What to consider during installation
For accurate measurement results, two basic points must be observed when installing the LiDAR level sensor.
1. Align the sensor exactly vertically
The LiDAR sensor must be aligned perpendicular to the surface of the tank contents. Even small deviations – often barely visible to the naked eye – can cause measurement errors.
How to align it correctly:
- Use a spirit level to ensure that the sensor and housing are parallel in all directions to the surface.
- Check the alignment again after fixing.
- Avoid tilting or skewing when fastening.
2. Ensure a clear view for the light cone
The LiDAR light cone must not be obstructed by objects such as pipes, lines, or the tank wall. The diameter of the light cone increases linearly per meter:
- after 1 m → 6 cm
- after 2 m → 12 cm
- per additional meter → + 6 cm
This means:
- Mount the sensor as centrally as possible with an unobstructed view downwards
- Maintain a minimum distance of 10 cm to the surface
- For clear liquids, it should be at least 20 cm
Optimal mounting in narrow shafts or cisterns
In practice, the following method has proven very successful in confined spaces:
Mounting in a pipe – ideal for narrow shafts
- Use a pipe with a larger inner diameter than the light cone at the minimum fill level.
Example:
- Cistern 1.8 m deep
- Pipe 2 m long
- Inner diameter approx. 15 cm
- Mount the LiDAR sensor centrally at a pipe opening, ideally with a suitable cover.
- Place the pipe vertically in the cistern and fix it with a suitable pipe clamp.
Advantages of this method:
- the light cone always has sufficient space
- the sensor gets a clear view of the surface
- Wave movements are effectively absorbed
- ideal if the shaft is very narrow or there are many pipes in the way