calculates the liquid level based on the time difference between the transmitted and reflected pulses. The time interval between the transmitted and reflected pulses is proportional to the distance to the measured medium.

Guided Wave Radar (TDR) level meters are not affected by changes in the medium, temperature fluctuations, inert gases, steam, dust, or foam, allowing them to be used in various complex working conditions, such as high temperature and high pressure.

In a packed deodorization tower, decolorized oil accumulates in the stagnant heat decolorization area at the bottom of the tower; therefore, the level meter is typically installed in the lower part of the tower. Based on the structural characteristics of the packed deodorization tower, the guided Wave Radar (TDR) level meter is installed using a measurement tube. There are measurement blind spots in certain areas below the reference measurement surface and at the bottom of the detection rod. During installation, it is essential that the high-level material does not enter the measurement blind spot, and that the instrument maintains a distance from the tube wall, with the rod's orientation perpendicular to the measured medium. To meet these requirements, the main body of the measurement tube is made of stainless steel, featuring a 500mm blind spot at the top, a 300mm blind spot at the bottom, and an effective measurement range in between. The top of the measurement tube is welded with a flange for instrument installation, while the bottom is fitted with a row of drain valves, with the material outlet pipe also made from stainless steel.

When operating, the guided Wave Radar (TDR) level meter uses a pulsed mode with very low transmission power, unaffected by changes in spatial gaseous conditions, providing high measurement accuracy and ease of installation and maintenance. This device can be installed in various metal and non-metal containers, is harmless to humans and the environment, and is capable of measuring almost all media. Therefore, it is widely used in level measurement across various industries. As the cost of guided wave radar level meters continues to decrease, their application prospects will become even broader.