Keller’s non-fouling level transmitter solves tough measurement problem

In wastewater measurement, accurate readings are essential to ensuring proper pump operation. A failure in this area can result in unhygienic liquid waste overflow and costly repairs to pump mechanisms. 

In Newport News, Virginia, several restaurants were built in an area serviced by the same municipal wastewater lift stations. These restaurants introduced heavy grease content to the wastewater and caused the municipality’s existing level measurement equipment to foul and fail.

Antiquated solutions

Before development of the commercial district, Newport News Waterworks and Hampton Roads Sanitation District relied on a combination of mechanical floats and traditional submersible level transmitters. However, with the restaurants in operation, the increased volume of grease clung to both instruments and, as a result, the primary and redundant level measurement failed to properly transmit level data to the pump controller. 

The accumulation of grease to the submersible level transmitter clogged the pressure ports that blocked the free flow of liquid and proper application of hydrostatic pressure to the sensing diaphragm. On the redundant float switch, which should trigger the pump in the event of a failed level transmitter, the accumulation of grease blocked the mechanical operation of the float ball. With the level transmitter and backup system inoperable, the affected lift stations failed, either reading too much wastewater or too little, thus causing the pumps to run continuously or not at all. 

Ideal solution

Several instrumentation companies offer non-fouling solutions with only minor variations of the existing and unsuitable solutions. These instruments use a Teflon-coated elastomer diaphragm, which is relatively weak and prone to puncture. Their answer is to use a bulky protective cage, consisting of a shield mounted on bolts and standoffs. However, these shields can collect rags, grease and biosolids in the wastewater, which leads to erroneous readings. 

Newport News officials contacted Keller America, whose LevelRat provided a unique approach to wastewater level measurement. 

The tougher Kynar diaphragm used on the LevelRat provides superior abrasion and puncture resistance relative to other wastewater level transmitter solutions. This design also minimizes the 36 XKY profile, creating a sleeker design without the need for bulky shields. The result is a truly non-fouling instrument that provides superior operation in environments that would clog traditional level transmitters.

The LevelRat is specifically designed for extended service in lift stations and, thanks to Keller’s guaranteed lightning protection, the unit is ideal for areas prone to chronic lightning damage. The LevelRat is assembled in the U.S. to customer specifications, including custom pressure ranges and cable lengths.


Keller America is a leading manufacturer of level and pressure measurement instrumentation headquartered in Newport News, Virginia.

877-253-5537   www.kelleramerica.com



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