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I am working on a telemetry system where a liquid level sensor (Hydrostatic pressure sensor) is used to monitor the volume of fuel (gasoline / diesel) in an underground storage tank.

The sensor has to immersed in the fuel and has a cable that is to exit the tank and then be connected to an acquisition unit housed in a panel.

The main problem i will like ideas on is that, the sensor cable needs to form a liquid-tight seal at the point it exits the tank.

I have come across a component called a CordGrip / Cable gland but will like to know if any other methods exist

The final solution should take into account that the exit point of the cable is exposed to the outside environment of sunshine and rain

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As this is a fuel tank, you need to consider explosion hazards. If I understood you correctly, you plan to place a pressure sensor low in the (underground) tank and have the cable enter the tank near the top. This means the seal will not only need to be tight against fuels, but also against fuel vapor. I don't know where you are, so I don't know which ex-protection codes apply if any. Make sure YOU know which codes are relevant and follow them.

If you use cable ducts, make sure they are compliant with the relevant codes and stand up to a the fuel-ladden atmosphere (organic solvents attack some plastics).

Other ways to solve your problem:

  • screw the pressure sensor directly into a socket on the tank (possible product), this is likely impossible in your case as the tank is underground.
  • screw a pressure transmitter into a socket at the top of the tank, have the actual sensor hanging at a steel rope into the fluid (possible product)
  • Use a different level mesurement technology like radar or ultrasonic that measuers from the top (though that is likely more expensive, but you can maintain the sensor more easily). The beauty of radar is that with some tank materials (not metals obvs.), you can measure through the tank so the whole sensor does not contact your medium, there's one less seal you need to worry about re. explosive vapors and so on.

I would go with option two as a compromise between ease of service and cost. Find a reputable vendor of measuring devices near you and talk to their application engineer.

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