Portable sensor for monitoring the filling of oil tanks developed at NSTU

Engineers at Novosibirsk State Technical University have created a portable device that measures the filling level of tanks with petroleum products. The development is distinguished by its smaller size and reduced cost compared to foreign analogues, while maintaining measurement accuracy at the level of professional equipment.

The task of monitoring the oil level in storage facilities is complicated by the presence of bottom sediments and bottom water. Previously, a special tape measure with a load was used for these purposes: the tape was treated with paste, immersed in the medium, and repeatedly raised to verify the readings. The method required manual labor and became ineffective at low temperatures, particularly in the conditions of the Far North.

The new prototype consists of a submersible sensor and an indicator unit connected by a tape with millimeter markings and a three-wire communication line. Inside the sensor, there is a high-frequency ultrasonic wave generator, an electrical conductivity sensor, and a temperature sensor. Signals from these elements allow determining the type of medium and its temperature. The data is transmitted to an indicator with an LCD display, where the operator sees the result and receives audible and visual alerts, unique to each medium.

A pilot batch of devices has already been manufactured on the basis of the university in cooperation with an industrial partner. The devices have been tested at oil fields in the northern regions of Russia, have been certified and approved.