Tank Measurement
Particularly in outdoor tanks where seasonal temperature extremes may affect speed of sound.
Reference Target for Temperature Compensation
ToughSonic® ultrasonic sensors have a temperature detector inside the sensor to compensate for changes in ambient air temperature.
As air warms or cools, the ultrasonic's body temperature follows. The embedded temperature sensor data is used to adjust the calculation for the speed of sound in a linear relationship.
For severe changes in air temperature that require a fast response, Senix has developed the Reference Target Temperature Compensation accessory—or RTTC— that overcomes the time lag inherent with a built-in sensor and offers customers an improved compensation option.
How the Reference Target Accessory Works
The ToughSonic RTTC tool uses an external reference target at the front of the sensor that is located in its measurement path.
For each measurement, the sensor takes two readings: one to locate the reference target, and the second to the distant object.
The reference target location is locked during calibration. Any change in its apparent position is applied proportionally to correct the distant object’s apparent location.
The result is a more accurate measurement that is unaffected by:
- Ambient air temperature
- Diurnal temperature swings
- Sensor self-heating
- Sunshine warming the ultrasonic sensor
- Vibration
Where Reference Target Temperature Compensation is Utilized
While used primarily in outdoor or environmental applications, the RTTC accessory can be used anywhere with fluctuating temperatures, humidity, or process conditions.
Stilling Tubes
Nulls the effects of fluctuating temperatures or changes in humidity within stilling tubes.
Open Water Channels
Prevents inaccurate readings at sunrise or sunset due to sunshine warming the sensor or the reverse.
Harsh Applications
Anywhere severe weather is present, or in manufacturing environments with volatile conditions.
Calibrating Your Reference Target
Field calibrations can be done at any time or temperature.
The reference target is added to the front of the ToughSonic sensor or added to the sensor’s mount adapter or riser.
Calibration is done in SensorView™, Senix’s free configuration and monitoring application.
It includes steps to locate the reference surface, locate a farther test object, and to determine and enter the actual distance to the test object.
External RTTC accessories are stocked at Senix.com. SensorView software can be utilized for customers that may want to "make their own" personalized Reference Target within the software's parameters.
Purchase the RTTC Accessory Online
Have additional questions about the reference target accessory and/or the RTTC calibration process? Contact our team for assistance.