Gill level sensors keep Mongolian locomotives running

Background

The Gill capacitive liquid level sensors have been installed into a fleet of locomotives to provide reliable real-time measurement of diesel fuel tanks.

Gill Sensors was contacted by the Mongolian National Board, looking to replace the diesel level sensors on their fleet of locomotives. A replacement sensor was needed to provide an accurate real-time output over the existing mechanical methods currently in use.

Challenge

Due to the severe weather conditions experienced throughout the Mongolian winter, the ability to maintain accuracy and remain functional in temperatures down to -40°C, without any need for re-calibration was essential to the installation.

In addition, the diesel level sensors would be linked into a GPS system to track fuel consumption and report when fuel was either leaking or being drawn off by unauthorised personnel.

Solution

Gill’s Level capacitive liquid sensors were selected for the application due to its high specification features and ability to provide the essential reliability and accuracy required for the strenuous application. Being solid-state and constructed from corrosion free anodized aluminium, the sensor is resistant to heavy shock and vibration loads, making it well suited to the harsh conditions of the application.

The capacitive level sensors provide a continuous 0-5v analogue output and a proven operating temperature range of -40°C to +125°C, which does not require re-calibration. Offering easy installation and minimum maintenance, the level sensor delivers a superior fit and forget diesel measurement solution to the National Rail Board, whilst fulfilling the accuracy and output specifications required.

Two Gill diesel level sensors have been installed into a test locomotive for full system testing, validating the mechanical and output performance of the sensor across the seasonal temperature range.

Once the trials have been successfully concluded, the sensors will be installed in up to 200 locomotives.