In water and wastewater operations, knowing exactly what’s happening inside your tanks, wells, and channels is critical. Level measurement ensures pumps run efficiently, tanks don’t overflow, and solids are processed safely, all while helping you meet strict environmental regulations.
At TechStar, we work alongside operators and engineers to design level measurement systems that deliver dependable performance in the toughest conditions. From clean water tanks to sludge thickeners, we provide solutions built for accuracy, integration, and long-term reliability.
Key Applications Across Water & Wastewater
Below are some of the most common (and challenging) level measurement applications, along with the technologies that make them possible.
Wet Wells & Lift Stations
Wet wells are the heart of most wastewater systems, but foam, grease, and turbulence can significantly impact readings.
Best fit: Non-contact ultrasonic sensors for continuous level monitoring.
TechStar tip: Proper cable venting and sensor mounting eliminate drift and false alarms.
Clarifiers & Thickeners
Clarifiers separate solids from liquids, but changing density, foam, and rake arms can make measurement tricky.
Best fit: Non-contact radar or ultrasonic sensors with automatic signal adjustment.
TechStar tip: Radar sensors with narrow beam angles, such as 80 GHz, maintain accuracy, even through steam or mist.
Sludge Tanks & Sludge Beds
Sludge management depends on precise level control to avoid overflows and optimize dewatering.
Best fit: Guided wave radar or ultrasonic sludge interface transmitters.
TechStar tip: Use self-cleaning probes or purge systems to combat coating and buildup.
Digester & Filter Tanks
In anaerobic digesters, high temperatures and corrosive gases create harsh conditions.
Best fit: Pressure or radar transmitters with chemically resistant housings and remote electronics.
TechStar tip: Pair level and gas flow monitoring to gain full visibility of digestion efficiency.
Water & Effluent Tanks
Whether storing clean water or treated discharge, accurate tank level data ensures proper distribution and reporting.
Best fit: Radar or magnetostrictive transmitters with high accuracy over large spans.
TechStar tip: Combine level data with flow totals to track system efficiency and reduce energy costs.
Channel Flow & Overflow Weirs
During heavy rainfall or storm events, reliable level measurement in channels and weirs helps prevent surcharges and overflows.
Best fit: Ultrasonic or radar sensors with open-channel flow computation.
TechStar tip: Integrate sensors with telemetry systems for early warning alerts and compliance tracking.
Choosing the Right Technology
Selecting the best level measurement solution comes down to matching technology to environment.
| Technology | Ideal Use | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Radar (FMCW/Pulse) | Tanks, digesters, open channels | Non-contact, unaffected by vapor or temperature |
| Ultrasonic | Wet wells, clarifiers, weirs | Economical, simple installation |
| Hydrostatic (Submersible) | Lift stations, sludge tanks | Reliable in foamy or turbulent liquids |
| Guided Wave Radar | Slurries, thickeners | Accurate even in changing density |
| Thermal Mass |
Blower air, digester gas | Tracks aeration and energy efficiency |
Why Partner with TechStar
We don’t just provide sensors, we provide complete solutions. Our team has decades of field experience solving complex challenges across water and wastewater facilities. Whether you’re upgrading legacy systems, integrating into SCADA, or modernizing for remote monitoring, we’ll help design and deploy instrumentation that performs long after installation.
✔ Application expertise across tanks, wells, and sludge systems
✔ Field services for calibration and verification
✔ Local inventory and technical support
✔ Integration with PLC and telemetry systems
Ready to Improve Your Process?
Reliable level measurement helps keep your operation compliant, efficient, and under control.
Talk with TechStar about building a level measurement system that’s accurate, durable, and easy to maintain — no matter how tough your process gets.