A float-based level switch does one thing. It tells you the liquid reached a set point. Useful for basic on/off control. But many processes demand more than a trip signal. They need continuous level data, accurate to within a millimeter, delivered in real time to a control system.
This is where a magnetostrictive level transmitter solves problems a float switch was never designed to handle.
The Problem With Point-Level Thinking
Float switches are reliable tools for straightforward applications. When a process only needs a high-level alarm or a pump start signal, they perform well.
Problems appear when your process demands more:
- You need to know where the level is, not whether it crossed a threshold
- Your process fluid causes buildup, fouling, or corrosion on mechanical parts
- Turbulence near inlets or agitators produces false trips
- Your control system needs a 4-20 mA signal for trending, alarming, or PID control
- Regulatory or safety requirements call for documented, continuous level records
Float switches answer none of those needs. A magnetostrictive level transmitter addresses each one.
How Magnetostrictive Technology Works
A magnetostrictive transmitter uses an electrical pulse, interacting with a magnetic float to output process level. The transmitter sends an electrical pulse down a waveguide. When the pulse meets the magnetic field from the float, it generates a torsional wave. The transmitter measures the time between the outgoing pulse and the returning wave.
From the time-of-flight measurement, the transmitter calculates the exact position of the float. The output is a continuous 4-20 mA signal proportional to level, accurate to within a fraction of an inch.
The externally mounted SOR 1310MAG Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter ensures no contact occurs between the transmitter and the process. There are no contacts to wear, no mechanical linkages to foul, and no pivot points to jam.
Float Switch vs. Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter: A Direct Comparison
Capability |
Float Switch |
Magnetostrictive Transmitter |
| Measurement type | Point (on/off) | Continuous |
| Output signal | Discrete switch | 4-20 mA with HART |
| Accuracy | Set-point only | ±0.032 in. (±0.813 mm) |
| Moving parts exposed to process | Yes | SOR 1310MAG (Float Only) SOR 1310NET (Float and Probe only) |
| Susceptible to fouling/jamming | Yes | Minimal |
| False trips from turbulence | Yes | No |
| Interface level measurement | No | Yes |
| Control system integration | Limited | Full |
| Trending and data logging | Not possible | Standard |
Where Magnetostrictive Transmitters Outperform Float Switches
Chemical Processing
Chemical tanks with viscous or reactive fluids coat mechanical float switch components. Buildup changes buoyancy and shifts the trip point. A 1310MAG magnetostrictive transmitter mounts externally to a magnetic level indicator chamber. The process fluid contacts only the float and the chamber wall. The electronics stay completely outside the process.
Oil and Gas
Separators, storage tanks, and knockout drums require continuous level monitoring. Many oil and gas processes require interface measurement between oil and water layers. A float switch provides neither. A magnetostrictive level transmitter delivers both top-level and interface-level outputs from a single instrument when using a two float system.
Power Generation
Boilers, deaerators, and condensate tanks require tight level control. Operators need trend data to optimize performance and document compliance. A 4-20 mA output feeds directly into DCS and SCADA systems. A float switch does not supply it.
Water and Wastewater Treatment
Lift stations and storage tanks in harsh environments demand instruments to resist fouling. Float switches in wastewater require inspection and cleaning every three months in many installations. A magnetostrictive transmitter eliminates most of the maintenance burden.
What Continuous Level Data Gives You
Operators who move to continuous level transmitters report changes beyond additional data. They gain:
- An earlier warning of abnormal conditions before the level reaches a trip point
- The ability to trend the level over time and identify gradual changes
- Integration with automated control loops to regulate the level actively
- Reduced unplanned shutdowns from false trips or missed level changes
- A documented measurement record for regulatory and safety audits
These outcomes apply across oil and gas, chemical processing, power generation, water treatment, and any other process depending on liquid level control.
FAQ: Magnetostrictive Level Transmitters from SOR Measurement and Control
Q: What is a magnetostrictive level transmitter?
A: A magnetostrictive level transmitter is a continuous level measurement device. It sends an electrical pulse down a waveguide. When the pulse meets the magnetic field of a float, it generates a torsional wave. The transmitter measures the travel time to calculate exact float position. The result is a real-time level signal accurate to within millimeters.
Q: How does it differ from a float switch?
A: A float switch provides a single on/off signal when liquid reaches a set point. A magnetostrictive level transmitter provides a continuous 4-20 mA signal across the entire measurement range. You get the full picture of where the level is, not whether it crossed a threshold.
Q: Does it work with a magnetic level indicator?
A: Yes. The SOR 1310MAG Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter mounts externally to a magnetic level indicator chamber using non-ferrous hardware. It reads the float position through the chamber wall. No additional process penetrations needed. The transmitter removes for calibration or replacement without taking the vessel offline.
Q: What outputs does the SOR 1310 support?
A: The SOR 1310 provides a 4-20 mA analog output with HART digital communication. It also includes a local LCD display for field reading. The combination supports control system integration, digital asset management, and field verification without additional instrumentation.
Q: Does the SOR 1310 measure interface level?
A: Yes. The 1310 supports both top-level and interface-level measurement in a two float system. It fits oil and gas separators and chemical storage. Any application with two liquid layers needing independent monitoring benefits from the 1310.
Q: Is recalibration difficult?
A: No. The SOR 1310 includes a Quick-Cal function for simple recalibrations in the field. The instrument does not need to come offline or leave the plant for routine calibration.
Q: What is the measurement range of the SOR 1310?
A: The 1310 measures up to 20 ft. (6.1 m). The range covers the majority of tank and vessel applications across process industries.
Q: Does direct insertion work without a magnetic level indicator?
A: Yes. The SOR 1310NET is available in a direct insertion configuration. Use it for tank applications without an external MLI chamber.
Q: How accurate is the SOR 1310?
A: The SOR 1310 delivers accuracy of ±0.032 in. (±0.813 mm). The precision supports tight process control and meets documentation requirements in regulated industries.
Q: Where do I request a quote for the SOR 1310?
A: Submit your application details with our Request a Quote form. SOR Measurement and Control Representatives will help you match the SOR 1310 configuration to your process conditions.
Get the Right Level Measurement for Your Process
If your process requires more than a trip signal, a float switch is the wrong tool. A magnetostrictive level transmitter gives you continuous, accurate, HART-ready level data.
SOR Measurement and Control engineered the 1310 Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter for exactly these applications. Request a quote today and tell us about your process. SOR Measurement and Control engineers will specify the right configuration for your tank, your fluid, and your control system.
Learn more about the SOR Measurement and Control 1310 Magnetostrictive Level Transmitters:
