Understanding Gauge Glass: Advantages and Disadvantages

A gauge glass, also called sight glass, is a device used in the measurement of liquid level. It is used for continuous indication of liquid level within a tank or vessel.In the gauge glass method, a transparent tube is attached to the bottom and top of the tank that is monitored. The height of the liquid in the tube will be equal to the height of water in the tank.

While gauge glasses are useful in measuring various types of liquid, using such device still pose certain advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Using Gauge Glass

1. With a gauge glass, direct reading is possible.

2. There are special designs of the device available for use up to 3000’c and 650 kg/cm^2.

3. Glassless designs are available in numerous materials for corrosion resistance, as well.

Disadvantages of Using Gauge Glass

1. The main disadvantage of using gauge glass is that it is read where the tank is located which is not always convenient, especially if the tank is remotely located to a distance not easily observed.

2. Since gauge glasses are located outside the tanks, the liquid in the glass may freeze in cold or extreme weather even though the liquid inside the tank does not, and thus, it may cause error in the reading.

3. Heavy, viscous liquids or liquids containing material which falls out of solution and clog the tube cannot be measured satisfactory by this device.

4. For long level spans, overlapping gauges are needed.

5. Finally, the accuracy and readability of the glass reading depends on cleanliness of glass and fluid.

There is a wide variety of gauge glasses available in the market, with different sizes and styles to meet the needs of equipment manufacturers and operators. To know more about gauge glasses and other liquid level indicating devices, consult with the experts at Quest Tec Solutions or visit their website at http://questtecsolutions.com/sight-glass-for-liquid-level-gauges.