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Submersible pressure level sensors
Submersible pressure sensors are specific types of pressure sensors designed to be submerged in fluids, such as water or other liquid environments. They are widely used in industrial applications, environmental monitoring, marine and underwater research. Submersible pressure sensors are also called submersible pressure transmitters or submersible pressure transducers.
Relation to Subsea pressure sensors
Subsea pressure sensors and submersible pressure sensors are closely related, often overlapping in their functionalities and applications. The primary distinction lies in their specific use cases and design adaptations. Submersible pressure sensors are generally designed for shallow water applications, such as environmental monitoring in lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. They are typically optimized for ease of deployment and use in relatively accessible underwater environments.
Where Sub sea pressure sensors are tailored for deep-water applications, capable of enduring extreme pressure conditions found in deep seas and oceans. They are built for high durability and can operate reliably in the most demanding underwater settings. Both types of sensors share the core function of measuring pressure in aquatic environments, but sub sea pressure sensors are engineered for more extreme conditions and greater depths, making them suitable for heavy-duty marine and industrial applications.
Tips selecting your suitable submersible pressure sensor
For any sensor, it is important to consider the pressure range, accuracy, sensitivity, range and conditions. Especially for our Submersible pressure sensor category, we would like to provide the following tips to help you choose the right sensor for your project or application:
- Depth rating: Ensure the sensor is rated for the maximum depth of your application to avoid damage and ensure accurate pressure measurements.
- Material durability: Choose sensors made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or titanium, especially if used in saltwater or chemically active environments.
- Ingress protection: Look for sensors with a high IP rating (e.g., IP68) to ensure they are fully protected against water ingress.
- Cable quality: Opt for sensors with robust, waterproof cables that can withstand the harsh conditions of submerged environments.
- Temperature compensation: Select sensors with built-in temperature compensation to maintain accuracy across varying water temperatures.
Hopefully these tips will help you select the best sensor for your project or application. For further information and questions, please contact our team of technical experts, who always want to help you find the right submersible pressure sensor for your project or application.
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Frequently asked questions about Submersible pressure level sensors
Answers to the most important technical questions
What output signals do submersible pressure transducers provide?
Submersible pressure transducers from Althen provide standardized analogue output signals, depending on the model, for easy integration into controllers, data loggers or monitoring systems. Common options include 4–20 mA as a 2-wire signal, as well as voltage outputs such as 0–5 V, 0–10 V or 0.5–4.5 V as 3-wire versions.
The MPM489W, for example, is available with 4–20 mA DC, 0–5/10 V DC and 0.5–4.5 V DC. The MPM416W is also offered with analogue current and voltage outputs.
The suitable output signal depends on cable length, supply voltage, data acquisition system and application. For long cable lengths, a 4–20 mA signal is often preferred because it is less sensitive to voltage drops and interference.
For which water depths are submersible pressure transducers suitable?
Submersible pressure transducers are suitable, depending on the model, for level and depth measurements in tanks, wells, boreholes, open waters or offshore applications. They measure the hydrostatic pressure of the liquid column and use it to determine the filling level or water depth.
Typical measuring ranges start at around 1 mH₂O and extend up to 200 mH₂O for standard level sensors. For greater depths, models such as the APR3441 are available with measuring ranges up to 500 mH₂O. For special underwater applications, for example on ROVs, underwater pressure sensors such as the APR3939 with ranges up to 6000 mH₂O can be used.
The suitable version depends on the maximum immersion depth, medium, density, cable length, material, protection class and environmental conditions. The sensor should always be selected according to the maximum water depth of the application. Althen supports you in selecting the right submersible pressure transducer for your level or depth measurement application.
What cable lengths are possible for submersible pressure transducers?
The possible cable lengths depend on the specific submersible pressure transducer, measuring range, output signal and installation situation. For the MPM489W, cable lengths up to 200 m are specified in the ordering code. Typical lengths include 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 150, 200 or 500 m. For versions with 5 V DC or 3.3 V DC supply, it should be noted that the cable length must be less than 10 m.
For the MPM416W, different cable materials such as PE, PUR, PVC or Teflon are available; PE is used as standard unless otherwise specified. The suitable cable length should be selected according to the maximum immersion depth, mounting position and connection point.
For reliable level or depth measurement, the cable length should always be matched to the application, measuring range and electrical connection. Althen supports you in selecting the right cable length and cable version for your installation.