In small storage tanks, narrow-opening vessels, and hydrological monitoring stations, the size of a radar level meter’s process connection often directly affects instrument selection and installation.
Some conventional radar level meters use relatively large threaded or flanged process connections. When an existing opening is small, installation space is limited, or modification of the existing structure is impractical, users may encounter connection mismatches, increased installation difficulty, and additional construction work.
To meet the requirements of small process connections, limited installation space, and distributed measuring points, Shenzhen Jiwei Automations Ltd. has launched the JWrada®-20 radar level meter.
The instrument features a G3/4 threaded process connection and integrates 80 GHz frequency-modulated continuous-wave technology. It offers a level measurement range of up to 10 meters and an accuracy of ±1 mm. The product is primarily designed for water management, hydrological monitoring, small storage tanks, and general industrial level measurement applications.
G3/4 Threaded Connection Reduces Installation Requirements
The JWrada®-20 features a miniature, compact design and uses a G3/4 threaded process connection, reducing the required vessel opening size and installation space.
Compared with large threaded or flanged connections, its small process connection is particularly suitable for the following applications:
- Small storage tanks;
- Narrow-opening vessels;
- Open water basins;
- Open channels and rivers;
- Pumping stations and drainage systems;
- Industrial measuring points with restricted installation space.
In retrofit projects involving existing measuring points, the G3/4 threaded connection can help reduce the need for opening enlargement, bracket adjustment, and structural modification caused by incompatible process connections.
For measuring points currently equipped with ultrasonic level meters, users can evaluate upgrading to radar level measurement based on the existing opening dimensions, measuring range, medium characteristics, and environmental conditions.
The JWrada®-20 also features a lightweight nylon plastic enclosure suitable for general outdoor environments and conventional industrial sites.
80 GHz FMCW Radar Level Measurement Technology
The JWrada®-20 radar level meter uses 80 GHz frequency-modulated continuous-wave technology.
During operation, the antenna continuously transmits high-frequency electromagnetic waves whose frequency changes linearly over time. It then receives the echo signal reflected from the surface of the measured medium.
The transmitted and reflected signals are mixed to generate an intermediate-frequency signal. Fast Fourier transform analysis is then used to calculate the distance between the antenna and the medium surface. This distance is subsequently converted into a level reading.
Compared with some lower-frequency radar measurement technologies, an 80 GHz signal has a shorter wavelength and a more focused beam. This helps the instrument identify target echoes through smaller installation openings and within confined spaces.
A Focused Beam Helps Reduce Interference from Surrounding Structures
In storage tanks, mixing vessels, and complex containers, tank walls, feed inlets, mounting brackets, internal components, and surrounding obstacles can all generate reflected signals.
When interference echoes overlap with the true surface echo, the measured value may fluctuate, or the instrument may incorrectly identify the measurement target.
The JWrada®-20 uses 80 GHz radar technology with a relatively narrow and focused beam, helping to reduce the influence of tank walls, mounting brackets, and nearby structures on the measurement signal.
This characteristic makes the instrument particularly suitable for narrow-opening vessels, small storage tanks, and level measurement applications with limited internal space.
Intelligent Echo Processing Improves Measurement Stability
In addition to 80 GHz FMCW measurement technology, the JWrada®-20 is equipped with Jiwei’s independently developed intelligent echo-learning algorithm.
The algorithm provides false-echo identification, multiple-echo separation, and dynamic target-tracking functions.
False-Echo Identification
Based on the echo characteristics at the installation site, the instrument can analyze reflected signals generated by tank walls, mounting brackets, feed inlets, and other fixed structures.
This function helps reduce the influence of fixed interference echoes on the measurement result.
Multiple-Echo Separation
When several echo targets are present in the measurement environment, the instrument can identify and separate the different echoes, helping it determine the valid liquid-surface signal in a complex echo profile.
Dynamic Target Tracking
The instrument can continuously track the valid target according to the liquid level’s changing trend.
This helps reduce the effects of filling, emptying, surface fluctuations, and other operating-condition changes on measurement stability.
Bluetooth Commissioning Reduces the Need for Enclosure Opening and Temporary Wiring
For commissioning and parameter management, the JWrada®-20 is equipped with an integrated Bluetooth 5.0 module.
It can be used with the Jiwei Smart Control® WeChat Mini Program and mobile application, allowing on-site personnel to perform the following operations using a smartphone or another mobile device:
- Configure radar level meter parameters;
- View real-time level measurements;
- Monitor instrument operating status;
- Read device information;
- Adjust commissioning parameters.
Wireless commissioning reduces the need to open the instrument enclosure, make temporary wiring connections, or carry dedicated commissioning equipment.
It is especially suitable for instruments installed at elevated positions, widely distributed measuring points, and applications where physical access to the instrument is restricted.
HART or Modbus Communication Support
The JWrada®-20 is available with HART or Modbus communication and can be connected to control systems, data acquisition systems, and digital management platforms for level data transmission and device status management.
Depending on the project’s control architecture and communication requirements, the radar level meter can be integrated into:
- PLC control systems;
- DCS control systems;
- SCADA monitoring systems;
- Hydrological data acquisition systems;
- Pumping station and drainage management platforms;
- Enterprise asset and equipment management platforms.
Remote Commissioning, Software Upgrades, and Operating-Status Monitoring
In addition to local Bluetooth commissioning, the JWrada®-20 supports remote commissioning, software upgrades, and operating-status monitoring through cloud-based data networks.
Engineers can analyze instrument operation using uploaded device parameters, measurement status information, and echo data. Relevant parameters can then be adjusted according to the actual operating conditions.
For projects involving rivers, reservoirs, pumping stations, drainage systems, and distributed storage tanks, where measuring points are numerous and geographically dispersed, remote management functions can reduce some routine inspections and repeated site visits for commissioning.
The software upgrade function also allows the instrument program to be updated after installation according to product-version and functional requirements, supporting subsequent maintenance and functional optimization.
Typical Applications of the JWrada®-20 Radar Level Meter
The JWrada®-20 integrates a G3/4 threaded connection, 80 GHz FMCW measurement, intelligent echo processing, Bluetooth wireless commissioning, and remote management into a compact housing.
It can be used in a wide range of small-connection level measurement applications.
Hydrological and Water Management Monitoring
The instrument is suitable for rivers, reservoirs, open channels, drainage networks, and hydrological monitoring stations, where it can be used for water-level data acquisition and remote monitoring.
Level Measurement in Small Storage Tanks
The JWrada®-20 is suitable for small storage tanks with limited installation openings and restricted vessel dimensions.
Its compact process connection can reduce the structural modifications that may otherwise be required when installing a level meter with a larger connection.
Level Measurement in Narrow-Opening Vessels
The G3/4 small threaded connection makes the instrument suitable for narrow-opening vessels and space-constrained measuring points, improving installation flexibility.
Pumping Stations and Drainage Systems
The instrument can be used in pumping-station collection wells, drainage basins, and distributed water-level monitoring points.
Its communication and remote-management capabilities can also be used for centralized data management.
Replacement or Upgrade of Ultrasonic Level Meters
In some applications, the JWrada®-20 can be evaluated as a replacement or upgrade for an existing ultrasonic level meter.
The suitability of such a replacement should be assessed according to the installation dimensions, measurement range, medium characteristics, and environmental conditions.
Main Technical Features of the JWrada®-20
| Item | Technical Specification |
|---|---|
| Product model | JWrada®-20 radar level meter |
| Measurement principle | 80 GHz frequency-modulated continuous wave |
| Process connection | G3/4 thread |
| Maximum measuring range | 10 meters |
| Measurement accuracy | ±1 mm |
| Wireless commissioning | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Commissioning platforms | Jiwei Smart Control® WeChat Mini Program and mobile application |
| Communication protocols | HART or Modbus |
| Intelligent functions | False-echo identification, multiple-echo separation, and dynamic target tracking |
| Remote functions | Remote commissioning, software upgrades, and operating-status monitoring |
| Typical applications | Hydrological monitoring, water management, small storage tanks, narrow-opening vessels, pumping stations, and general industrial level measurement |
Compact Radar Level Meters Are Moving Toward Remote and Digital Management
As level monitoring systems increasingly adopt wireless commissioning, remote maintenance, and networked data management, compact radar level meters are evolving beyond basic level measurement.
Their functions are expanding to include device-status monitoring, parameter management, software upgrades, and remote operation and maintenance.
With its G3/4 threaded connection, the JWrada®-20 reduces the required vessel opening size and installation space.
Its 80 GHz FMCW technology and intelligent echo-processing algorithm further improve target identification in complex measurement environments.
The launch of the JWrada®-20 expands Jiwei’s radar level measurement portfolio and provides a product option that addresses installation, measurement, communication, and maintenance requirements in hydrological monitoring, water management, small storage tanks, narrow-opening vessels, and general industrial level applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of process connection does the JWrada®-20 use?
The JWrada®-20 uses a G3/4 threaded process connection, reducing the required vessel opening size and installation space.
What is the maximum measuring range of the JWrada®-20?
The radar level meter has a measuring range of up to 10 meters. It is suitable for small storage tanks, water basins, open channels, and hydrological monitoring applications.
What is the measurement accuracy of the JWrada®-20?
The JWrada®-20 provides a measurement accuracy of ±1 mm.
In practical applications, instrument parameters should be configured according to the installation conditions, medium characteristics, and site environment.
Can the radar level meter be commissioned using a smartphone?
Yes. The JWrada®-20 features an integrated Bluetooth 5.0 module and can be used with the Jiwei Smart Control® WeChat Mini Program and mobile application.
Users can configure parameters, view instrument status, and monitor measurement data through a mobile device.
Which communication protocols does the JWrada®-20 support?
The product supports HART or Modbus communication and can be integrated with control systems, data acquisition systems, and digital management platforms.
Can the JWrada®-20 replace an ultrasonic level meter?
In some applications, the JWrada®-20 can be considered as a replacement or upgrade for an existing ultrasonic level meter.
The decision should be based on the available installation opening, measurement range, medium conditions, and environmental factors.
