Liquid Level Indicators

What Is A Liquid Level Indicator?

A liquid level indicator detects the point at which liquid reaches a certain level in a tank, pipe, or vessel. Coltraco’s ultrasonic sensors do this externally, using sound waves to identify the presence of liquid without needing direct contact.

The device works by measuring the liquid level and detecting any change in the level. When a change occurs, the sensor quantifies the new level and converts it into an electrical signal, ensuring accurate monitoring.

This method does not require internal access, making it ideal for testing sealed units, plastic tanks, or equipment.

These units work with various types of liquids and containers, and can measure different types of media, including oil, water, chemicals, and hot and cold drinks. From milk dispensers to industrial oil tanks, our technology adapts to your environment and is used across industries such as pharmaceuticals.

How Do Coltraco’s Ultrasonic Level Indicators Work?

Each sensor emits a high-frequency pulse that passes through the tank wall. When this pulse hits the liquid inside, it reflects back to the sensor, allowing the unit to determine if liquid is present. The measuring process is simple, the time taken for the reflected signal to return is used to calculate the liquid level accurately.

This technology uses a piezoelectric crystal and ultrasound gel to ensure a reliable connection between the sensor and the surface. The system detects fluid levels even through resistant materials like glass or plastic and works whether the liquid is hot or cold.

You do not need to modify your tanks or interrupt service. Our ultrasonic level detectors operate while the equipment is live, reducing the need for downtime or draining.

Which Models Are Available?

Portatank® – For Tanks

The Portatank® is a handheld ultrasonic level indicator for tanks from 0.5 to over 15 metres. It works with multiple surfaces, including plastic, metal, and glass, regardless of wall thickness.

• Measures fluid levels in tanks used for oil, water, or chemicals.
• Requires no internal installation.
• Built-in display for real-time data.
• Comes with a handheld oscilloscope to ensure accurate calibration.

  One Portatank® unit can be used across various tanks, making it ideal for maintenance teams and service engineers.

  There is a choice of Portatank® models available, allowing users to select the right option depending on the substance being measured, tank material, and installation environment.

Portapipe® – For Pipes

The Portapipe® works in horizontal or vertical pipes between 25mm and 330mm in diameter. It delivers ±1% accuracy in detecting liquid levels.

• Useful for cold liquid and hot fluid systems.
• Helps monitor flow in industrial and food processing environments.
• Requires minimal access space.
• Ideal for testing equipment without dismantling or draining.
  
  A range of Portapipe® models gives users the choice to select the most suitable device for their specific pipe size, liquid type, and application requirements.

Where Are Liquid Level Indicators Used?

Our liquid level indicators are suitable for both national and global markets. They are trusted in sectors including:

• Power generation – monitor oil levels in transformers and RMUs.
• Water treatment – detect fluid levels in tanks and pipes.
• Food production – manage hot and cold drinks, milk storage, or cup-based liquid dispensers.
• Chemical handling – measure contents in resistant plastic tanks without risk of contamination.
• Marine and offshore – maintain fluid levels in harsh environments.

In a real-world example, the Portatank® provided more accurate readings than a float gauge in a Yorkshire switchgear application, helping validate fluid measurements quickly.

For more information about specific applications or products, please contact us or visit our product pages.

What Makes Our Indicators Different?

Coltraco’s technology stands out for its precision, portability, and wide compatibility. Each unit includes features designed for ease of use in real environments:

• Detects most fluids, including oil, water, and chemicals.
• Works on plastic, glass, and metal without installation.
• Small footprint – suitable for tight access points.
• Built-in magnet and gel ensure proper signal connection.
• No contamination risk or disruption to systems.

Unlike a typical water level sensor or other types of level sensors, Coltraco’s indicators allow liquid levels to be measured accurately without direct contact or system interruption. You can use our indicators to cross-check float gauges, test sight glasses, or verify data from internal sensors. This gives you added confidence in your system’s performance.

How Do You Choose the Right Level Indicator?

When making your choice of level indicator, consider your container type, fluid, and access restrictions to choose the right indicator. Coltraco offers options suited to almost every requirement, including:

• Ultrasonic level detection in sealed equipment
• Portable units for testing multiple tanks or pipes
• Indicators for hot liquids, cold liquids, or milk-based products
• Equipment designed for plastic and resistant containers

If you need help, our team will guide you through the most suitable system for your application. You can also view listings from trusted distributors or contact us directly.

Why Trust Coltraco for Your Fluid Level Needs?

Our ultrasonic level indicators are made in the UK and used worldwide. Every unit is built for reliability and accuracy, offering a dependable way to manage fluid levels across all sectors.

We work with maintenance teams, engineers, site managers, and global companies to deliver non-invasive, user-friendly solutions.

Our technology helps reduce service time, improve safety, and protect your equipment from unnecessary wear or error.

Whether you’re testing hydraulic systems, checking the level in a tank, or maintaining a basket of units, our sensors give you the results you need – quickly and precisely.

Ready to Upgrade Your Liquid Level Detection?

If you’re looking for a trusted liquid level indicator, Coltraco has a solution for your system. Contact us today to speak to a member of our team.

We’ll help you find the best unit for your application and ensure smooth, effective integration into your process.