What Is a Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter?
In modern industrial automation, accurate and stable liquid level measurement is essential for process control, safety management, and inventory monitoring. Industries such as petroleum, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and water treatment increasingly rely on high-precision level instruments to ensure reliable operation.Among the many level measurement technologies available today, the magnetostrictive level transmitter stands out for its exceptional accuracy, long-term stability, and durability in harsh environments. With a non-contact, wear-free measurement structure and superior repeatability, it has become one of the most trusted solutions for critical liquid level monitoring.
This article provides an in-depth explanation of what a magnetostrictive level transmitter is, how it works, where it is used, different types available, how to choose the right model, pricing considerations, and OEM/manufacturer information — especially for applications requiring high reliability and industrial precision.
What Is a Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter?
A magnetostrictive level transmitter is a high-precision instrument that measures liquid level using the magnetostrictive effect. It delivers continuous, real-time, and extremely accurate level readings with long-term stability. Because the sensing principle has no moving parts, the instrument provides maintenance-free performance and a long service life.
Key Characteristics
High accuracy and repeatability
Fast response time (<1 second)
Non-contact magnetic measurement
Suitable for harsh and corrosive environments
Compatible with hazardous or sanitary applications
Flexible installation (thread, flange, customised)
Magnetostrictive transmitters are widely used in industrial tanks, vessels, underground fuel tanks, reservoirs, and any environment requiring precise and stable liquid monitoring.
How Does a Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter Work?
The magnetostrictive level transmitter is based on the magnetostrictive principle, utilising the interaction between magnetic fields and mechanical waves.
Working Principle Explained
A waveguide wire runs the length of the probe inside the transmitter.
A magnetic float travels along the rod or cable, rising or falling with the liquid level.
When a current pulse passes through the waveguide, it interacts with the magnetic field generated by the float.
This creates a torsional strain pulse along the waveguide.
The sensor at the transmitter head detects the returning wave.
The time difference between the electrical pulse and the returned torsional wave is directly proportional to the liquid level.
Why the Technology Is Highly Accurate
The measurement is based on time-of-flight, not mechanical motion.
No drift over time, providing excellent long-term stability.
Immune to temperature changes, electrical noise, and mechanical wear.
No moving parts — ensuring almost zero maintenance.
This combination of precision and reliability makes magnetostrictive technology one of the most stable level measurement solutions on the market.
Applications of Magnetostrictive Level Transmitters
Magnetostrictive level transmitters are chosen for applications where accuracy, durability, and stability are critical.
1. Petroleum & Chemical Industry
Storage tanks
Reactors
Process vessels
Additive tanks
Ensures reliable measurement in flammable, corrosive, or high-pressure environments.
2. Pharmaceutical & Food Processing
Sanitary tanks
Mixing vessels
Ingredient storage
Provides hygienic, stable, and repeatable readings for regulated industries.
3. Water & Wastewater Treatment
Reservoirs
Pumping stations
Sewage pools
Dams
Suitable for large-range measurement with flexible cable models.
4. Industrial Fluid Management
Oil inventory and distribution
Industrial coolant tanks
Process fluid containers
Supports real-time monitoring and automated control.
5. Fuel Storage & Logistics
Underground petrol tanks
Diesel storage tanks
Fuel distribution systems
Highly stable for long-term underground tank monitoring.
6. General Process Control
Any environment requiring high-precision level measurement — especially where safety and accuracy are critical.
Types of Magnetostrictive Level Transmitters
ZINACA Instruments offers magnetostrictive transmitters in several configurations to meet different industrial requirements.
1. Rigid Rod Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter
Measurement range: 150–6000 mm
Suitable for small to medium tanks
High mechanical strength
Ideal for sanitary and chemical processes
2. Flexible Cable Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter
Measurement range: 150–30000 mm
Perfect for large tanks, reservoirs, or deep wells
Easy to transport and install
Cost-effective for long measurement ranges
3. Output Options
4–20mA
RS485 Modbus
HART communication
These allow seamless integration with DCS, PLC, SCADA, or industrial IoT systems.
4. Temperature Options
Standard: –40°C to 110°C
High-temperature models up to 250°C available
5. Process Connection Types
3/4" NPT
Flange (DN25/DN50/custom)
Customer-specific connections
How to Choose the Right Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter
Choosing the correct transmitter ensures optimal performance and long-term stability.
1. Determine the Measurement Range
Rigid rod for short/medium tanks
Flexible cable for long tanks or reservoirs
2. Identify the Medium
Oil
Water
Chemicals
High-temperature liquids
Corrosive fluids
Choose proper float material and probe protection accordingly.
3. Select the Output Signal
4–20mA for general industrial use
RS-485/Modbus for digital data
HART for advanced diagnostics
4. Confirm Process Temperature
Standard: up to 110°C
High-temperature model: up to 250°C
5. Choose the Mounting Connection
Threaded
Flanged
Customized installation
6. Consider Environmental Conditions
Dust
Moisture
Chemical vapors
Outdoor or underground placement
Select IP66/IP67 models for harsh environments.
Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter Price
The price of a magnetostrictive level transmitter varies based on:
Measurement length
Rigid rod or flexible cable configuration
Output type (4–20mA, RS485, HART)
Temperature rating
Process connection (thread or flange)
Material selection
Application environment
Custom Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter OEM
ZINACA Instruments provides professional OEM customization for global industrial clients.
Our engineering team supports:
Custom probe lengths
Special float designs
Sanitary and high-temperature models
Communication protocol customization
Branding/labeling customization
Specialized flange and threaded connections
If you require a tailored solution for your industrial process, ZINACA can design a reliable, intelligent, and cost-effective transmitter optimized for your application.
Magnetostrictive Level Transmitter Supplier
ZINACA Instruments is a trusted global supplier specializing in industrial automation instruments. As a professional manufacturer of magnetostrictive level transmitters, we provide:
High-precision measurement
Long-term stability
Robust build quality
Strong EMC protection
Fast delivery and technical support
OEM/ODM services
Our products serve industries including petrochemical, pharmaceutical, food & beverage, metallurgy, water treatment, and energy systems worldwide.