Emerson Rosemount 5081 Radar Level Transmitter 4-20mA HART IP66

The Rosemount 5081 is a high-performance, two-wire, non-contact radar level transmitter designed for reliable and accurate continuous level measurement in a vast array of demanding industrial applications. As part of Emerson's extensive portfolio of level instrumentation, the 5081 is engineered to overcome the challenges that plague other measurement technologies, such as changing process conditions, temperature extremes, high pressure, and the presence of vapors, dust, or foam. Utilizing advanced Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar technology, it provides a superior, maintenance-free solution for measuring liquids, slurries, and some solids in metal tanks and vessels, making it an indispensable tool for optimizing process control and inventory management.

The Rosemount 5081 operates on the principle of FMCW radar, a sophisticated and highly accurate method for determining distance. Unlike pulsed radar time-of-flight systems, the 5081 continuously transmits a microwave signal whose frequency increases linearly over time. This transmitted signal travels at the speed of light down to the process material's surface, is reflected, and is then received by the same antenna. Due to the time delay, the frequency of the returning echo is slightly different from the signal being transmitted at that exact moment.

The transmitter's internal circuitry mixes these transmitted and received signals, creating a low-frequency "beat" signal. The frequency of this beat signal is directly proportional to the distance to the product surface. By precisely measuring this frequency, the 5081 can calculate the exact level with exceptional accuracy and reliability. This FMCW method provides a stronger signal return and better signal-to-noise ratio compared to pulsed radar, resulting in superior performance in applications with low dielectric constants, swirling vapors, or turbulent surfaces.

A standout feature of the Rosemount 5081 is its two-wire design. This allows it to receive operating power and transmit its measurement output over the same standard 4-20 mA two-wire loop used by conventional transmitters. This drastically simplifies installation by eliminating the need for separate power cables, reducing wiring costs, conduit space, and overall complexity.

The transmitter is renowned for its robust construction and resilience in harsh environments. It is housed in an aluminum enclosure with a durable epoxy coating, rated NEMA 4X / IP66, ensuring protection against water, dust, and corrosive atmospheres. It can operate effectively under extreme process conditions, handling pressures up to 580 psi (40 bar) and temperatures from -40°C to 200°C (-40°F to 392°F) with a pressurized antenna system.

Furthermore, the 5081 is equipped with powerful Heartbeat Technology™, an embedded self-diagnostic system. This technology provides continuous monitoring of the transmitter's health and verification of its measurement performance without requiring any process interruption. It can alert users to potential issues before they affect the measurement, enabling predictive maintenance and ensuring unparalleled measurement confidence for custody transfer, inventory control, and critical process applications.

The Rosemount 5081's versatility allows it to be deployed across countless industries:

• Oil & Gas: Level measurement in crude oil storage tanks, separation vessels, and water/oil interfaces in produced water treaters.

• Chemical Processing: Reliable measurement of corrosive liquids, solvents, and aggressive chemicals in reactors and storage tanks.

• Power Generation: Monitoring water level in deaerators and feedwater heaters, and measuring limestone slurry in flue gas desulfurization (FGD) systems.

• Water & Wastewater: Accurate level control in clarifiers, treatment basins, and chemical storage tanks.

• Pulp & Paper: Measuring black liquor, green liquor, and other stock in various process tanks.

In summary, the Rosemount 5081 Radar Level Transmitter represents a fusion of sophisticated FMCW radar technology, rugged design, and intelligent diagnostics. It offers a non-contact, maintenance-free solution that delivers exceptional accuracy and reliability where other technologies fail. By providing trustworthy level data in the most challenging conditions, it empowers plants to enhance process safety, improve operational efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure the integrity of their inventory and process control systems.