Level measurement in mobile toilet facilities

The self-sufficient VEGAPULS Air 23 radar sensors do not require a process connection or cables. This makes them perfectly suited for deployment on mobile containers. They are ideal for measurement in IBCs and other types of plastic containers. This is because the sensors can reliably detect liquids and bulk solids by looking through a closed container top, . Thanks to their energy-efficient functionality, the sensors can be operated for ten years or more without having to be recharged.

What exactly do the radar sensors measure?

The VEGAPULS Air 23 sensors currently fulfil two tasks for one of the leading suppliers of mobile latrines and sanitary containers: 

• Continuous level measurement in fresh water tanks:
  Many containerised toilets have a fresh water tank for washbasins and flushing. The sensors reliably determine the levels in those tanks. Strict hygiene requirements apply to drinking water, which is why non-contact 80-GHz radar technology is ideal for this application. Because the sensors measure right through the plastic top, the tanks do not need to be opened or modified to allow for installation.

• Continuous level measurement in wastewater tanks:
  With no connection to a sewer, the mobile sanitary containers are fitted with wastewater tanks. VEGAPULS Air 23 monitors their levels regularly with precision. They are installed in the containers in a way that protects their ability to measure reliably despite the rigours of frequent transport and maintains the stackability of the containers.

The measured values are sent wirelessly at a specific rate from the respective location of the containers to VEGA Inventory System. The software collects the data from all the containers and displays it graphically in a traffic light system (green, orange, red). When a container needs to be refilled or emptied, it transmits an appropriate signal automatically and in good time. 

To find out what VEGAPULS Air 23 can withstand, extensive tests were carried out in the test phase of development. The functionality of the self-sufficient level sensors must be guaranteed and not impaired by regular transport, setup and dismantling, and jolts from rough handling. They also have to withstand wind, weather as well as other environmental effects like splashing on the sensor face. 

The system makes it possible for companies in this sector to keep an eye on the levels of all their fresh water and waste water tanks at all times. This ensures efficient planning of service routes, saving many kilometres of driving and costly emergency service trips. At the same time, it ensures the immaculate cleanliness of the mobile sanitary containers - and satisfied toilet users.