Accurate and continuous level measurement is a fundamental requirement for safe and efficient industrial operations. From storage tanks to process vessels, maintaining the correct material level prevents overflows, ensures product consistency, and optimizes system performance.
The VEGAPULS 66 is a non-contact radar level transmitter designed to deliver high accuracy, stability, and reliability under the most challenging conditions. Manufactured by Vega, it’s engineered for precise measurement of liquids, pastes, and bulk solids — even in extreme pressure, temperature, or vapor conditions.
This article explores the VEGAPULS 66’s working principle, features, benefits, and applications across diverse industries.
What Is the VEGAPULS 66?
The VEGAPULS 66 is a radar-based level transmitter that provides continuous, non-contact level measurement.
It uses microwave radar pulses to determine the distance between the sensor and the product surface. Because it measures without direct contact, it remains unaffected by pressure, temperature, foam, or dust — ensuring accurate, maintenance-free performance.
The VEGAPULS 66 belongs to Vega’s high-performance radar family and is widely used in chemical, food, energy, and wastewater applications where reliability and precision are non-negotiable.
How the VEGAPULS 66 Works
The VEGAPULS 66 operates on the time-of-flight principle of radar measurement.
Here’s how it works:
The transmitter emits microwave radar pulses toward the surface of the medium.
These pulses reflect back from the surface to the antenna.
The instrument measures the time delay between the transmitted and reflected pulses.
Using the known speed of light, it calculates the distance to the medium surface.
This distance is then converted into a continuous level measurement signal.
Since radar signals are unaffected by process conditions like vapor, temperature, or foam, the VEGAPULS 66 provides consistent accuracy even in challenging environments.
Key Features of the VEGAPULS 66 Radar Level Transmitter
1. Non-Contact Radar Measurement
Measures level without touching the process medium — eliminating contamination and mechanical wear.
2. Exceptional Accuracy
Delivers measurement accuracy up to ±2 mm, ensuring reliable readings for both liquids and solids.
3. Wide Application Range
Handles temperatures up to +400°C (752°F) and pressures up to 160 bar (2320 psi).
4. Robust and Durable Design
Constructed with corrosion-resistant materials for operation in aggressive chemical and high-pressure environments.
5. Resistant to Process Conditions
Unaffected by vapor, foam, dust, or gas layers — providing dependable performance where ultrasonic sensors may fail.
6. Various Antenna Designs
Available with PTFE, PP, stainless steel horn, or lens antennas, suitable for specific application needs.
7. Flexible Communication Options
Supports HART®, Profibus PA®, and FOUNDATION Fieldbus™ for integration into digital control systems.
8. Maintenance-Free Operation
No moving parts, ensuring long service life and minimal maintenance.
9. Simple Setup and Configuration
Features intuitive setup via VEGA PACTware™ or display module, reducing commissioning time.
Advantages of Using the VEGAPULS 66
1. Reliable in Harsh Environments
Performs accurately in extreme temperature, pressure, or vapor conditions.
2. Maintenance-Free and Durable
Non-contact design eliminates the risk of clogging, corrosion, or mechanical damage.
3. Stable Performance
Delivers consistent measurements even in turbulent or foamy surfaces.
4. Universal Compatibility
Measures a wide range of materials, from liquids and viscous fluids to powders and bulk solids.
5. Cost Efficiency
Long operational life and reduced maintenance minimize total ownership cost.
6. Easy Installation
Compact design and flexible mounting options simplify installation in both new and existing systems.
7. Enhanced Process Safety
Continuous, accurate measurement ensures safe operation and prevents overfilling or dry-run conditions.
Applications of the VEGAPULS 66
The VEGAPULS 66 is used across multiple industries due to its adaptability and accuracy.
1. Chemical and Petrochemical
Measures level in reactors, distillation columns, and chemical storage tanks.
Performs well with aggressive and corrosive liquids.
2. Oil and Gas
Suitable for crude oil tanks, separators, and refineries.
Handles vapor, high pressure, and fluctuating temperatures.
3. Power Generation
Used for feedwater, condensate, and steam drum level monitoring.
Provides stability in high-temperature environments.
4. Water and Wastewater Treatment
Ideal for sludge tanks, clarifiers, and reservoirs.
Unaffected by vapor or foam during aeration processes.
5. Food and Beverage
Ensures hygienic measurement in silos, mixing vessels, and storage tanks.
Available with sanitary fittings for clean-in-place (CIP) applications.
6. Mining and Bulk Solids Handling
Accurately measures level in silos, hoppers, and bins.
Works effectively with powders, grains, and dusty media.
7. Pharmaceutical and Biotech
Provides sterile, non-contact measurement suitable for hygienic and validated environments.
Technical Specifications Overview
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Measurement Range | Up to 75 m (246 ft) |
| Accuracy | ±2 mm |
| Process Temperature | -196°C to +400°C |
| Process Pressure | -1 to 160 bar |
| Frequency Range | 26 GHz |
| Output Signal | 4–20 mA, HART, Profibus PA, or Fieldbus |
| Antenna Options | Horn, Lens, PTFE, or PP Antennas |
| Housing Material | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, or Plastic |
Maintenance and Best Practices
To ensure long-term accuracy and reliability of the VEGAPULS 66:
Ensure the antenna is kept clean, especially in sticky or dusty applications.
Mount the sensor at an angle that avoids direct interference from tank internals.
Periodically check alignment and grounding connections.
Use built-in diagnostics to monitor echo signal quality.
For solids, avoid installations directly above filling streams to prevent signal reflection issues.
With minimal maintenance requirements, the VEGAPULS 66 delivers years of uninterrupted performance.
Why Choose The Transmitter Shop
The Transmitter Shop (TTS) supplies new and remanufactured radar level transmitters such as the VEGAPULS 66 — factory-calibrated and performance-tested to meet industrial standards.
Why Industries Trust TTS:
Factory-tested and certified instruments
Compatibility with leading brands and process systems
Competitive pricing without compromising quality
Quick delivery and technical assistance
Proven reliability across critical process environments
Every instrument provided by TTS ensures accuracy, reliability, and long-term operational value — supporting consistent and efficient process control.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What type of measurement does the VEGAPULS 66 perform?
It provides non-contact, continuous level measurement for liquids, pastes, and bulk solids.
2. Can it handle high temperatures or pressures?
Yes. The VEGAPULS 66 is rated for temperatures up to +400°C and pressures up to 160 bar.
3. Is it suitable for foamy or vapor-heavy environments?
Yes. Radar signals are unaffected by foam, vapor, or dust, ensuring reliable readings.
4. Does it require calibration?
No. The VEGAPULS 66 is factory-calibrated and ready to use, requiring minimal field setup.
5. What communication options are available?
It supports 4–20 mA, HART, Profibus PA, and FOUNDATION Fieldbus for flexible integration.
Conclusion
The VEGAPULS 66 Radar Level Transmitter stands out as one of the most dependable and precise instruments for level measurement across industries. Its non-contact radar technology ensures consistent, maintenance-free performance — even in conditions where temperature, pressure, or vapor would challenge other technologies.
