What is Tank Gauging?
Tank gauging is the act of measuring the volume of a particular liquid stored in a large container generally considered too big to be measured by sight. A tank gauge measures the volume of liquid inside and will also tell you when it’s the correct time to top up your tank.
How Accurate Are Oil Tank Gauges?
The accuracy of oil tank gauge depends greatly on the type of gauge you own. Sight Gauges are generally the least precise, but electronic gauges will give the closest accurate reading due to the level of technology involved in gathering the data needed. For a precise accurate reading, it’s worth using two different types of gauge if you’re able to ensure your readings are correct even if there’s an issue with one of your gauges.
What Are The Different Type of Tank Gauges?
Sight Gauges
Sight gauges are usually a transparent tube placed on the side of an oil tank. The level of oil in the tube reflects the level of oil in the tank but is generally only an estimated guess rather than a very accurate reflection. Sight Gauges are often the cheapest type of gauge but are only suitable for single skin tanks rather than bunded tanks based on the way they work.
Float Gauges
As the name explains, a float gauge is a float that moves up or down in the tank depending on the level of liquid contained. They can be purchased in either manual or electronic versions based on the buyers requirements and are sometimes referred to as “Cat and Mouse” gauges. The gauge itself is attached to a piece of string tied to the float. When the float moves up or down based on the liquid level, it causes the gear in the gauge to turn which changes the reading showing the user where the level is at.
Electronic Gauges
Electronic gauges are generally considered to be the most accurate type of tank gauge as they use sensors placed inside the tank to measure oil levels, feeding real time readings back to the user. Electronic gauges can use a variety of different technology including radar, pressure or even ultrasonic to get precise, accurate data. Electronic tanks gauges are generally the most expensive as they utilize high end technology to give clear readings. They can also be used wirelessly and transmit data to a device or display unit so users do not have to be near the tank if it’s in a remote or difficult to reach location, instead simply letting technology transmit the data for them.
Hydrostatic Gauges
Hydrostatic Gauges are slightly different in that they use pressure exerted by the oil itself to decide the level internally. They contain a pressure sensor placed on the floor of the tank which reads the weight of the oil, changing as the level of oil does. They are highly accurate and offer precise reliability to guarantee a correct reading.
Which Oil Tank Gauge Do I Need?
Which gauge you require depends on a variety of factors. It depends on the type of tank you have, the size of the tank itself, your budget, and also whether or not you need the gauge to have any specific features such as alarms or specific compatibility with an already installed system. Certain gauges will only be suitable for certain types of tanks. For instance, sight gauges won’t work with bunded oil tanks, but electronic gauges will work with any type of tank. For more information on this, please view our previous blog on oil tank gauges.
Browse Our Oil Tank Gauges Today
Tanks for Everything have a huge variety of oil tank gauges and other tank accessories for customers and businesses of all sizes and requirements. With over 15 years in the business, we offer free delivery nationwide on any order over £180 and aim to be a one stop shop for all your tank needs. No matter what tanks, equipment, or advice you need, our sales team are available from 7:30am until late and can be contacted by either email or telephone, whatever you’d prefer.
Got a question or are interested in one of our products? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch, we’d love to help where we can!
