EM540 Radar Gauge

Continuous and precise level gauging is necessary to ensure secure and safe marine operations, particularly during loading and discharging.

Honeywell’s EM540 radar gauge integrates temperature, pressure and ballast data in a compliant, robust and compact system.

The 8-inch EM540 radar gauge is particularly suited to sophisticated tanker applications such as chemicals and bitumen, FSO and FPSO, and inland river vessels.  It can be installed either on a still pipe or free space, depending on the radar type. It is equipped with up to six analog inputs that monitor temperature, inert gas pressure and nearby tank gauges.

The EM540 is associated with the Marine CIU and its intrisincally Safe racks TA3840S for power supply. The control system calculates volume, compensates for trim, heel and temperature and displays the information or sends it to the ship’s load computer and ICMS (Integrated Control and Monitoring System).

The distance (ullage) between the antenna and the surface of the liquid is measured through the propagation of the radar signal, using FMCW (Frequency Modulation Continuous Wave). An embedded Digital Signal Processor computes the distance. The calculated ullage in millimeters is then directly sent to the cargo control room, along with information about temperature and pressure signals. The use of Intrinsically Safe, two-way digital signal transmission between the radar gauge and the central monitoring system enables easy integration of the EM540 into any type of control system.

The EM540 Radar employs advanced smart sensor technology, including microprocessors performing signal processing. In addition to transmitting tank level, pressure and temperature data to the central monitoring system, it provides self-diagnostics, self-monitoring and remote configuration. The unit is compliant with certification rules and regulations issued by international classification societies. Its proprietary flat antenna "Planar" reduces product build-up and makes the cleaning procedure quick and easy.

Loading and unloading ships is no simple task; the balance of the ship must be monitored at all times. Any discrepancy in the measurement, caused for example by clogging or mechanical trouble, stops the ship’s operation and forces the crew to monitor the filling manually, which is tedious and can lead to dangerous situations. With its non-contact measurement, the EM540 radar provides a perfect solution for reliable cargo tank gauging.