Magnetic Level Instruments

Reliable, low-maintenance level measurement solution for industries such as oil & gas, petrochemical, and power.​
Magnetic Level Instruments

What is magnetic level measurement and when should it be used?​

Magnetic level measurement is a process‑isolated level measurement method used when extreme process conditions make direct‑contact technologies unreliable. It uses magnetic coupling to provide continuous visual and electronic indication in high‑pressure, high‑temperature, corrosive, dirty, or hazardous applications.​Rosemount magnetic level instruments apply this proven technology through magnetic level indicators (MLI), external chambers, and magnetostrictive transmitters to support reliable level measurement where sight glasses often fail.​

Products

MAGNETIC LEVEL MEASUREMENT​

Improve operator safety, reduce maintenance and eliminate leak points

Magnetic level instruments are often selected for applications where safety, reliability, and ease of maintenance are critical. The following considerations highlight how magnetic level measurement supports operation in hazardous environments, challenging process conditions, cost‑sensitive applications, and safety‑driven projects requiring redundancy.

Process‑isolated measurement for easier maintenance​

Emerson's magnetic level instrument portfolio supports a wide range of level measurement needs using proven magnetic level technology:

  • Magnetic level indicators provide continuous visual tank level indication for process tanks​
  • External chambers enable isolated, bypass, or bridle level measurement without direct tank penetration​
  • Magneto strictive transmitters deliver continuous electronic output for monitoring and control

These instruments can be applied independently to meet specific process, safety, or operational requirements.​

Media

Improve Safety and Reduce Costs with Magnetic Level Instruments

Discover the key distinctions between the different magnetic level devices

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Rosemountâ„¢ 9935 Level Bypass Chamber

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Measurement Type & Capability​

  • External mounting solution for levelinstrumentation​

  • Optimized for use with Guided Wave Radar​

​Accuracy & Performance​

  • High accuracy when paired with transmitters​

  • Enhanced measurement stability​

​Installation & Integration​

  • External mounting simplifies installation​

  • Space optimization around the vessel​

  • Designed to pair with Rosemount 5300 and othertransmitters​

​Visibility & User Interaction​

  • Enables use of visual and electronic level devices​

​Design & Mechanical Robustness​

  • Engineered chamber design​

  • Robust and durable construction​

​Application Flexibility​

  • Versatile measurement capabilities​

​Maintenance & Diagnostics​

  • Maintenance efficiency through external access

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Rosemountâ„¢ 9930 Magnetic Level Indicator

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Measurement Type & Capability​

  • Direct, non‑invasive visual level indication​

​Accuracy & Performance​

  • Reliable level indication independent of power​

​Installation & Integration​

  • External mounting​

  • Compatible with level transmitters and switches​

​Visibility & User Interaction​

  • High‑visibility local indication​

​Design​

  • Robust and durable construction​

​Application Flexibility​

  • Versatile measurement capabilities​

​Maintenance & Diagnostics​

  • Low maintenance, no calibration required

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Magtechâ„¢ MLT Level Transmitter - Magnetostrictive

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Measurement Type & Capability​

  • Continuous electronic level measurement​

  • Dual level measurement (level and interface)​

​Accuracy & Performance​

  • High accuracy​

​Installation & Integration​

  • Easy integration with magnetic level indicators​

​Visibility & User Interaction​

  • Electronic output for control systems​

​Design​

  • Robust and durable construction​

​Application Flexibility​

  • Suitable for demanding process environments​

​Maintenance & Diagnostics​

  • Diagnostic and asset management capabilities

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about magnetic level instrumentation

Magnetic level indicators use the principle of magnetic coupling. A float containing a permanent magnet moves up and down with the liquid level inside a chamber. Outside the chamber, a visual indicator— a column of rotating flags —responds to the float’s magnet, displaying the level accurately without direct contact with the process fluid.​

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  • Improved safety: No direct glass exposure to process fluids.​

  • Low maintenance: No moving parts in the visual indicator, and float-based systems are durable.​

  • High visibility: Indicators are readable from a distance.​

  • Sealed system: Ideal for hazardous or pressurized environments.​

  • Customizable: Can be equipped with transmitters and switches for remote monitoring or alarms.​​

Yes. Magnetic level instruments are often preferred for high-pressure and high-temperature applications, especially when using materials like stainless steel or exotic alloys. Many instruments are rated for pressures up to ANSI 2500 class and temperatures up to 400°C (752°F) or more, depending on construction and certification.​​

Magnetic level instruments can handle a wide range of fluids, including:​

  • Clean liquids​

  • Corrosive chemicals (with proper material selection)​

  • Viscous or dirty liquids â€‹

  • Cryogenic and boiling liquids​

They are not ideal for solids or very thick slurries that may impede float movement.​​

Absolutely. Most modern Magnetic Level Indicators can be paired with:​

  • Reed-chain or guided wave radar transmitters for continuous level output (4–20 mA, HART, etc.)​

  • Magnetic switches for high/low level alarms​

  • Digital displays or control systems for integration into plant SCADA/DCS networks​​

The Magtech MLT is a magnetostrictive level transmitter that provides continuous, high-accuracy level measurement. It can be mounted externally or directly inserted into the tank or bypass chamber. A transmitter provides a 4-20mA or digital signal for control systems and is paired with a magnetic level indicator that provides the visual local indication at the tank or bypass chamber. 

  • No direct glass exposure (safer than sight glasses) â€‹

  • Low maintenance and long service life â€‹

  • Redundant measurement when paired with radar or transmitters â€‹

  • Clear visual indication even in harsh environments â€‹

  • Suitable for high-pressure and high-temperature applications

Yes, MLIs can be combined with guided wave radar, non-contacting radar, or magnetostrictive transmitters like the MLT for redundant or enhanced level measurement. 

The Rosemount 9935 Bypass Chamber is a high-integrity chamber designed to house a float for use with magnetic level indicators and transmitters. It ensures safe, isolated measurement in pressurized or hazardous applications and supports integration with radar or magnetostrictive technologies.

A magnetic level indicator is a device that uses a float and magnetic coupling to provide a visual representation of liquid level without direct contact with the process fluid.

Magnetic level measurement offers:​

  • Non-invasive operation​
  • Improved safety​
  • Low maintenance requirements​
  • Reliable performance in harsh environments

Use magnetic level instruments when you need:​

  • Safe level indication in high-pressure or corrosive environments​
  • A low-maintenance alternative to sight glasses​
  • Local visual indication with optional remote monitoring

Yes, magnetic level instruments can be paired with guided wave radar transmitters, non-contacting radar transmitters and switches to provide continuous level monitoring, alarms, and integration into control systems.