IPS-E-IN-140(1)

ENGINEERING STANDARD
FOR
LEVEL INSTRUMENTS

FIRST EDITION
FEBRUARY 2013

This Standard is the property of Iranian Ministry of Petroleum. All rights are reserved to the owner.
Neither whole nor any part of this document may be disclosed to any third party, reproduced, stored in
any retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the
Iranian Ministry of Petroleum.

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

FOREWORD
The Iranian Petroleum Standards (IPS) reflect the views of the Iranian Ministry of Petroleum and are
intended for use in the oil and gas production facilities, oil refineries, chemical and petrochemical
plants, gas handling and processing installations and other such facilities.
IPS are based on internationally acceptable standards and include selections from the items
stipulated in the referenced standards. They are also supplemented by additional requirements
and/or modifications based on the experience acquired by the Iranian Petroleum Industry and the
local market availability. The options which are not specified in the text of the standards are
itemized in data sheet/s, so that, the user can select his appropriate preferences therein.
The IPS standards are therefore expected to be sufficiently flexible so that the users can adapt
these standards to their requirements. However, they may not cover every requirement of each
project. For such cases, an addendum to IPS Standard shall be prepared by the user which
elaborates the particular requirements of the user. This addendum together with the relevant IPS
shall form the job specification for the specific project or work.
The IPS is reviewed and up-dated approximately every five years. Each standards are subject to
amendment or withdrawal, if required, thus the latest edition of IPS shall be applicable
The users of IPS are therefore requested to send their views and comments, including any
addendum prepared for particular cases to the following address. These comments and
recommendations will be reviewed by the relevant technical committee and in case of approval will
be incorporated in the next revision of the standard.

Standards and Research department

No.17, Street14, North kheradmand
Karimkhan Avenue, Tehran, Iran .
Postal Code- 1585886851
Tel: 88810459-60 & 66153055
Fax: 88810462
Email: Standards@ nioc.ir

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IPS-E-IN-140(1)

GENERAL DEFINITIONS
Throughout this Standard the following definitions shall apply.

COMPANY :
Refers to one of the related and/or affiliated companies of the Iranian Ministry of Petroleum such as
National Iranian Oil Company, National Iranian Gas Company, National Petrochemical Company
and National Iranian Oil Refinery And Distribution Company.

PURCHASER :
Means the Company" where this standard is a part of direct purchaser order by the Company,
and the Contractor where this Standard is a part of contract document.

VENDOR AND SUPPLIER:

Refers to firm or person who will supply and/or fabricate the equipment or material.

CONTRACTOR:
Refers to the persons, firm or company whose tender has been accepted by the company.

EXECUTOR :
Executor is the party which carries out all or part of construction and/or commissioning for the
project.

INSPECTOR :
The Inspector referred to in this Standard is a person/persons or a body appointed in writing by the
company for the inspection of fabrication and installation work.

SHALL:
Is used where a provision is mandatory.

SHOULD:
Is used where a provision is advisory only.

WILL:
Is normally used in connection with the action by the Company rather than by a contractor,
supplier or vendor.

MAY:
Is used where a provision is completely discretionary.

Feb. 2013
CONTENTS:

IPS-E-IN-140(1)
PAGE No.

1. SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................ 4
2. REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................ 4
3. UNITS .............................................................................................................................................. 5
4. GENERAL ....................................................................................................................................... 5
5. LOCALLY MOUNTED INDICATING GAUGES ............................................................................. 6
5.1 Tubular Gauge Glasses .......................................................................................................... 6
5.2 Armored-Type Gauge Glasses .............................................................................................. 7
5.3 Magnetic-Type Gauges ........................................................................................................... 9
5.4 Hydrostatic Head Pressure Gauges .................................................................................... 10
5.5 Differential Pressure Level Indicators ................................................................................ 11
6. LEVEL TRANSMITTERS .............................................................................................................. 11
6.1 Displacement Transmitters.............................................................................................. 11
6.2 Differential Pressure Transmitters .................................................................................. 12
6.3 Hydrostatic-head Transmitters ....................................................................................... 12
6.4 Nuclear Type Level Transmitters .................................................................................... 13
6.5 Ultrasonic-type Level Transmitters ................................................................................ 14
6.6 Capacitance-type Level Transmitters ............................................................................. 15
7. LOCALLY MOUNTED CONTROLLERS ...................................................................................... 16
8. REMOTE OR PANEL-MOUNTED RECEIVERS .......................................................................... 17
9. LEVEL SWITCHES ....................................................................................................................... 17
10. TANK LEVEL GAUGING ............................................................................................................ 17
10.1 Traditional Methods of Tank Level Gauging .................................................................... 17
10.2 Hydrostatic Tank Gauging (HTG) ...................................................................................... 21
11. ACCESSORIES .......................................................................................................................... 23
APPENDICES:
APPENDIX A DATA SHEETS WITH THEIR FILLING INSTRUCTIONS....................................... 26
APPENDIX B ADDITIONAL REFERENCES ................................................................................. 48

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1. SCOPE
This Standard discusses recommended practices for design and engineering aspects of more
commonly used instruments and devices for indicating, recording and controlling liquid and solid
levels and liquid-liquid interface levels normally encountered in oil, gas, and petrochemical
industries.

Note 1:
This standard specification is reviewed and updated by the relevant technical committee on
Jan. 1999. The approved modifications by T.C. were sent to IPS users as amendment No. 1
by circular No. 45 on Jan. 1999. These modifications are included in the present issue of IPS.

Note 2:
This is a revised version of this standard, which is issued as revision (1)-2013. Revision (0)1994 of the said standard specification is withdrawn.

2. REFERENCES
Throughout this Standard the following dated and undated standards/codes are referred to. These
referenced documents shall, to the extent specified herein, form a part of this standard. For dated
references, the edition cited applies. The applicability of changes in dated references that occur
after the cited date shall be mutually agreed upon by the Company and the Vendor. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced documents (including any supplements and
amendments) applies.

API (AMERICAN PETROLEUM INSTITUTE)

RP 551

Process Measurement Instrumentation Section 3 and Section 6

MPMS Chapter 3

Tank Gauging, Section 1A- Standard Practice for the Manual Gauging
of Petroleum and Petroleum Products

RP 2350

Overfill Protection for Storage Tanks in Petroleum Facilities

ISA (THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF AUTOMATION)

TR 20.00.01

Specification Forms for Process Measurement and Control Instruments

(Part 1: General Considerations)

IPS (IRANIAN PETROLEUM STANDARDS)

IPS-E-GN-100

Engineering Standard for Units

IPS-C-IN-140

Construction and Installation Standard for Level Instruments

IPS-M-IN-140

Material and Quality Control Standard for Level Instruments

IPS-M-IN-150

Material and Quality Control Standard for Receiving Instruments

IPS-E-IN-190

Engineering Standard for Transmission Systems

IPS-G-IN-210

General Standard for Instrument Protection

IPS-G-IN-260

General Standard for Indicating Lights, Alarms and Protective Systems

IPS-G-IN-300

Tank Gauging Devices for Petroleum and Petroleum Products

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3. UNITS
This standard is based on international system of units (SI), as per IPS-E-GN-100 except otherwise
specified.

4. GENERAL

4.1 Proper selection and application of level instruments depends on the following variables:
a) Type of vessel, fluid or material involved (that is, solids, granules, or liquids, liquid or
liquid/foam interface).
b) Process conditions (that is, pressure, temperature, specific gravity, boiling point,
viscosity, and pour point).
c) Nature of accomplishment (monitor, on-off or modulating control or alarm);
d) Electronic or pneumatic signal.

4.2 Types of Instruments Are Covered:

a) Locally mounted indicating gauges, including tubular gauge glasses, armored-type
gauge glasses, magnetic-type gauges, hydrostatic head pressure gauges, and differentialpressure level indicators.
b) Level transmitters, including displacement, differential-pressure, hydrostatic-head,
nuclear, ultrasonic, capacitance and radar types.
c) Locally mounted controllers, including displacement, ball-float, and differential-pressure
types.
d) Remote or panel-mounted receivers.
e) Level switches.
f) Tank level gauges.
g) Accessories, including seals and purges, gauge glass illuminators, and weather
protection.
4.3 Where only local indication of liquid level other than by means of level gauge glasses is required
and instrument air supply or instrument electricity supply is not available, level indicators with
magnetic coupling should be considered, (see 5.3).
4.4 For remote transmission or local control, displacer level instruments or differential-pressure level
instruments should be applied, unless otherwise specified.
4.5 The differential pressure type level instruments should be considered for the following
applications:
- High pressures services;
- Where the liquid is very viscous and/or highly corrosive;
- Where flashing and/or vibration may occur;
- Applications where a solid contaminant might settle in the displacer chamber;
- Cryogenic services;

Note:
The user may specify capacitance type level instruments in particular for viscous and/or
highly corrosive liquids, where a solid contaminant might settle in the instrument impulse
lines and for cryogenic services.

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4.6 For special applications, other principles of measurement may be considered, such as
ultrasonic instruments or instruments based on conductivity, radioactivity, radar/laser or bubbler
type, such applications require written approval of the user.
4.7 Special provisions such as purging or heating should be considered to ensure proper operation
of level instruments for highly viscous liquids, or for liquids containing water or solids, especially if
the latter tend to form sediments.
4.8 For instruments on high-pressure/temperature service, the difference in density between liquid
and vapor during normal operation is usually much smaller than during plant commissioning. To
obtain in such cases satisfactory indication of the actual level under all operating conditions,
consideration should be given to correcting the level transmitter output by a computing device using
the output of the pressure transmitter or other suitable means.
4.9 For all applications the difference between liquid density and gas/vapor density should be taken
into account when specifying displacer instruments or calculating the range for differential-pressure
instruments.
4.10 For liquid-interface services, special attention shall be paid to the diameter of the displacer or
float to achieve a satisfactory sensitivity, especially when the difference in densities is small. For
3
measuring level interfaces, with density differences of 100 kg/m or less, capacitance type
instruments should be considered.
4.11 The use of an "air-fin torque tube extension" is required for high temperatures. The purpose is
to maintain the instrument case temperature at a reasonable level to prevent failure of transmitter
mechanism. For temperatures over 200 degrees celcius an air-fin extension torque tube is required.

5. LOCALLY MOUNTED INDICATING GAUGES

Locally mounted indicating devices include tubular gauge glasses, armored-type gauge glasses,
magnetic-type gauges, hydrostatic head pressure gauges, and differential pressure level indicators.

5.1 Tubular Gauge Glasses

Tubular gauge glasses are not recommended for process unites.

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TUBULAR GAUGE GLASS CONNECTIONS TO VESSELS

Fig. 1
5.2 Armored-Type Gauge Glasses
- The most commonly used types of armored gauge glasses are the transparent (throughvision) and reflex gauges.
Magnetic-type gauges are available for special application or high-pressure services (see
5.3).

- Transparent Gauges: should be used in installations involving acid, caustic, or dirty (or
dark-colored) liquids, in high-pressure steam applications, for liquid-liquid interface service,
and in any application where it is necessary to illuminate the glass from the rear.

- Reflex Gauges: should be used on all other clean services, provided the product does not
dissolve the paint or other coating on the inside of the gauge, thereby leaving a bare metal
back-wall which in turn reduces the effectiveness of the prisms.
- In service applications involving liquids that may boil, large chamber reflex or transparent
gauge glasses often are used. These are designed to give an accurate level indication of
liquids that boil or tend to surge in the gauge.
- Multiple-section gauge glasses are made up of more than one standard-length section
and can be connected to the vessel by one of the alternatives recommended in Fig. 2A.
For greater visibility and safety, gauge glasses should be limited in length to four sections
1.5 meters between connections. In services at 200C or higher, length to be limited to
three sections, In noncritical level applications and where temperatures are less than
200C, longer gauge glasses often are used, Whenever four or more section glasses are
used, additional support may be required. Expansion and contraction, which result from
temperature changes, should be considered to determine the need for installing offsets or
expansion loops.

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GAUGE ASSEMBLIES
Fig. 2
- Large ranges of level preferably are observed by the use of overlapping gauge glasses.
The mounting of over lapping gauge glasses on a stand pipe is shown in Fig. 2B (minimum
visible length is 50 mm). Gauge cocks " in size generally are used on multiple gauges. It
has been found that the maintenance required on the ball checks of automatic gauge cocks
is so great that the most users prefer to use individual block valves and pipe tees. Both
types of installations are shown in Fig. 2(B).
- Interface observation requires the use of transparent gauge glasses. Fig. 3, shows two
commonly used and recommended methods of mounting multiple gauges on horizontal
vessels where both Liquid-Liquid and Liquid- Vapor interfaces are to be observed.
Connections to the vessels must be arranged so that there is always one in each phase of
each interface being measured.

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GAUGE GLASS MOUNTING ARRANGEMENT FOR HORIZONTAL VESSELS AND FOR

INTERFACE MEASUREMENT
Fig. 3

Protection of Gauge Glasses: Gauge glasses can be attacked (etched) by both vapor and liquids,
for example, steam at a pressure of 250 pounds per square inch, (1675 kilopascals), hydrofluoric
acid, amines, caustics. In these cases, a thin protective film is recommended on the inside of the
glass. Sunlight discolors some plastics, so this should be considered when the film is selected.
Such shields cannot be used in reflex gauges because they render prisms ineffective.

5.3 Magnetic-Type Gauges

- Magnetic-type gauges are used in gauging liquids (a) where glass failure is likely to occur due
to fluids being handled and (b) where the release of toxic gases, flammable liquids, and so forth
is to be avoided.
- Typical construction consists of a float inside a sealed non-magnetic chamber, and an indicator
mounted outside of the chamber, actuated or coupled magnetically to indicate level. Mounting to
vessel usually is accomplished by means of flanged connections, and valves similar to flangedtype external displacement units.
- An external magnetic guide controls the orientation of the float which contains the actuating

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magnet. The actuating magnet has a greater magnetic force than the edges of the magnetized
wafers of the indicating scale. As the actuating magnet passes the wafers, they are rotated 180
degrees presenting the opposite face and color to the observer, (see Fig. 4).

TYPICAL MAGNETIC GAUGE

Fig. 4
Precautions: Magnetic gauges must not be used in areas where forces or matter will affect the
magnetic fields. This includes areas that contain items such as steel support straps, heater wires,
and steam-tracing tubing.

5.4 Hydrostatic Head Pressure Gauges

- Level indication by this means is limited to tanks or vessels not under pressure. The height of a
liquid above a pressure gauge can be determined from the pressure gauge reading (hydrostatic
head) provided the density of the Liquid is known. However, where specific gravity changes are
large, this type of level indicator is highly inaccurate if read under one condition of calibration.
- Pressure gauge arrangements are illustrated in Fig. 5, view A in the Fig. shows the direct
hydrostatic head type, and view B shows an air-bubbler system with either remote or local
indication.

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C) PRESSURE TRANSMITTER

HYDROSTATIC HEAD PRESSURE GAUGE ARRANGEMENTS

Fig. 5
5.5 Differential Pressure Level Indicators
- Differential pressure level instruments generally are used as transmitters and seldom as level
indicators alone. A transmitter with an indicator on the output signal may serve to indicate level.
- Certain high-displacement type (bellows type) differential pressure instruments are furnished
with integral indicators and can be used to indicate level see 6.2.

6. LEVEL TRANSMITTERS
- Transmitters include pneumatic and electrical (conventional or smart) output systems that use
a wide variety of measurement principles, including displacement, differential pressure,
hydrostatic head, nuclear, ultrasonic, and capacitance.
- The transmission of the signal is accomplished as described in IPS-E-IN-190.

6.1 Displacement Transmitters

- Displacement transmitters may be either blind or of the local indicating type. For blind
transmitters, a receiver type indicator on the output signal may be provided for local indication.
Some pneumatic units are equipped with dual pilots, one with a fixed band for level transmission
to cover the full range of the level measurement independent of controller settings, and the other
for local level control.
- Ranges for displacer instruments shall be selected from the following series:
356 813

1219

1524

1829

2134

2438

2743

3048

mm

14

48

60

72

84

96

108

120

in

32

- For instruments mounted on (standard) external displacer chambers, the hanger extension

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length may be:

- 185 mm for rating ANSI class 150/300
- 215 mm for rating ANSI class 600
- 230 mm for rating ANSI class 900
- 255 mm for rating ANSI class 1500
- Because the displacer itself has relatively little motion, it should be used with caution. For
example, highly viscous material can cling to the displacer and affect its calibration. When a
displacement transmitter is used in such service, a liquid purge or heat tracing should be
considered.
- Displacement transmitters sometimes are used for vacuum service or service with volatile
liquids.
- Internal displacers should be avoided particularly on vessels that cannot be isolated without
shutting down part of the plant.
- Where the signal is transmitted to a remote controller or panel-mounted instrument, the
transmission should be accomplished as outlined in IPS-E-IN-190.

6.2 Differential Pressure Transmitters

See IPS-G-IN-210.
- Differential pressure transmitters have faster response characteristics than external cage
displacement transmitters and require less range for stable control.
- Applications of displacement transmitters include remote control and remote indicating or
recording of liquid level. This type of transmitter (usually the blind type) generally has an
adjustable range and can have a high span elevation/ suppression capability. A receiver-type
indicator on the output signal may be provided for local indication.
- Constant head may be maintained on the external or reference leg of the transmitter, because
displacement of the measuring element with measurement changes is minimal even with
condensable, no seal pot is required.
- A flange-connected, direct-tank mounted transmitter is used advantageously for measurement
of slurries or viscous fluids. If required, the sensing diaphragm can be mounted flush with the
inside of the vessel.

6.3 Hydrostatic-head Transmitters

- Hydrostatic head may be transmitted either by means of bubbler tube and pressure transmitter
as shown in Fig. 6(A) or by means of diaphragm actuated air pilot transmitter mounted directly
on the vessel as shown in Fig. 6(B).
- It should be pointed out that some makes of the diaphragm actuated pneumatic pilot are nonlinear in the lower 20 percent of their range.

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HYDROSTATIC HEAD LEVEL TRANSMITTERS

Fig. 6

6.4 Nuclear Type Level Transmitters

- Nuclear-type level instruments are used where other types of internal or external instruments
cannot be used, such as cocking or vacuum towers.
- Nuclear level instruments measure with beta or gamma rays that are sensed by radiation
detectors. A radioactive source is placed so that the vessel contents are between the source and
the detector. When the vessel is empty the count rate is high and as the level rises, the count
rate decreases.
- The strength of the radiation sensed by the detector depends on the density or thickness of the
material in the vessel, the distance between the source and the detector, and the thickness of
the vessel wall and insulation. The range is limited by the size of the source (factory selected for
application). Multiple sources are used sometimes to measure wide ranges see Fig. 7.
- Additional information shall be obtained from the manufacturers.

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TYPICAL ARRANGEMENT OF NUCLEAR LEVEL TRANSMITTER

Fig. 7

6.5 Ultrasonic-type Level Transmitters

- Ultrasonic-transmitters work on the principle of measurement of the time required for sound
waves to travel through space. They are suitable for difficult level measurement applications of
liquids and solids. (See Fig. 8).
- A sound transmitter (transducer) converts an electrical pulse to sound waves which reflect off
the level surface being measured. The reflected signal is detected by either the same or another
transducer.
Since the speed of sound through the medium above the level surface can be determined, round
trip time from signal transmission to reception can be measured and is proportional to level.
- Other types of radiation such as radar, RF, laser may be considered.

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TOP MOUNTED ULTRASONIC-TYPE LEVEL TRANSMITTER

Fig. 8

6.6 Capacitance-type Level Transmitters

- Capacitance level transmitters measure the changing electrical capacitance that occurs in the
device as the level in the vessel being measured varies. (See Fig. 9).
- A capacitor consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulator. Its capacitance is a
function of the area of the plates, the spacing between them, and the dielectric constant of the
insulator.
- The capacitance level transmitter consists of a vertical probe that is inserted into the vessel in
which the level is being measured.
The probe may either be plain or sheathed with an insulating material and serves as one of the
plates of the capacitor.
If the vessel is an electrical conductor and the material (liquid or granular) being measured is an
insulator, a plain bare probe normally is used. In this case the vessel serves as the other plate.
Since the material being measured has a different dielectric constant than the air, vapor, or gas
being displaced, the electrical capacitance between the probe and tank varies with level.
If the material being measured is an electrical conductor, an insulated probe is used the sheath
serving as the dielectric and the material measured replacing the tank as the other plate. In this
case, the size of the capacitor plate and therefore its capacity varies with level.
- With a capacitance/radio-frequency sensing element in an external cage, the difference in
density due to temperature that results in a lower liquid level in the chamber is, to a large
degree, offset by the higher dielectric constant of the denser liquid; hence, the indicated level will
be close to the vessels liquid level.

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CAPACITANCE-TYPE LEVEL TRANSMITTER

Fig. 9
7. LOCALLY MOUNTED CONTROLLERS
- Locally mounted controllers used on all pressure vessels include the displacement, caged ballfloat, internal ball-float, and differential-pressure types.
- "Dual Pilot" displacement instruments provide local control as well as transmission when
operated from a single displacer.
- Direct operated type level controls (ball float and mechanically linked valve) shall not be used.
- Internal ball-float controllers sometimes are used for asphaltic or waxy fluids, for coking service,
or where the liquid contains particles or materials that tend to settle down and that would
eventually block the float action in an external cage type instrument. On severe coking

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applications, it may be desirable to use a steam or flushing oil purge to keep the shaft free and
the packing in suitable condition. In such applications, it is preferable to use dip-tube, purgetype, or differential pressure-type level transmitters and controllers where possible.
- In severe services (the float will be subjected to turbulence within the vessel), it is
recommended that the controller be supplemented by another type of instrument (for example,
differential pressure or other special type).
- Differential pressure controllers may be in the form of a controller integrally mounted on a highdisplacement type differential pressure unit. However, the most common use of differential
pressure instruments in level control is to use a differential pressure transmitter with a separately
mounted receiver controller.

8. REMOTE OR PANEL-MOUNTED RECEIVERS

- Receiver level instruments actuated by transmitted signals are often desired on control panels
or other remote locations. These receivers may be either electronic or pneumatic. Remote
receiver level instruments are normally indicating controllers or indicators only, although
recorders are sometimes used for special applications. (See IPS-M-IN-150).
- The recommended scale or chart range for level instruments is 0 to 100 linear, representing a
percentage of full scale.
- For signal transmission, see IPS-G-IN-190.

9. LEVEL SWITCHES
- Basic instruments for intiating high-level or low-level alarm signals are, with the possible
exception of the float size, the same as those discussed in 6 and 7.
- Other types (For example, pressure switches at the receiver in pneumatic transmission
systems, current or voltage switches in electronic transmission systems, hydrostatic-headpressure-actuated switches on non pressurized tanks, and differential pressure actuated
switches on pressurized vessels), sometimes are used. For a detailed discussion of alarms and
protective devices, see IPS-G-IN- 260.

10. TANK LEVEL GAUGING

10.1 Traditional Methods of Tank Level Gauging

a) Float and cable tank level gauges are the most common means of indirect tank level
indication. These gauges are used primarily on large storage tanks. see Fig. 14. Gauge boards
(targets) are sometimes used for read out on small tanks or other noncritical applications, also
it is called "Ground Reading Tank Level Indicator". See Fig. 13.
b) The reliability and continuing accuracy of a tank gauge installation is dependent directly
upon the condition of the tank on which it is installed. Old and incorrectly erected tanks,
particularly those with unstable bottoms, shells or roofs, will introduce appreciable amounts of
error and variation that no gauge, however carefully installed, can correct.
c) Where maximum accuracy is required, a tank level gauging system should provide
compensation for the variation of float immersion due to liquid specific gravity. High accuracy
also may require powered floats or displacer to reduce immersion and hysteresis errors (servo
or spring-operated automatic tank gauging).
d) Through use of a low-voltage servomotor or spring/measuring error induced by friction, are
eliminated, while improving sensitivity and repeatability. See Fig. 10, which illustrates the
typical parts of servomotor type of level gauging.

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TYPICAL SERVO LEVEL GAUGE

Fig. 10

A:

Displacer

K:

Flexible Wire

B:

Measuring Drum

C:

Magnetic Coupling

D:

Detection Plate

J:

Balance Spring

E:

Integration Circuit

F:

Servomotor

G:

Digital Counter

H:

Transmitter (analog or digital)

I:

Limit/Level/Alarm Switches

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e) Where turbulence caused by high emptying and filling rates or by mechanical agitators can
affect the float or sensing element, it is usually necessary to enclose the measuring element in
a stilling well. These wells shall be installed in a perfectly vertical position. See Fig. 11 where
high-viscosity materials are encountered, it may be desirable to provide heating for stilling well
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) or other boiling surface services usually require a stilling well.
- Tank level gauges often are tied into a multiple tank remote read out. There are a
number of-different proprietary or systems. These transmission systems usually are
designed to minimize wire costs, and they usually include temperature transmission.
- Supervisory computers and micro processor-based read-out systems monitor tank
fields. To provide an adequate scan cycle, a computerized tank level gauging system
requires a rapid response from the tank gauge transmitter.
- High-or low-level alarms can be provided in four ways;
a) Separate float-type level switches mounted outside the tank.

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TYPICAL ARRANGEMENT OF STILLING WELLS FOR TANK GAUGES

Fig. 11

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b) Position detector sensing the floating roof.

c) Electrical switches mounted in the gauge head.
d) Continuous monitoring of tank levels with automatic comparison with an alarm
setting.
The first three ways, require extra wiring from the tank to the control center. The first and second
way will provide an alarm even if the tank gauge float or the gauging system fails.
- Some of the practices mentioned are outlined in MPMS Ch. 3 They cover installing and
using automatic tank gauges and should be referred to for additional information.
- For more details regarding Automatic Tank Gauging see IPS-G-IN-300.

10.2 Hydrostatic Tank Gauging (HTG)

- Hydrostatic Tank Gauging (HTG) is a relatively new method for measuring the mass, volume,
or level of the product in a tank by sensing the hydrostatic pressure-rather than the level.
- A typical HTG on an atmospheric tank consists of two precision pressure transmitters and a
resistance temperature sensor (RTD).
A third pressure transmitter (P3) is used for pressurized tanks. One pressure transmitter (P1) is
mounted on the tank shell just above the bottom. The second pressure transmitter (P2) is
mounted above the P1. P1 measures the total hydrostatic pressure of the product. The
difference between P1 and P2 pressure permits calculation of the fluid density at storage
temperature. The temperature sensor permits calculation of standard density.
- Multiplying the bottom hydrostatic pressure by the tank area gives the product mass. Dividing
the mass by the standard density gives the standard volume. Dividing the mass by the product
density and the tank area gives the tank level see Fig. 12.
- The previous mentioned calculations are achieved by the microprocessor circuits in the HIU
(hydrostatic interface unit) were the final breakthrough. The HIU is a field-mounted device that
contains logic to calculate the product mass, density at product temperature, standard density,
product volume, and standard product volume and level. It also has microprocessor memory
for a set of tank capacity tables for each tank. Essentially perfect calculation accuracy is
provided so that the total system accuracy is determined by the accuracy of the pressure
transmitters. The HIU includes hardware and diagnostic routines and extensive alarm
capabilities.

10.2.1 Corrections:
Some corrections may be considered as follows:
- The height of the P1 transmitter and the distance between P1 and P2 transmitters.
- Tank shell diameter and height expansion due to temperature.
- Tank shell diameter expansion from product hydrostatic pressure.
- API temperature/gravity conversion constants.
- Geographic variation of the earths gravity.

10.2.2 Advantages of HTG;

HTG offers the following advantages: bottom-up measurement, no moving parts, external tank
mounting, density read out, mass read out, ease of maintenance and low installation costs. HTG
uses a fundamentally different method of product measurement. Eliminates errors caused by
bottom movement, encrustation, and tank calibration (strapping) affect. HTG, however, avoids many
of the level measurement errors caused by top-down measurement, and measuring devices.

21

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

TANK HYDROSTATIC GAGING AND INVENTORY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Fig. 12

10.3 Radar Tank Gauging

Radar Tank gauging is designed for refineries, tank terminals and the petrochemical industry. It is
the accurate system for custody transfer, process control, inventory control or for filling a tank
without risk of overflow .The system includes products for level and temperature measurement.
Radar gauge measurement is independent of the process conditions inside the tank. Temperature,
pressure and gas vapors have minimal affect on radar beams.

10.3.1 Level transmitter

The Radar Level gauge is possible to use with a wide range of antennas for different applications.
Radar tank gauges are "downward-looking" measuring system installed on the tank roof. They
measure the distance from the reference point (process connection) to the product surface.
Currently there are two measurement techniques in common use for level measurement. They are
frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar and PULSE radar.
Due to the nature of the microwave, radar tank gauges need to be equipped with functions to
suppress interference echoes (e.g. from edges and weld seams) in the tank so they are not
interpreted as level measurement. Radar technology is suitable for measuring a wide range of
petroleum products.

10.3.2 Temperature sensor

For temperature compensation considering for tank volume calculation, a number of spot elements
are placed at different heights to provide a tank temperature profile and an average temperature.
Only fully immersed elements are used to determine product temperature.

22

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

A multi spot or average temperature sensor may be integrated with a water level sensor.

11. ACCESSORIES
Regarding seals and purges, gauge glass illuminators, and weather protection, see IPS-C-IN-140.

GROUND READING TANK LEVEL INDICATOR

Fig. 13

23

Feb. 2013

TRADITIONAL AUTOMATIC TANK GAGING

Fig. 14

24

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

Feb. 2013

RADAR TYPE TANK GAUGING

Fig. 15

25

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

APPENDICES
APPENDIX A
DATA SHEETS WITH THEIR FILLING INSTRUCTIONS
GAUGE GLASSES AND
COCKS
No.

BY

DATE REVISION

SHEET OF
SPEC. No.

REV

CONTRACT

DATE

REQ.
BY
1. Gauge Column Cocks
Assembled with Nipples Unassembled

2.
3.

4.
5.
6.

7.

Rev.

Tag No.

Visible
Length

Sections
required
Number/
Length

CHKD

APPR.

GAUGE COCKS

GAUGE GLASSES
Type: Reflex Transparent Tubular
Large Chamber Weld Pad
Conn.: Size and Type____________________________
Top & Bot. Side Back
Vent__________Drain _____________________
Material _____________________________________
Rating ___________
Options: Illuminator
Illuminator Housing Material __________________
Power Voltage / Consumption ________________
Cable Entry / Connection ____________________
Enclosure Protection ________________________
Area Classification __________________________
Internal Tube External Jkt
Non-Frost Ext. Length __________________
Calb. Scale
Protective Coating Mica Shield
Other ____________________________________
Manufacturer __________________________

Item

P.O.

Conn.
Length

Type: Offset Straight

Conn.: Vessel _____ Gauge ____Vent/Drain____________
Material: Body ________Trim ______________________
Rating: ________
Construction: _________________________________
Type of Conn.: Vessel ____________________________
Gauge ___________________________
14. Bonnet _______________________________________
15. Options: Ball Checks
Renewable Seats
Other _________________________________
16. Manufacturer & Model_____________________________
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.

Gauge
Model No.

Operating
Fluid
Press.

Temp.

Vessel
Tag
Number

Notes

Notes:

IPS-FORM E-IN-140.1

26

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

GAUGE GLASSES AND COCKS

Instructions for IPS Form E-IN-140.1
1. Check what is to be supplied, and whether assembled or unassembled.
2. Select one type only per sheet.
3. Specify size, style and location of process connections. If side or back connections are used,
vent and drain connections are available.
4. Material of gauge glass chamber and connections.
5. Specify rating. It is assumed that a higher rating is also acceptable. For example ANSI Class 300.
6. This section is used only if the option applies to all items listed on the sheet. Where options apply
to certain items only, use the notes column instead.
7. Use for Manufacturer and Series or Type; detailed number may be listed in the tabulation.
8. Select style of cock, if used.
9. Show connection sizes only.
10. Write in body and trim materials.
11. See line 5 above.
12. Specify action and type of handle; plain closing or quick closing, handwheel or lever handle.
This may be covered by the Model No. given on Line 16.
13. Specify type of connection on each side; plain union, spherical union, solid shank. Give flange
size, rating and type, if applicable.
14. Bonnet may be screwed, union type, or bolted.
15. Options checked here apply to all items. See line 6 above. Include special packing.
16. Fill in if required, or as a final record after selection is made.

"Conn. Length" in tabulation refers to distance between center lines of vessel connections.

27

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

LEVEL INSTRUMENTS
(DISPLACER or FLOAT)
No.

BY

DATE

REVISION

SHEET OF
SPEC. NO.

REV

CONTRACT

DATE

REQ.
BY
1
2
3
4
5
6
BODY/CAGE

DISPLACER
OR FLOAT

XMTR/CONT

SERVICE

OPTIONS

7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48

P.O.
CHKD

APPR.

Tag Number
Service
Line No./Vessel No.
Body Or Cage Mtl
Rating
Conn Size & Location Upper
Type
Conn Size & Location Lower
Type
Case Mounting
Type
Rotatable Head
Orientation
Cooling Extension
Dimensions
Insertion Depth
Displacer Extension
Disp. or Float Material
Displacer Spring Tube Mtl

Function
Output
Control Modes
Differential
Output Action. Level Rise
Mounting
Mounting
Elec. Power or Air Supply
Calibration Span
Upper Liquid
Lower Liquid
Sp. gr.: Upper
Lower
Press. Max.
Normal
Temp. Max.
Normal

Airset
Supply Gauge
Gauge Glass Connections
Gauge Glass Model No.
Contacts: No.
Form
Contact Rating
Action of Contacts

Manufacturer
Model Number

Notes:

IPS-FORM E-IN-140.2

28

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

LEVEL INSTRUMENTS
(DISPLACER OR FLOAT)
Instructions for IPS Form E-IN-140.2
1. Tag No. or other identification.
2. Process service.
3. Line number or vessel number on which cage or body is installed.
4. Material of chamber and/or mounting flange.
5. For float specify top or side of vessel connection. For displacer in a chamber specify upper, then
lower connection; such as side-side, side-bottom, top-bottom, etc. Give flange size and rating or
NPT size.
6. Same as 5.
7. Refers to position of case when viewing the front of the case relative to the chamber; the case is
either to the left, right, or top.
8. On displacer instruments specify if case is to be rotatable with respect to the chamber. This only
applies if there is one or more side connections.
10. Orientation of control with respect to displacer cage.
11. Cooling Extension.
13. Specify float diameter or displacer length. The displacer length is also the range.
14. Insertion depth applied to ball floats. It is the mounting flange to the center of the ball.
15. The displacer extension is measured from the face of the mounting flange to the top of the
displacer. This dimension is required only for top of vessel mounted instruments.
16. Includes rod.
17. Refer to MFRs standard materials or special materials.
18.
19.
20. Transmitter, controller, switch, etc.
21. Air pressure or electrical signal output of transmitter or controller.
22.

P: Proportional
Pn: Narrow band proportional
Pi: Proportional plus Integral (Reset).

23. Differential if controller on/off must specify differential adj. or fixed State adjustable range or
fixed amount.
24. INCREASE (Direct action) or DECREASE (Reverse Action).
25. Remote or integral.
26. Electrical classification of housing NEMA number.
27. Air pressure or voltage. If electronic, state whether ac or dc.
28. Calibration span to be written.
29. Used only for interface application.
30. Used for all services.
31. Specific gravities at operating temperature.
32. Operating and max. pressure or vacuum.

29

Feb. 2013
33. For cryogenic service, give minimum temperature.
34.
35.
36. Airset assumed mounted to case.
37. Connections on chamber, give size.
38. Specify gauge glass, if required.
39. Contact form: SPST, SPDT, etc.
40. Give volts, Amps.
41. Describe contact action with level.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46. Manufacturer.
47. Model number.

30

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

SHEET OF

DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE
INSTRUMENTS
No.

BY

DATE

REVISION

SPEC. NO.

REV

CONTRACT

DATE

REQ.

P.O.

BY

Tag Number

Function

Record

Case

MFR STD

Mounting

Flush

Enclosure Class

General Purpose

XMTR

APPR.

Service
Indicate

Control

Blind

Trans

Integ

Nom Size Color: MFR STD

Surface

Yoke

Other
Other

Other

Weather Proof

For use in Intrinsically Safe System

GENERAL

CHKD

Explosion Proof

Class

Other

Power Supply

117V 60 Hz

Other ac dc Volts

Chart

12 in. Circ.

Other Range No.

Chart Drive

24 hr Other Elec.

Scale

10

Transmitter

Type Range: 1 2 3
420 mA 10-50 mA 21-103 kpa (3-15 psig) Other

Output

For Receiver, See Spec Sheet

Control Modes

P = Prop (Gain), I = Integral (Auto Reset), D = Derivative (Rate)

11

Sub: s = Slow, f = Fast

If

Spring

Df

Other

PI

PD

PID

Is

Ds

Other
CONTROLLER

UNIT

12

Action

On Meas. Increase Output: Increase

13

Auto Man Switch

None

14

Set Point Adj.

Manual

15

Manual Reg.

None

16

Output

4-20 mA

17

Service

Flow

78

Element Type

Diaphragm

19

Material

Body Element

20

Rating

Over range Body Rating Psig

21

Diff. Range

Fixed

22

MFR STD
External
MFR STD

Remote

Other

Other

10-50 mA

Level

Decrease

Other

21-103 kpa (3-15 psig)

Diff. Pressure

Bellows

Other

Other

Mercury

Other

Adj. Range Set At

Elevation Suppression

23

Process Data

Fluid Max Temp. Max Press.

24

Process Conn.

25

Alarm Switches

in. NPT Other

Quantity From Rating

26

Function

Meas. Var.

27

Options

Pressure Element

Deviation

Temp. Element

Contacts To on Inc. Meas.

Range Material

Range Type

Filt Reg.

Sup. Gauge

Output Gauge Charts

Valve Manifold
Cond. Pots

Adj. Damp

Integral Sq. Rt. Ext.

Integral
28

MFR & Model No.

Other

Notes:

31

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE
INSTRUMENTS
No.

BY

DATE

REVISION

SHEET OF
SPEC. NO.

REV

CONTRACT

DATE

REQ.
BY

Rev.

Tag

Adj. Range

Set
Range

Scale or
Chart

Notes:

32

Scale
Factor

Service

P.O.
CHKD

APPR.

Notes

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE INSTRUMENTS

Instructions for IPS Forms E-IN-140 3a & 3b
1. To be used for a single item. Use secondary sheet for multiple listing.
2. Check as many as apply.
3. Nominal size refers to approximate front of case dimensions; Width height.
4. Yoke refers to a bracket designed for mounting the instrument on a pipe stand.
5. Enclosure class refers to composite instrument. If electrical contacts are in the case they must
meet this classification inherently or by reasons of the enclosure. Use NEMA identification system
or ISA identification RP 8.1.
6. Specify electrical power to the entire instrument from an external source.
7. Specify chart size, range and number if applicable.
8. "24 hr" is the time for one rotation of the chart. Other speeds should be listed in hours or days. If
a spring wound clock is used fill in number of hours or days it runs between windings.
9. The scale type may be SEGMENTAL, ECCENTRIC, or DIAL (CIRCULAR). Space is provided for
multiple ranges on the same scale.
10. Specify transmitter output if applicable.
11. See explanation of terminology given on specification sheet. For further definition refer to
American National Standard C85-1-1963 "Terminology for Automatic Control". Specific ranges of
control modes can be listed after "OTHER", if required.
12. For multiple items specify on second sheet.
13. If standard auto-manual switching is not known or not adequate, specify number of positions.
14. Remote set point adjustment assumes full adjustment range. Specify limits if required.
15. Specify if applicable.
16. Specify if applicable.
17. Specify measure variable.
18. Specify type of element or write in "MFR. STD".
19. Materials refer to wetted parts only.
20. Over-range protection refers to maximum differential pressure. The instrument can withstand
without a shift in calibration.
21. Adjustable range means that the range can be changed without replacing any parts.
22. Elevation
23. Give process data affecting meter selection. Flow elements such as orifice plates are specified
on separate forms.
24. Refers to connections piped to process equipment or pipe line. Special flanged connections and
extended diaphragms for level applications should be described after "OTHER".
25. Form may be SPST, DPDT, or others. Rating refers to electrical rating of switch or contacts in
Amps.
26. Specify if alarm is actuated by measured variable or by deviation from controller set point. Give
contact action if single throw form.
27. Specify required accessories. If temperature element is used, the second line is provided to
specify well, length of capillary tubing and other details of the thermal system.
28. After selection is made fill in manufacturer and specific model number.

33

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

SECONDARY SHEET- for listing multiple instruments. List all instruments of the same type
specified on the primary sheet, with variations as shown. "Notes" refers to notes listed by number at
the bottom of the sheet.

34

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

LEVEL INSTRUMENTS CAPACITANCE

No.

BY

DATE

REVISION

SHEET OF
SPEC. NO.

REV

CONTRACT

DATE

REQ.
BY

GENERAL

PROCESS
CONDITIONS

PROBE

AMLIFIER

SWITCH

TRANSMITTER

OPTIONS

PURCHASE

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
48
49
50
51
52

Tag Number
Service
Line No.
Application
Function
Fail-Safe

Vessel No.

Upper Fluid
Upper Fluid Dielectrical Connection
Lower Fluid
Lower Fluid Dielectrical Connection
Max. Pressure
Oper. Pressure
Max. Temperature
Oper. Temperature
Moisture
Vibration
Material Build Up
Model No.
Orientation
Style
Material
Sheath
Insertion Length
Inactive Length
Gland Size
Gland Material
Conduit Size & Connection
Location
Enclosure
Power Supply
Conduit Size & Connection
Type
Quantity
Form
Rating
Load Type
Contacts Open on Level
Output
Power Supply
Enclosure
Range
Compensation Cable
Local Indicator
Manufacturer
Model
Purchase Order Number
Price
Item Number
Serial Number

Notes:

35

P.O.
CHKD

APPR.

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

LEVEL INSTRUMENTS, CAPACITANCE TYPE

Specification Sheet Instructions for IPS Form E-IN-140.4 Prefix number designates line number on
corresponding Specification Sheet.
1. Enter the capacitance level instrument tag number from the P&ID.
2. Enter a narrative description of the process service in which the capacitance level instrument is
installed. Example; P-101 Stripper Bottoms
3. Enter the process line number from the P&ID (if applicable). Enter the vessel number on which
the capacitance level instrument is attached.
4. Denote the type of application that the capacitance level instrument will be used in, such as
solids level, interface detection or liquid level, etc.
5. Enter the capacitance level instrument's function. The instruments function can either be
Control or Indication which is determined from the control function shown on the P&ID.
6. Specify the direction the capacitance level instruments output should move if the instrument
should fail, such as high, low or none.
7. Blank: Modify the data sheet to display the Area Classification instead of Blank in Line 7: then
enter the Area Classification where the instrument is located in the field. Consult with the project
electrical engineer for area classification. Example: Class 1, Div. 2, Group C&D (Group B if
Hydrogen is present).
8. Applicable only for interface level measurements. If applicable, enter the type of fluid in the pipe
or vessel to which the capacitance level instrument is attached, such as gasoline, water,
hydrocarbon condensate, etc.
9. (Check the data sheet for the correct heading, earlier version my have Upper Fluid Dielectrical
Connection. If this is the case, then have the SPI Administrator make the change in the data
sheet to reflect Upper Fluid Dielectric Constant.) Applicable only for interface level
measurements. Fluid dielectric constant should be provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI
process data module.
10. Applicable for all level measurements. Enter the type of fluid in the pipe or vessel to which the
capacitance level instrument is attached, such as gasoline, water, hydrocarbon condensate, etc.
11. (Check the data sheet for the correct heading, earlier version my have Lower Fluid Dielectrical
Connection. If this is the case, then have the SPI Administrator make the change in the data
sheet to reflect Lower Fluid Dielectric Constant.) Applicable for all level measurements. Enter the
type of fluid in the pipe or vessel to which the capacitance level instrument is attached, such as
gasoline, water, hydrocarbon condensate, etc.
12. The maximum and operating pressures at which the fluid in the pipe or vessel operates.
Operating pressures are provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data module or
can be found on the P&ID under the Vessel Information as Design Pressure.
13. The maximum and operating temperatures at which the fluid in the pipe or vessel operates.
Operating temperatures are provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data module
or on the P&ID under the Vessel Information as Design Temperature.
14. Applicable only for solids level measurement. Denote the percentage of moisture in the
content of the solids that the capacitance level instrument will be measuring.
15. Denote whether or not the capacitance level instrument will experience any vibration in this
application.
16. Denote whether or not if there is a potential for material to accumulate on the capacitance level
instrument sensor.
17. Blank.
18. Specify the model number of the capacitance level instrument probe from the manufacturer's
catalog or as provided in the vendors quotation.

36

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

19. Specify the orientation of the capacitance level instrument probe when installed on the vessel
or pipe, such as horizontal or vertical.
20. Specify the style of the capacitance level instrument probe, such as general purpose, heavy
duty, concentric shield, etc.
21. Enter the capacitance level instrument probe material. Normally this material should be
compatible with the plant environment. Consult the manufacturers catalog for available
materials including compatibility to the process maximum pressure and temperature.
22. If a sheath is required, specify the sheath thickness as well as the sheath material. Normally
this material should be compatible with the plant environment. Consult the manufacturers
catalog for available materials including compatibility to the process maximum pressure and
temperature.
23. Specify the expected total immersion of the capacitance level instrument probe in the process
fluid.
24. Specify the inactive extension of the capacitance level instrument probe above the process
fluid.
25. Specify the capacitance level instruments sealing gland size and material of construction.
26. Enter the electrical connection size and type. Electrical connections are normally 1/2 NPT for
electrical conduit entry. Consult manufacturer's catalog for available connection sizes and
compliance with the design installation details.
27. Modify the data sheet to display the Process Connection instead of Blank in Line 27: then
enter the size, type and connection rating for the Process Connection. I applicable, include the
process connection flange material. Example: 2, 150#RF, SS.
28. Denote if the capacitance level instruments electronics are integral to the probe or remotely
mounted.
29. Enter the NEMA rating of the capacitance level instruments amplifier housing.
30. Denote the voltage level that the capacitance level instrument amplifier uses, such as 24 VDC
loop or external power, 120 VAC, 60 Hz, 1-phase.
31. Enter the electrical connection size and type. Electrical connections are normally 1/2 NPT for
electrical conduit entry. Consult manufacturer's catalog for available connection sizes and
compliance with the design installation details.
32. Blank.
33. Denote the type of switch contact, such as mercury, snap, etc.
34. Denote the number of switch contacts within the switch housing and denote the contact form,
such as SPST, SPDT, etc.
35. Denote the switch contact rating in voltage and amperes.
36. Denote the contact load type, such as inductive or non-inductive.
37. Denote the action of the switch contacts, i.e. on rising liquid level the contacts open or close.
Denote the cause of the actuation, such as low liquid level, high liquid level, etc.
38. Blank.
39. Denote the type of signal output the capacitance level instruments transmitter will provide such
as 4 20 mA.
40. Denote the voltage level that the capacitance level instrument transmitter uses, such as 24
VDC loop or external power, 120 VAC, 60 Hz, 1-phase.
41. Enter the NEMA rating of the capacitance level instruments transmitter housing.
42. Enter the vessel fluid range that the capacitance level instrument transmitter will need to
measure. This range is selected to cover the level points as noted on the P&ID by the Process
Engineer. Consult with the project Process Engineer for vessel fluid range if not denoted on the
P&ID.

37

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

43. Blank.
44. If required, specify the length of special compensation cable to be furnished with the
capacitance level instruments probe.
45. Denote whether or not a local indicator is to be included in the capacitance level instruments
transmitter housing. Specify a display calibration range which is typically the transmitter
calibrated range.
46. Blank.
47. Blank.
48. Enter the name of the capacitance level instrument manufacturer.
49. Specify the model number of the capacitance level instrument from the manufacturer's catalog
or as provided in the vendors quotation.
50. Enter the purchase order number for the capacitance level instrument.
51. Do not fill in the price field. Prices will be shown on the purchase order. Enter the purchase
order item number for the capacitance level instrument.
52. Do not fill in the serial number. This can be filled in later by Plant Maintenance if required.

Notes:
Include any explanatory notes for the manufacturer here.
As a minimum specify the following:
1. Any special tagging requirements.
2. Denote the P&ID number on which the capacitance level instrument is located.
3. Denote the electrical area classification where the capacitance level instrument is located in
the field.
4. Denote the ambient temperature range from the process site conditions document.
5. Enter the vessel trim number along with the vessel material of construction.
6. Denote the required flange finish if the capacitance level instruments connections are to be
flanged.
7. Denote whether the displacer level instrument has any special type of material requirements,
such as PMI, NACE, etc.

38

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

INSTRUMENT SPECIFICATIONS
No.

LEVEL SWITCHS

BY

(FLOAT AND DISPLACEMENT TYPE)

DATE

REVISION

SHEET OF
SPEC. NO.

REV

CONTRACT

DATE

SPECIFICATION SHEET
REQ.
BY

GENERAL

BODY

FLOAT OR
DISPLACER

SWITCH

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Tag Number
TYPE

14
15
16

Dimensions
Length Rod
Material

17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25

Type
Quantity
Form
Enclosure
Conduit Conn: Size & Type
Rating: Volts
CY or D.C.
Amps
Watts
HP-KW
Load Type
Diff: Fixed
Adjust
Adjustment: Int
Ext.
Open
On
Incr.
Contacts
Close
Level
Decr.

26

P.O.
CHKD

Service
Material
Top Conn. Location
Bottom Conn. Location
Conn. Size & Rating
Gauge Glass Conn
Type Glass
Type of Gauge Cock
Try Cocks
Whistle

Arm

27

SERVICE
CONDITIONS

28
29
30
31
32
33

Upper Fluid
LOWER FLUID
SP. GR. Upper
Lower
Minimum SP. GR. Diff.
Press: Oper.
Max.
Temp: Oper.
Max.

34

Manufacturers Model No.

Notes:

IPS-FORM E-IN-140.5

39

APPR.

Feb. 2013

IPS-E-IN-140(1)

INSTRUMENT SPECIFICATION
ULTRASONIC LEVEL INSTRUMENT
No.

BY

DATE

REVISION

SHEET OF
SPEC. NO.

REV

CONTRACT

DATE

REQ.
BY

GENERAL

PROCESS
CONDITIONS

DEVICE

TRANSMITTER

SW1
SWITCH
SW2

PURCHASE

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48

Tag No.
Service
Line No.
P&ID No.
Tank/Vessel No.
Tank Roof
Area Classification
Enclosure Class
Electrical Power Supply
Fluid
Solids Buildup Expected?
Pressure Oper.
Max.
Temperature Oper.
Max.
Density
Level Min.
Max.
Specific Gravity
Dielectric Constant
Tank Wall Material
Lining Material
Sensor Type
Sensor Installation
Sensor Matl
Seal Matl
Wetted Part
Electronics Lopcation
Distance to Electronics
Measuring Range
Rating
Press
Temp
Process Conn. Size
Rating
Tag Number
Calibration Range
Output Signal
Protocol
Display
Method of Calibration
Power Supply
Accuracy
Repeatability
Electrical Connection
Type
No of Contact
Contact Action
Actuation
Contact Form
Rating
Load Type @ Rating
Deadband
Setpoint
Setpoint Range
Type
No of Contact
Contact Action
Actuation
Contact Form
Rating
Load Type @ Rating
Deadband
Setpoint
Setpoint Range
Vendor
Manufacturer
Model
Purchase Order Number

Note:

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ULTRASONIC LEVEL INSTRUMENT

Following are instructions for completion of the SPI Instrument Specification for Ultrasonic Level
Instrumentation. Required reference documents are P&ID's, Piping Line Class Specifications and
Ultrasonic Level Instrument Manufacturer's catalog.

1. Enter the ultrasonic level instrument tag number from the P&ID.
2. Enter a narrative description of the process service in which the ultrasonic level instrument is
installed. Example; P-101 Stripper Bottoms
3. Enter the process line number from the P&ID (if applicable). Insert the P&ID number on which
the ultrasonic level instrument is located.
4. Enter the vessel number on which the ultrasonic level instrument is attached. If the ultrasonic
level instrument is installed on a tank, denote the type of roof, such as conical, flat, etc.
5. Enter the electrical area classification where the ultrasonic level instrument is located in the field.
Consult with the project Electrical Engineer for Area Classification. Generally, Class 1, Division 2,
Groups C & D. (Group B if Hydrogen is present.)
6. Enter the NEMA rating of the ultrasonic level instrument transmitter housing.
7. Denote the ultrasonic level instrument transmitter voltage level, such as 24 VDC loop or external
power, 120 VAC, etc.
8. Enter the type of fluid in the vessel to which the ultrasonic level instrument is attached, such as
gasoline, water, hydrocarbon condensate, etc.
9. Denote whether or not if there is a potential for solids to build up on the ultrasonic level
instrument sensor.
10. The maximum and operating pressures at which the fluid in the pipe or vessel operates.
Operating pressures are provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data module or can
be found on the Piping Line List.
11. The maximum and operating temperatures at which the fluid in the pipe or vessel operates.
Operating temperatures are provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data module or
the Piping Line List.
12. Fluid density should be provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data module.
13. The minimum and maximum operating fluid liquid levels at which the ultrasonic level instrument
will be required to measure. Minimum and maximum operating fluid levels are provided by the
Process Engineer.
14. Fluid specific gravity should be provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data
module.
15. Fluid dielectric constant should be provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data
module.
16. Enter the material of the tank wall on which the ultrasonic level instrument is attached. If the
tank has a liner, enter the material of the tank liner.
17. Denote the type of sensor used, such as non-contact ultrasonic.
18. Denote where the sensor is to be installed. Typically this will be the tank roof.
19. Enter the ultrasonic level instrument sensor material. Normally this material should be
compatible with the plant environment. Consult the manufacturers catalog for available materials
including compatibility to the process maximum pressure and temperature.
20. Enter the ultrasonic level instrument seal material. Normally this material should be compatible
with the plant environment. Consult the manufacturers catalog for available materials including
compatibility to the process maximum pressure and temperature.

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21. Enter the ultrasonic level instrument wetted parts material. Normally this material should be
compatible with the plant environment. Consult the manufacturers catalog for available materials
including compatibility to the process maximum pressure and temperature.
22. Denote whether the ultrasonic level instrument transmitter housing will be integral to the sensor
or remote mounted from the sensor.
23. If the ultrasonic level instrument transmitter will be remote mounted from the sensor, denote the
distance from the ultrasonic level instrument sensor to the transmitter.
24. Enter the total possible measuring range of the ultrasonic level instrument sensor. Consult the
manufacturers catalog for ultrasonic level instrument capabilities.
25. Enter ultrasonic level instrument pressure and temperature ratings as provided by the
manufacturer.
26. Enter the size for the process connection on the ultrasonic level instrument.
connection rating for the ultrasonic level instrument process connection.

Enter the

27. Enter the ultrasonic level instrument transmitter tag number from the P&ID. Typically, this is the
same tag number from Line 1.
28. Enter the vessel fluid range that the ultrasonic level instrument transmitter will need to measure.
This range is selected to cover the level points as noted on the P&ID by the Process Engineer.
Consult with the project Process Engineer for vessel fluid range if not denoted on the P&ID.
29. Denote the type of signal output the transmitter will provide such as 4 20 mA and the type of
protocol used to communicate, such as HART or Foundation Fieldbus.
30. Denote whether or not a display is to be included in the ultrasonic level instrument transmitter
housing. Specify a display calibration range which is typically the transmitter calibrated range.
31. Denote how the transmitter is to be calibrated by the vendor.
32. Denote the voltage level that the ultrasonic level instrument transmitter uses, such as 24 VDC
loop or external power, 120 VAC, etc.
33. Enter the transmitter accuracy and repeatability as noted in the manufacturers catalog.
34. Enter the electrical connection size and type. Electrical connections are normally 1/2 NPT for
electrical conduit entry. Consult manufacturer's catalog for available connection sizes and
compliance with the design installation details.
35. Denote the type of switch contact, such as mercury, snap, etc. and denote the number of switch
contacts within the switch housing.
36. Denote the action of the switch contacts, i.e. on rising liquid level the contacts open or close.
Denote the cause of the actuation, such as low liquid level, high liquid level, etc.
37. Denote the switch contact form, such as SPST, SPDT, etc. Denote the switch contact rating in
voltage and amperes.
38. Denote the switch contact load type, such as inductive or non-inductive, and denote if the switch
deadband is adjustable or fixed.
39. Denote the setpoint at which the switch is to actuate and specify a setpoint range within which
the setpoint maybe established or within which the setpoint is allowed to occur.
40. Denote the type of switch contact, such as mercury, snap, etc. and denote the number of switch
contacts within the switch housing.
41. Denote the action of the switch contacts, i.e. on rising liquid level the contacts open or close.
Denote the cause of the actuation, such as low liquid level, high liquid level, etc.
42. Denote the switch contact form, such as SPST, SPDT, etc. Denote the switch contact rating in
voltage and amperes.
43. Denote the switch contact load type, such as inductive or non-inductive, and denote if the switch
deadband is adjustable or fixed.

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IPS-E-IN-140(1)

44. Denote the setpoint at which the switch is to actuate and specify a setpoint range within which
the setpoint maybe established or within which the setpoint is allowed to occur.
45. Enter the name of the vendor who sold the ultrasonic level instrument.
46. Enter the name of the ultrasonic level instrument manufacturer.
47. Specify the model number of the ultrasonic level instrument from the manufacturer's catalog or
as provided in the vendors quotation.
48. Enter the purchase order number for the ultrasonic level instrument.

Notes:
Include any explanatory notes for the manufacturer here.
As a minimum specify the following:
1. Any special tagging requirements.
2. Denote the ambient temperature range from the process site conditions document.
3. Enter the vessel trim number along with the vessel material of construction.
4. Denote the required flange finish if the ultrasonic level instruments connections are to be
flanged.

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IPS-E-IN-140(1)

SHEET OF

RADAR LEVEL
No.

BY

DATE

REVISION

SPEC. NO.

REV

CONTRACT

DATE

REQ.
BY

GENERAL

PROCESS
CONDITIONS

RADAR
GAUGE
SYSTEM

ANTENNA

ANTENNA
UNIT

CONTROL
UNIT

OPTION

PURCHASE

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50

Tag No.
Service
Application
Vessel Number
Line Number
Vessel Int. Diameter
Vessel Length
Line Size
Line Schedule
Vessel Material
Line material
Area Classification
Ambient Temperature
P&ID Number
Vessel Orientation
Type
Fluid Name
Specific Gravity
Viscosity
Temperature Oper.
Max.
Pressure Oper.
Max.
Max. Liquid Level (Tank Bot.=0)
Min. Liquid Level (Tank Bot.=0)
Model
Measurement Principle
Signal Processing
Oper. Frequency
Measurement Range
Accuracy
Ingress Protection IEC Certificate
Elect. Protection
Type
Function
Stem Length
Diameter
Process Connection
Mounting Position
Mounting Location
Mounting Type
Distance (Adapter Plate to Tank Bot)
Material
Function
Output
Mounting Location
Cable to Control Unit
Function
Local Display
Programming Access
Output
Power Supply
Mounting Location
Special Painting
Installation Kit
Cable (Antenna Unit to Control Unit)
Vendor
Price
Manufacturer
Model
Purchase Order Number
Serial Number

Note:

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IPS-E-IN-140(1)

RADAR LEVEL
Following are instructions for completion of the SPI Instrument Specification for radar level
instruments. Required reference documents are P&IDs, Piping Line Class Specifications and radar
level instrument Manufacturer's catalog.

1. Enter the radar level instrument tag number from the P&ID.
2. Enter a narrative description of the process service in which the radar level instrument is
installed. Example; P-101 Stripper Bottoms
3. Denote the type of application that the radar level instrument will be used in, such as solids level,
liquid level, etc.
4. Enter the vessel number on which the radar level instrument is attached. Enter the process line
number from the P&ID (if applicable).
5. Enter the interior diameter and length of the vessel on which the radar level instrument is
attached.
6. If applicable, enter the process line size from the P&ID and the pipe schedule. Common
examples are the use of stilling wells and stands pipes or level bridles used for mounting of radar
gage.
7. Line material of the stilling well or stand pipe.
8. Enter the electrical area classification where the radar level instrument is located in the field.
Consult with the project Electrical Engineer for Area Classification. Generally, Class 1, Division
2, Groups C & D. (Group B if Hydrogen is present.)
9. Denote the ambient temperature range from the process site conditions document.
10. Insert the P&ID number on which the radar level instrument is located.
11. Denote the orientation of the vessel, such as horizontal or vertical and denote the type of vessel
on which the radar level instrument is mounted, such as ASME, conical roof, etc.
12. Enter the type of fluid in the pipe or vessel to which the radar level instrument is attached, such
as gasoline, water, hydrocarbon condensate, etc.
13. Fluid specific gravity should be provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data
module.
14. Fluid viscosity should be provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data module.
15. The maximum and operating temperatures at which the fluid in the pipe or vessel operates.
Operating temperatures are provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data module
or can be found on the P&ID under the Vessel Information as Operating and Design
Temperature.
16. The maximum and operating pressures at which the fluid in the pipe or vessel operates.
Operating pressures are provided by the Process Engineer in the SPI process data module or
can be found on the P&ID under the Vessel Information as Operating and Design Pressure.
17. The maximum operating fluid liquid level in reference to the tank or vessel bottom at which the
radar level instrument will be required to measure. The maximum operating fluid level is
provided by the Process Engineer.
18. The minimum operating fluid liquid level in reference to the tank or vessel bottom at which the
radar level instrument will be required to measure. The minimum operating fluid level is provided
by the Process Engineer.
19. Specify the model number series of the radar level instrument from the manufacturer's catalog or
as provided in the vendors quotation.
20. Specify either Non-Contacting (Propagation) or Guided Wave Radar.
21. Denote the type of signal processing the radar level instrument is provided with as noted in the
manufacturers catalog. Enter the frequency at which the radar level instrument operates.

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IPS-E-IN-140(1)

Example of Non-contacting radar gage: Pulsed, free propagating / 6 GHz. Example of Guided
Wave Radar: Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) / leave blank.
22. Enter the vessel fluid range that the radar level instrument transmitter will need to measure. This
range is selected to cover the level points as noted on the P&ID by the Process Engineer.
Consult with the project Process Engineer for vessel fluid range if not denoted on the P&ID.
23. Enter the radar level instruments accuracy as noted in the manufacturers catalog.
24. Enter the enclosure type such as NEMA 4X or IP66.
25. Enter if CENELEC or UL Certificates stamps are required for electrical protection.
26. Enter the type of antenna, such as cone, parabolic, for non contacting and Coaxial probe rigid or
flexible for guided wave radar.
27. Enter the radar level instrument's function. The instruments function can either be Continuous
Level Surface, Continuous Interface Level, or Continuous Level Surface and Interface Level.
28. Specify the length of the radar level instruments antenna along with the antennas diameter.
Consider the nozzle projection from the top of the vessel as well as the nozzle pipe schedule. In
application where and external stand pipe is being use, you must also consider the inside length
of the stand pipe.
29. Enter the size, type and connection rating for the process connection on the radar level
instrument. If applicable, include the process connection flange material. For example: 2 150#
RF.
30. Denote the mounting position of the radar level instrument antenna in reference to the vessel or
tank and denote the mounting location, such as xx feet from the center of the tank. In application
where and external stand pipe is being use, enter Stand Pipe or if a stilling well is being used
enter stilling well.
31. Enter the mounting type such flange adapter plate for gage NPT connections
32. Specify the distance from the bottom of the vessel or tank to the bottom of the radar level
instruments antenna.
33. Enter the radar level instrument antenna material, antenna sealing material and o-ring materials.
Normally this material should be compatible with the plant environment. Consult the
manufacturers catalog for available materials including compatibility to the process maximum
pressure and temperature.
34. Enter the radar level instrument's function. The instruments function can either be Local
Indication only, Indicating Transmitter or Transmitter only, which is determined from the control
function shown on the P&ID.
35. Denote the type of signal output the antenna will provide.
36. Denote if the radar level instruments electronics are integral to the antenna or remotely mounted
37. If the transmitter is to be remote mounted from the antenna, specify if the vendor is to provide
cabling between the antenna and transmitter. Enter the type of cable that the vendor will supply.
38. Enter the radar level instrument's function. The instruments function can either be Control or
Indication which is determined from the control function shown on the P&ID. Control function
would include tank gauging applications where multiple temperature and pressure compensation
calculation would be performed in the Control Unit.
39. Denote whether or not a local indicator is to be included in the radar level instruments
transmitter housing. Specify a display calibration range which is typically the transmitter
calibrated range. Denote whether or not special programming access is available with the
transmitter housing.
40. Denote the type of signal output the transmitter will provide such as 4 20 mA and the type of
protocol used to communicate, such as HART or Foundation Fieldbus.
41. Denote the voltage level that the radar level instrument uses, such as 24 VDC loop or external
power, 120 VAC, 60 Hz, 1-phase.

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IPS-E-IN-140(1)

42. Specify if the transmitter is integral to the antenna or is to be remote mounted.

43. Denote whether or not any special painting is required.
44. Denote whether or not an installation kit is required to be supplied with the radar level
instrument.
45. See Line 37.
46. Enter the name of the vendor who sold the radar level instrument. Do not fill in the price field.
Prices will be shown on the purchase order.
47. Enter the name of the radar level instrument manufacturer.
48. Specify the model number of the radar level instrument from the manufacturer's catalog or as
provided in the vendors quotation.
49. Enter the purchase order number for the radar level instrument.
50. Do not fill in the serial number. This can be filled in later by Plant Maintenance if required.

Notes:
Include any explanatory notes for the manufacturer here.
As a minimum specify the following:
1. Enter the Dielectric Constant of the fluid, if measuring interface enter both upper and lower
fluid Dielectric Constants. This is applicable for Guided Wave Radar gages.
2. Any special tagging requirements.
3. Enter the vessel trim number.
4. Denote the transmitter enclosure material.
5. Denote the vessel nozzle projection and schedule on which the radar level transmitter is to
be installed.
6. Denote the electrical connection size and type. Electrical connections are normally 1/2
NPT for electrical conduit entry. Consult manufacturer's catalog for available connection sizes
and compliance with the design installation details.
7. Denote the required flange finish if the radar level instruments connections are to be
flanged.
8. Denote whether the displacer level instrument has any special type of material
requirements, such as PMI, NACE, etc.

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Feb. 2013
APPENDIX B
ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

1) SHELL
DEP 32.31.00.32-Gen Instruments for Measurement and Control

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