Instrunexus | DP Level Transmitter Sizing

DP Level Transmitter Range Calculator

The Fundamental Equation

A Differential Pressure (DP) transmitter measures the difference between the High Pressure (HP) side and the Low Pressure (LP) side.

ΔP = PHP - PLP

1. Open Tank Application

The LP side is vented to atmosphere (0 psig). The HP side senses the fluid weight.

  • LRV (0% Level): Usually 0 mmH2O (unless elevated).
  • URV (100% Level): SGprocess × Height.

2. Closed Tank (Wet Leg / Capillary)

When a tank is pressurized, we must compensate for the vapor space pressure. If condensation occurs in the LP leg, we fill it intentionally (Wet Leg) or use remote seals with capillaries.

This introduces Zero Elevation or Zero Suppression.

General Formula for Calibration:

PHP = Pgas + (SGproc × Hlevel) + (SGfill × hHP_leg)

PLP = Pgas + (SGfill × hLP_leg)

ΔP = (SGproc × Hlevel) + (SGfill × hHP_leg) - (SGfill × hLP_leg)

Field Note

Always remember: Span = URV - LRV. The span remains constant regardless of elevation or suppression. The transmitter simply shifts its 4-20mA output window relative to absolute zero differential.

DP Range Calculator

mm

Distance between taps (0-100%)

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