I'm trying to figure out a way to remotely monitor my heating oil tank level. Absolutely non-invasive way. Tank has a transparent acrylic gauge with a red (plastic?) disk that moves up or down Like this one Is there a sensor that can "see" thru acrylic and measure distance? I was thinking of putt…

Take a look at this. http://blog.qartis.com/arduino-laser-distance-meter/

Well, I wouldn't call it perfect, since that device is not designed for accurate low range measurements, but the article should give you something to start with. It says that it's +/- 2mm accurate and works from 5 cm to 45 m. Your acrylic may interfere with the laser.

Shpaget: Well, I wouldn't call it perfect, since that device is not designed for accurate low range measurements, but the article should give you something to start with. It says that it's +/- 2mm accurate and works from 5 cm to 45 m. Your acrylic may interfere with the laser. Hmm yeah that co…

bratan: Is there a sensor that can detect distance to magnet? Analog Hall effect. Frankly, I would just put a set of light sources and LDRs on each side of the gauge. Same way as you look at it.

Paul__B: Analog Hall effect. Frankly, I would just put a set of light sources and LDRs on each side of the gauge. Same way as you look at it. That would be affected by the refractive index and the transparency of his oil. He hasn't said what type of oil it is, so it could be anything from almon…

Henry_Best: That would be affected by the refractive index and the transparency of his oil. He hasn't said what type of oil it is, so it could be anything from almond oil (crystal clear) to 'black gold' from his oil well (opaque) and anything in between. Oil color is irrelevant because floating …

Henry_Best: That would be affected by the refractive index and the transparency of his oil. Hmmm. Did you perchance look at the picture he provided? :roll_eyes:

I would put a pressure sensor on the tank output. When no oil is flowing, the pressure is directly proportional to the oil surface level in the tank. I've been using this approach for years to measure water tank levels and it works very well.

And if all you need is a 'close to empty' switch, then pull apart an old washing machine and extract the water level sensor. This is an extremely sensitive pressure switch and it's mounted above water level with a tube providing the pressure.

Measuring distance thru transparent acrylic

Projects General Guidance

bratan January 7, 2015, 6:14pm 3

Shpaget:
Take a look at this.
Arduino laser distance meter

Oh that's perfect! Thank you!

Topic		Replies	Views
Measuring water level Sensors	47	1179	September 2, 2025
Recommended radar sensor that can go threw 12mm lexan Sensors	13	166	December 25, 2025
A reliable distance sensor - oil tank? Home Automation	17	1337	June 9, 2024
Narrow View Water Level Sensor General Guidance	46	397	April 7, 2025
Medir profundidad agua de pozo Español	7	674	January 29, 2024

Measuring distance thru transparent acrylic

Related topics