INDUSTRY APPLICATION

Why is an 80G radar level gauge better than a 26G radar level gauge?

In the field of radar level gauges, 80G and 26G represent two different technological approaches. The reason 80G radar level gauges are considered "better" is not simply due to their higher frequency, but rather stems from a comprehensive performance leap brought about by their physical characteristics.

radar level gauge

I. Physical Essence: Shorter Wavelength Brings Fundamental Change

80G radar level gauges operate at 80GHz, with a wavelength of only about 3.75mm, while 26G radar has a wavelength of about 11.5mm. This leap from centimeter waves to millimeter waves gives rise to the following core advantages:

II. Extremely Small Beam Angle, Highly Concentrated Energy

The beam angle of 80G radar can be narrowed to 2°~6°, while 26G is typically 8°~15°. The narrow beam acts like a focused flashlight, with highly concentrated energy, accurately penetrating dust and vapor to reach the material surface. In complex tanks with internal components such as agitators and heating coils, the narrow beam can effectively avoid these interfering elements, ensuring stable and reliable measurements.

III. Significantly Improved Measurement Accuracy and Resolution

Due to its shorter wavelength, the spatial resolution of 80G radar is far superior to that of 26G. Its measurement accuracy can reach ±1mm, while 26G is typically between ±3 and 10mm. In applications where liquid level changes are extremely sensitive, such as fine chemical formulation control and pharmaceutical ingredient dispensing, 80G radar can detect minute liquid level fluctuations that 26G cannot distinguish.

IV. Minimal Blind Zone, Suitable for Small Container Measurement

The measurement blind zone of 80G radar is typically only 50-80mm, while the blind zone of 26G is larger. This means that 80G radar can measure liquid levels closer to the top of the tank, offering a particularly significant advantage in space-constrained scenarios such as small reactors and narrow storage tanks.

V. Stronger Anti-interference Capability and Adaptability to Harsh Operating Conditions

In complex environments such as high dust, steam, and foam, 80G radar, with its high frequency and narrow beam, experiences less signal attenuation and clearer echoes. Real-world case studies demonstrate that in high-humidity, high-temperature summer environments, where 26G radar frequently lost signals, replacing it with an 80G radar resulted in a year of continuous, fault-free operation, with measurement stability improved by over 98%. Furthermore, the 80G radar is particularly suitable for measuring media with low dielectric constants (such as oil, liquefied gas, and plastic particles), while the 26G often struggles to effectively identify such weak echoes.

radar level gauge

VI. Not an Absolute Replacement: 26G Still Has Its Applicable Scenarios

It should be noted that the 26G radar has not been phased out. Its longer wavelength actually provides better penetration of dust and steam under certain conditions, allowing for a larger measurement range (up to 70 meters), mature technology, and a more affordable price. In scenarios such as cement plant pulverized coal silos and large atmospheric pressure storage tanks, the 26G remains a practical choice.

In summary, the 80G radar level gauge comprehensively outperforms the 26G in core performance indicators such as beam angle, measurement accuracy, resolution, and blind zone, making it particularly suitable for complex operating conditions and high-precision measurement requirements. However, the fundamental starting point for selection should always be the specific characteristics of the medium, the tank structure, and the operating conditions—frequency is the means, and solving the problem is the goal.

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