MOL develops portable gauge for ballast tanks

The compact and light gauge, weighing 5kg, measures the level of ballast water in a tank by lowering a measuring tube into the sounding tube of the ballast tank. A sensor detects air pressure changes in the tube and quickly measures the ballast water level.

While conventional measurement using a sounding tape is complex and time-consuming, the portable gauge is quicker and easier to check the levels of ballast tanks, improving efficiency and enhancing the safety of loading/discharging operations. By using the new gauge it takes only 10 to 15 seconds to measure the liquid level in each ballast tank.

The liquid-level gauge is compatible with most vessels because it uses the vessel’s air compressor system by means of an air hose with a one-touch system. The pressure sensor automatically adjusts for changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure. A battery is used for power source of the main unit and measurements are displayed in digital format.