Bitumen Tank Level Monitoring That Prevents Overfills and Downtime
Bitumen tank level monitoring plays a vital role in the asphalt production process, ensuring both safety and cost-efficiency. Bitumen, a viscous byproduct of crude oil refining, acts as a binder in asphalt used for roads, bridges, and waterproofing applications. Because it solidifies at room temperature, bitumen must be stored in heated, insulated tanks—commonly referred to as bitumen tanks—at elevated temperatures ranging from 140°C to 180°C.
In this environment, reliable level measurement and overfill protection are not optional—they are essential. Without accurate data on tank contents, operators risk overfilling, underutilizing capacity, or encountering unplanned downtime. Jiwei provides a comprehensive level monitoring solution specifically tailored to bitumen tanks, combining high-performance radar level meters and robust point level switches.
Why Bitumen Tank Monitoring Is Critical
Bitumen is costly, hazardous at high temperatures, and difficult to handle due to its viscosity. Bitumen tanks are often installed at asphalt plants and must operate continuously without measurement failure. Some key challenges include:
- Steam and vapor interference
- Heavy buildup on probe surfaces
- High process temperatures
- Viscous, sticky material behavior
Traditional contact-type level instruments often suffer from mechanical wear, clogging, or inaccurate readings in such environments. That’s why contactless, high-frequency radar sensors and fork-type level switches are preferred.
Jiwei’s Rada-31 Radar Level Meter: Accurate, Maintenance-Free Monitoring
Jiwei’s Rada-31 is an 80GHz FMCW radar level meter designed for difficult applications like bitumen tanks. With its narrow beam angle and high-frequency signal, Rada-31 provides continuous, reliable measurements even in the presence of vapor, condensation, or tank obstructions.
Key Advantages:
- Contactless Measurement: No risk of fouling or mechanical wear
- Withstands High Temperatures: Operates in environments up to 200°C with proper flange insulation
- Bluetooth Configuration: Adjust parameters safely using the Jiwei Zhikong Mini-App
- False Echo Suppression: Maintains accuracy in small or complex tank geometries
The Rada-31 mounts conveniently on top of horizontal or vertical tanks and integrates with common control systems via 4–20mA and HART protocols.
Jiwei Ring-11 Fork Liquid Level Switch: Safety for High-Level Detection
For high-level alarms and overfill prevention, Jiwei’s Ring-11 Fork Liquid Level Switch provides a reliable and rugged solution. Installed at the top of the bitumen tank, Ring-11 triggers an alert when the bitumen reaches a preset level, enabling operators to take immediate action.
Product Highlights:
- Short 40mm Fork: Ideal for compact or narrow-nozzle installations
- High Sensitivity: Responds reliably to sticky, high-viscosity media
- Corrosion and Heat Resistance: Handles harsh tank conditions
- SIL2/SIL3 Certified: Meets international standards for functional safety
- Ultra-High Temperature Resistance (Up to 280°C): Industry-leading performance that outclasses conventional competitors
This switch is a key safety device that complements continuous radar measurement and ensures compliance with overfill protection regulations.
Application Scenario: Asphalt Mixing Plant
At a modern asphalt mixing facility, multiple bitumen tanks feed a central processing line. Operators must track real-time levels and be alerted before tanks overflow. A typical configuration includes:
| Application Area | Jiwei Product | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous Level Monitoring | Rada-31 Radar Level Meter | Precise, contactless measurement |
| Point Level Detection | Ring-11 Fork Liquid Level Switch | High-level safety alert, SIL qualified |
With these instruments, plant managers achieve operational efficiency, reduce the risk of spillage, and ensure uninterrupted bitumen supply to the mixing process.
Why Choose Jiwei for Bitumen Tank Measurement?
Jiwei specializes in level measurement instruments engineered for difficult process conditions. Our radar and tuning fork solutions for bitumen tanks offer:
- Long-term reliability in hot, sticky, and harsh environments
- User-friendly setup and diagnostics with wireless tools
- Compliance with safety and process standards, including SIL2/3
- Proven success in Chinese and international asphalt production markets
Final Thoughts
Optimizing your bitumen tank level monitoring not only prevents costly overfills but also improves the overall efficiency and safety of your asphalt production. Jiwei’s Rada-31 radar level meter and Ring-11 tuning fork switch work together to deliver continuous measurement and fail-safe point detection under the most demanding conditions. Whether upgrading an old facility or planning a new asphalt plant, investing in reliable level instrumentation pays off in every ton of asphalt produced.