Non-contacting radar transmitters for water, wastewater and process applications 

Emerson has introduced the Rosemount 1208 Level and Flow Transmitter Series non-contacting radar transmitters to help increase the operational efficiency of water, wastewater and process industry utility applications. The 1208 Series delivers reliable and accurate level and open channel flow measurements, enabling organisations to increase the efficiency of their operations and achieve environmental compliance.

Operators in the water and wastewater, food and beverage, chemical and other process industries often deploy ultrasonic and hydrostatic devices for water monitoring applications when radar transmitters are considered too expensive, bulky or complex. 

The Rosemount 1208 is a new alternative, featuring 80GHz fast-sweep frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) technology on a single electronic chip, which delivers accurate and reliable measurement within a compact and cost-effective device ideal for applications with space constraints or compliance requirements, such as water applications.

Unlike ultrasonic and hydrostatic devices, the measurement accuracy and reliability of the Rosemount 1208 line is unaffected by most process conditions, including condensation and variations in pressure, temperature and density. 

By using fast-sweep FMCW technology and advanced algorithms, the new transmitter family can collect up to 40 times more information than legacy radar devices. This provides level measurement accuracy of ±0.08-in (2 mm) at a range of 49ft (15m), helping organisations optimise processes and comply with environmental requirements. In addition, the non-contacting design has no moving parts or calibration requirements, creating a virtually maintenance-free device that minimises manual procedures and delivers long-term performance and reliability.

The transmitter is available in two models, offering different communication protocols and approvals. The Rosemount 1208A is the first radar transmitter designed specifically for water and process industry utility applications to offer IO-Link connectivity as part of its hybrid communication options that also include three-wire 4-20 mA and switch outputs. IO-Link connectivity reduces installation complexity, enables simple integration into high-level automation networks, and provides access to process insights that can enhance operational performance. It further reduces complexity by enabling remote configuration and monitoring.

The Rosemount 1208C offers two-wire 4-20 mA and HART communication options, providing access to advanced diagnostics. This supports predictive maintenance and more effective troubleshooting, leading to reduced downtime and improved operational efficiency. Hazardous area approval enables use in areas where an explosive gas atmosphere could occur during normal operation.

“Improved monitoring within water, wastewater and process industry utility applications is essential to help optimise processes and create operational efficiency improvements,” said Felix Johansson, associate solutions manager for Emerson’s radar level business. “Emerson’s advanced radar technology is simple to order, install, operate and maintain. Designed specifically for these applications, it provides a step-change increase in measurement performance and process visibility to help operators maximise the potential of their plant.”