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Level Measurement : What is bubbler system ? Advantages and Disadvantages

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A bubbler system, also known as a bubbler tube level measurement system, is a type of hydrostatic level measurement device used to measure the level of liquids in tanks or vessels. It operates based on the principle of hydrostatic pressure and consists of a small-diameter tube or pipe connected to the bottom of the tank, with its open end submerged in the liquid. Here's how a bubbler system works:

  1. Installation of Bubbler Tube:

    • The bubbler tube is installed vertically inside the tank or vessel, with its open end submerged below the liquid surface. The tube is typically made of corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or plastic.
  2. Gas Supply:

    • A gas (usually air or nitrogen) is supplied to the bubbler tube through a control valve and a supply line connected to a pressure source. The gas pressure is regulated to maintain a constant flow rate into the tube.
  3. Bubble Formation:

    • As the gas flows into the bubbler tube, it exits from the open end submerged in the liquid, creating bubbles that rise to the surface. The pressure of the gas inside the tube is adjusted to ensure that the bubbles reach the liquid surface without collapsing.
  4. Pressure Measurement:

    • The pressure of the gas inside the bubbler tube is proportional to the depth of the liquid above the open end of the tube. A pressure sensor or transmitter connected to the tube measures the gas pressure, which is then converted into a corresponding liquid level measurement.
  5. Level Calculation:

    • Based on the pressure measurement, the level transmitter calculates the liquid level in the tank using calibration data and algorithms. The liquid level measurement is typically displayed on a digital indicator or transmitted to a control system for further processing.

Advantages of Bubbler System:

  1. Suitable for Aggressive or Hazardous Liquids:

    • Bubbler systems can be used to measure the level of aggressive, corrosive, or hazardous liquids since the sensor is not in direct contact with the liquid.
  2. Continuous Level Measurement:

    • Bubbler systems provide continuous level measurement, allowing real-time monitoring of liquid levels in tanks or vessels.
  3. Simple Installation and Maintenance:

    • Bubbler systems are relatively easy to install and require minimal maintenance compared to some other level measurement methods.
  4. No Moving Parts Inside the Tank:

    • Since the bubbler tube is the only component that comes into contact with the liquid, there are no moving parts inside the tank that can get damaged or require maintenance.

Disadvantages of Bubbler System:

  1. Sensitive to Changes in Liquid Density:

    • Bubbler systems may be sensitive to changes in the density of the liquid, which can affect the accuracy of the level measurement.
  2. Potential for Air Locks:

    • Air locks or bubbles trapped in the bubbler tube can interfere with the accuracy of the level measurement.
  3. Limited Accuracy in Turbulent Conditions:

    • Bubbler systems may provide less accurate measurements in tanks or vessels with turbulent or agitated liquid conditions.
  4. Requires Gas Supply:

    • Bubbler systems require a supply of gas (such as air or nitrogen), which adds to the complexity and cost of the system compared to some other level measurement methods.

Overall, bubbler systems offer a reliable and cost-effective solution for measuring liquid levels in tanks or vessels, particularly for applications involving aggressive or hazardous liquids. However, they may have limitations in terms of accuracy and sensitivity to certain operating conditions.

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