Magnetrol Echotel 344 User manual

Echotel®Models 344/345
Ultrasonic Non-Contact
Transmitters for Level,
Volume, or Open Channel Flow
DESCRIPTION
Echotel Models 344 and 345 are full-featured, ultrasonic
non-contact transmitters that provide continuous mea-
surement for liquid level, volume, or open channel flow
applications. These versatile transmitters utilize the
latest in microprocessor-based electronics along with
powerful non-contact ultrasonic transducers, to provide
level measurement that is not affected by changes in
specific gravity, viscosity, or conductivity.
Model 344 and 345 are remote mounted transmitters
that feature a front panel keypad, and a large
16-character alphanumeric display of all parameters.
These transmitters are paired up with Kynar®and
316 stainless steel EchoMaster™ Ultrasonic Transducers
that have extensive agency approvals for hazardous
area locations.
FEATURES
•Front panel keypad for ease of programming – no
need to open enclosure after wiring
•4–20 mA isolated (1,000 Ωload) and RS-232 outputs
•Four 10 amp SPDT relays allow for simple alarm
configurations to complex pump control including
lead/lag alternation of pumps
•Password code prevents unauthorized tampering of
calibration parameters
•16-character alphanumeric display of all parameters.
•Complete self-diagnostics assures unit is operating
properly by checking all relays, outputs, and system
functionality
•Temperature compensation integral to all ultrasonic
transducers
•False target buffering eliminates signal interference
from fixed obstructions in vessel
APPLICATIONS
•Water and wastewater
•Slurries
•Viscous fluids
•Fuel oils
•Acids
•Caustics

2
TECHNOLOGY
Model 344 and 345 systems consists of three main com-
ponents: an ultrasonic transducer, a transmitter, and an
interconnecting cable package.
The transducer contains a piezoelectric crystal that con-
verts electrical signals generated by the transmitter into
ultrasonic pulses. These pulses, or sound waves, are
directed through the air toward the liquid surface. They
are then reflected off the liquid surface as an echo, and
returned to the transducer. The piezoelectric crystal then
converts the returned echo into an electrical signal which
is analyzed by the transmitter. The elapsed time between
the generation of the ultrasonic pulse and the return echo
is proportional to the distance between the face of the
transducer and the liquid surface. The distance value is
used by the transmitter to compute level, volume, or flow
in the engineering units selected by the user.
TYPICAL MOUNTING CONFIGURATIONS
In Figure 1, the transducer is installed above the liquid
surface, and the transmitter is mounted as far as 500 feet
(152 meters) away. A minimum dead band distance must
be allowed between the face of the transducer and the
maximum level attainable. This dead band distance is
18 inches (460 mm) for the Model 384 transducer, and
12 inches (305 mm) for the Model 385 transducer.
Figure 1
Typical Transducer Mounting – Level/Volume
Transducer
Air
Liquid
Dead Band
Minimum Model 344: 18 inches (460 mm)
Model 345: 12 inches (305 mm)
Model 345
25 feet (7.6 m)
maximum
Model 344
35 feet (10.7 m)
maximum
Range
Span
Maximum Model 345: 24 feet (7.3 m)
Model 344: 33.5 feet (10.2 m)
ECHOMASTER TRANSDUCER
EchoMaster transducers are available in a wide variety of
configurations to accommodate a broad range of industri-
al and municipal applications. The 344 uses the powerful
38 kHz Model 384 Kynar transducer, and is primarily used
for level and volume applications. The 345 uses the
50 kHz Model 385 transducer that is available in either
Kynar or 316 stainless steel. The higher frequency 50 kHz
transducer makes the 345 well suited for open channel
flow, and shorter range applications.
Operating Material Insertion NPT Process Housing
Frequency Lengths Connection
Model 384 38 kHz Kynar 3" & 10" 1" or 2" none, aluminum, or
Model 385 50 kHz Kynar or 316 SS 3", 6", & 10" 3⁄4" or 2" 316 stainless steel

3
Figure 2
Typical Transducer Mounting – Open Channel Flow
Electronics Transducer
Flow
Parshall
Flume
TYPICAL MOUNTING CONFIGURATIONS
Figure 2 shows a typical transducer mounting on a brack-
et for open channel flow measurement. Figure 3 shows
how the transducer can often be mounted further down in
a wet well or sump if the liquid will never reach the top
of the vessel. This helps to keep the 12 degree ultrasonic
beam away from pumps, ladders, side walls, or other
obstructions in the vessel.
Figure 3
Typical Transducer Mounting – Wet Well or Sump
A 12° conical beam of ultrasonic energy is emitted from
the face of the transducer. The transducer should be
mounted in a location such that the ultrasonic signal does
not touch the side walls or any other obstructions in the
vessel. This is typically accomplished by using a bracket,
half-coupling, or rigid conduit to mount the transducer in
a spot where a strong echo can be received off of the
liquid surface. The chart below shows the distance the
transducer should be located away from side walls and
obstructions. The distances are based on a 6° beam radius
at different heights above the liquid surface. Generally
speaking, the transducer should be mounted one foot
away for every 10 feet of height.
Distance from 12° Beam Minimum Distance from
Transducer Face (feet) Diameter (feet) Wall or Obstruction (inches)
3' 0.6' 4"
6' 1.3' 8"
9' 1.9' 11"
12' 2.5' 15"
15' 3.2' 19"
18' 3.8' 23"
21' 4.4' 26"
24' 5.0' 30"
27' 5.7' 34"
30' 6.3' 38"
33' 6.9' 42"
ULTRASONIC BEAM ANGLE

4
TRANSMITTER SPECIFICATIONS
Supply voltage 120 VAC +10%/-15%, 50–60 Hz
240 VAC +10%/-15%, 50–60 Hz
24 VDC, ±20%
Power consumption 12 watts (without heater)
Fuse size 1⁄4amp replaceable, 250 VAC Slo-Blo®for AC units
2 amp replaceable, 250 VDC Slo-Blo for DC units
Output signal 4–20 mA isolated (1,000 Ωload), RS-232
Relays Four 10 amp resistive, SPDT
Fail-safe User selectable for analog and relay outputs
Display Sixteen (16) character alphanumeric LCD
Keypad Sixteen (16) button integral to front panel
Enclosure material High-impact polycarbonate
Response time 2 seconds typical
Accuracy ± 0.25% of calibrated span
Ambient temperature
without heater & thermostat -4° to +160° F (-20° to +70° C)
with heater & thermostat -40° to +160° F (-40° to +70° C)
Humidity 95% Non-condensing
FALSE TARGET DETECTION
When it is impossible to mount the transducer far
enough away from obstructions in the vessel a unique
false target detection feature can be used. This target
detection mode programs the transducer to search for,
and display, the distance of the target nearest the trans-
ducer. When this false target is detected, the level infor-
mation of this unwanted target is stored in the buffer for
false targets. This process is repeated until all of the pos-
sible false target locations are programmed into the
transmitter or the buffer is full. A maximum of nine false
targets can be programmed into the buffer.
Successful configuration of false targets will eliminate the
possibility of unwanted target echoes being recognized
as the real material level in the vessel. This technique is
applicable to any obstruction which remains at the same
horizontal plane (i.e., ladder rungs, pipes, tank braces,
mixer blades, etc.) in the vessel.

5
FM 34X-X442-10X Non-hazardous NEMA 4X, IP65
Non-incendive Class I, II, III, Div. 2;
Groups A, B, C, D, F, & G, T4A
384-XKXX-0XX Non-hazardous NEMA 4X, IP65
Explosion proof Class I, II, III, Div. 1;
Groups B, C, D, E, F, & G, T6
385-XXXX-XXX Non-hazardous NEMA 4X, IP65
385-XEXX-006 Explosion proof Class I, II, III, Div. 1;
385-XEXX-010 Groups B, C, D, E, F, & G, T6
385-XEXX-003 Explosion proof Class I, II, III, Div. 1;
Groups A, B, C, D, E, F, & G, T6
CSA 34X-X442-10X Non-hazardous Type 4X enclosure
344-X442-10X Non-incendive Class I, II, III, Div. 2;
Groups A, B, C, D, E, F, & G, T4A
384-XKXX-0XX Non-hazardous Type 4X enclosure
384-XK0X-0XX Explosion proof Class I, II, III, Div. 1;
Groups B, C, D, E, F, & G
384-XK1X-0XX Explosion proof Class I, II, III, Div. 1;
384-XKYX-0XX Groups C, D, E, F, & G
385-XXXX-XXX Non-hazardous Type 4X enclosure
385-XE1X-0XX Explosion proof Class I, II, III, Div. 1;
385-XEYX-0XX Groups C, D, E, F, & G
385-XE0X-0XX Explosion proof Class I, II, III, Div. 1;
Groups A, B, C, D, E, F, & G
385-XX1X-XXX Non-incendive Class I, II, III, Div. 2;
Groups A, B, C, D, E, F, & G
AGENCY MODEL APPROVED APPROVAL CATEGORY APPROVAL CLASSES
AGENCY APPROVALS
TRANSDUCER SPECIFICATIONS
Model 384 Model 385
Transducer frequency 38 kHz 50 kHz
Maximum range 35 feet (10.7 meters) 25 feet (7.6 meters)
Maximum span 33.5 feet (10.2 meters) 24 feet (7.3 meters)
Minimum dead band 18 inches (460 mm) from 12 inches (305 mm) from
-40° to +163° F (-40° to +73° C) -40° to + 140° F (-40° to +60° C)
18 inches (460 mm) from
+140° to +200° F (+60° to +93° C)
Operating temperature -40° to +163° F (-40° to +73° C) -40° to +200° F (-40° to +93° C)
Operating pressure -10 to +50 psig (-0.69 to +3.45 bar)
Temperature compensation Automatic over the operating temperature range of the transducer
Beam angle 12° conical
Cable length 500 feet (152 meters) maximum between transducer and transmitter

6
MEASUREMENT RANGE CALCULATIONS
Ultrasonic non-contact devices are typically rated for a
maximum range in ideal conditions. Experience has shown
that maximum range must be reduced for certain factors.
Although the maximum range rating is somewhat conserv-
ative, each application must be evaluated for specific con-
ditions in the tank.
HOW TO CALCULATE
To evaluate the performance of a 344 or 345 in a particu-
lar application, use the chart on page 7, and follow the
steps below:
1. Select one condition from each of the operating
parameters that best describes your application.
2. Enter the corresponding performance multiplier value
in the application column.
3. Multiply all of the selected values together.
4. Multiply step 3 by the maximum potential range of the
unit. This yields a value that is the maximum allowable
measurement range for the application.
EXAMPLE
The vessel is a closed-top tank, 26-feet tall and is filled from the top.
Surface agitation Expect slight agitation from fill line: Performance multiplier 0.9
Vapor and steam The process temperature is +130° F, slight vapor is expected:
Performance multiplier 0.9
Beam interference No interference exists: Performance multiplier 1.0
Transducer alignment The transducer will be perpendicular to the liquid surface:
Performance multiplier 1.0
Foam None: Performance multiplier 1.0
Dust None: Performance multiplier 1.0
Air movement None: Performance multiplier 1.0
Ambient temperature 0 to +120° F: Performance multiplier 1.0
Pressure Atmospheric pressure: Performance multiplier 1.0
Will the Model 344 work for this application?
CALCULATION
Multiply all values in the application column:
0.9 x 0.9 x 1.0 x 1.0 x 1.0 x 1.0 x 1.0 x 1.0 x 1.0 x 35 feet (maximum) = 28.35 feet
The calculation yields 28.35 feet as the new maximum range. Since the tank is 26 feet tall, this application will give
satisfactory results with the Model 344.
NOTE: The performance multipliers provided are conservative estimates. Since these factors are subjective, the values have
been designed to provide very high confidence of system success. Contact the factory if there are any questions
concerning the interpretation of any of these performance multipliers.
Sensor alignment
Beam spread
interference
Beam spread
interference
Air movement
Dust
Vapors
Foam
Surface
agitation

7
MEASUREMENT RANGE CALCULATIONS
Operating Parameter Condition Performance Application
Multiplier
SURFACE AGITATION: Surface agitation or waves can degrade the
Smooth, glass-like surface 1.0
performance. Moderate agitation results in only slight degradation Slight agitation, choppiness 0.9
of performance. The worst case is when the surface is a good Heavy agitation 0.8
reflector, but in the wrong direction. (See also transducer alignment.) Slight vortex (6°) 0.7
VAPORS AND STEAM: Vapors in the air space, above the process,
become apparent, and cause problems when the liquid process No condensation 1.0
temperature is well above the temperature of the airspace. The
greater the difference, the more expected vapor problems. The
problems result from condensation or layering in the sound path,
both of which attenuate the sound signal, degrading performance. Little condensation 0.9
To avoid these problems, ensure that the vessel is insulated so that
vapors are less likely to condense. If a vent is used, be sure that the Much condensation/ 0.8
vent, which is where condensation will form, is well away from the foggy appearance
transducer.
BEAM SPREAD INTERFERENCE: It is strongly recommended that No interference 1.0
nothing be allowed within the transducer’s beam, except the liquid
which is being monitored. Often, the signal from the liquid will be Agitator at speed less than 60 RPM 1.0
strong, compared to the signal from other sources, such as ladder
rungs, filling process material, support struts, etc. For that reason, Agitator at speed greater than 60 RPM Consult
some applications may provide satisfactory results, even with Factory
interference. Interference from agitator blades is only an intermittent
interference that usually has little effect on performance. Interference outside 4°, far from 0.8
It is recommended there be no interference within the 6° half angle of transducer (in bottom third of range)
the transducer beam. If interference is unavoidable, make the inter-
ference as far as possible from the transducer so that the real signal Interference outside 4°, near to 0.5
at the longest distance is stronger than the interference signal. transducer (in top third of range)
TRANSDUCER ALIGNMENT: Optimum performance is obtained when Beam perpendicular to liquid surface 1.0
the transducer is perfectly aligned. If the process is not perpendicular
to the sound beam, the sound will not reflect properly back to the
transducer. The effect is significant. Beam 4° off from perpendicular 0.5
FOAM: Even small thicknesses of foam can attenuate the ultra- No foam 1.0
sound and render the system inoperative. If possible, moving the Light froth, less than 0.25" thick 0.8
transducer to an area in the tank where there is less foam will improve
the performance. Thick, heavy-density foams can sometimes produce Light foam, less than 0.5" thick 0.5
a reflection from the top of the foam. The multipliers shown at right Light foam, more than 1" thick 0.1
are general guidelines. For further assistance consult the factory.
DUST: Dust attenuates the sound and results in poor performance.
No dust 1.0
Even barely perceptible haze in the air can cause significant Haze, barely perceptible 0.7
attenuation. Slight dust 0.4
Heavy dust 0.1
AIR MOVEMENT: The movement of air, as possible in an open top No air movement 1.0
vessel, can create a layer from which the sound will reflect. This will Open vessel, but transducer below rim 0.8
be most noticeable in applications where vapors or steam tend to
form. Open air movement in sound path 0.7
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE: The ambient temperature can have a -20° to +140° F (-29° to +50° C) 1.0
significant effect on the sound and on the transducer’s capability to -40° to -20° F (-40° to -29° C) 0.9
transmit and receive sound. The most noticeable effect on the
transducer is at the temperature extremes. +140° to +160° F (+50 to +70° C) 0.9
PRESSURE: Sound requires air molecules to be able to travel. Sound -10 to +50 PSIG (0.689 to +3.45 bar) 1.0
will not travel in a vacuum. Likewise, higher pressures will allow the
sound to continue without decay, which can cause problems with Pressures outside above rating Consult
multiple echoes. Factory
Multiply all values together in the application column
Multiply by maximum potential range (35 feet for Model 344 or 25 feet for Model 345 ) X
Maximum allowable measurement range for this application =

MODEL 385 TRANSDUCERS
8
DIMENSIONAL SPECIFICATIONS
INCHES (MM)
9.50
(241)
9.50
(241)
13.00
(330)
6.00
(152)
6.75
(171)
Front View
MODEL 344 & 345 TRANSMITTERS
Optional
Mounting
Flange
3.00
(76)
4.63 (118)
Dia.
2.75
(70)
4.00
(102)
3.00 (76),
6.00 (152) or
10.00 (254)
depending
upon model
3/4" NPT
2" NPT 2"
NPT
3.00 (76),
6.00 (152) or
10.00 (254)
depending
upon model
3/4"
NPT
3/4"
NPT
6.00 (152) or
10.00 (254)
depending
upon model
3/4"
NPT
3.00
(76)
1.90 (48)
1.90 (48)
1.90 (48) 1.90 (48)
2" NPT Transducer with Housing
Side View
3⁄4" and 2" NPT Transducer without Housing

9
DIMENSIONAL SPECIFICATIONS
INCHES (MM)
2" NPT
Process Connection
3.00" (76)
Insertion Length
4.63 (118)
Dia.
3.00 (76)
2.75
(70)
4.50
(114)
2.12 (54)
Insertion Dia.
2" NPT
Process
Connection
3/4" NPT
10.00" (254)
Insertion Length
2.12 (54)
Insertion Dia.
3.00
(76)
29.00
(736)
1.50
(38)
3.12
(79)
6.12
(155)
20.50 (520)
22.50 (571)
2.00
(50)
2" Female NPT
(P/N 36-3813-001)
3/4" Male NPT
(P/N 36-3813-002)
3/4" Male NPT
(P/N 36-3812-002)
20.50
(520)
22.50
(571)
3.00
(76)
1.50
(38)
2.00
(50)
3.12
(79)
2" Female NPT
(P/N 36-3812-001)
Floor Mount Bracket Wall Mount Bracket
OPTIONAL MOUNTING BRACKETS
MODEL 384 TRANSDUCERS
2" NPT
Process
Connection
3.00" (76)
Insertion Length
2" NPT
Process
Connection
10.00" (254)
Insertion Length
1" NPT
Process
Connection
3.00" (76)
Insertion Length
1" NPT
Process
Connection
10.00" (254)
Insertion Length
2" NPT Transducer with Housing
1" NPT Transducer without Housing
2" NPT Transducer without Housing

003 3" (76 mm) length
010 10" (254 mm) length
0No mounting bracket
3Wall mount bracket for 2" NPT process connection only
4Floor mount bracket for 2" NPT process connection only
0No housing, 35' (10.7 m) of cable potted into transducer
1Cast aluminum, NEMA 4X/7/9 housing with 3⁄4" NPT single conduit,
connecting cable ordered separately
Y316 stainless steel, NEMA 4X/7/9 housing with 3⁄4" NPT single conduit
connecting cable ordered separately
KKynar
21" NPT, not available with transducer housing code 1 or Y
52" NPT
0None
1Mechanical totalizer
231-day data logger
3Mechanical totalizer & 31-day data logger
0120 VAC, 50/60 Hz
1240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
224VDC
3120 VAC with heater and thermostat
4240 VAC with heater and thermostat
344 Ultrasonic non-contact transmitter, used with Model 384 transducer
345 Ultrasonic non-contact transmitter, used with Model 385 transducer
PROCESS CONNECTION
TRANSDUCER MOUNTING BRACKET
384 K
MODEL 384 38 KHZ TRANSDUCER
MODEL NUMBER
TRANSDUCER HOUSING
TRANSDUCER INSERTION LENGTH
10
442 10
INPUT POWER
SPECIAL OPTIONS
TRANSMITTER
MODEL NUMBER
Models available for quick shipment, usually within one week after factory
receipt of a purchase order, through the Expedite Ship Plan (ESP)
BASIC MODEL
TRANSDUCER MATERIAL

003 3" (76 mm) length
006 6" (152 mm) length
010 10" (254 mm) length
0No mounting bracket
1Wall mount bracket for 3⁄4" NPT process connection only
2Floor mount bracket for 3⁄4" NPT process connection only
3Wall mount bracket for 2" NPT process connection only
4Floor mount bracket for 2" NPT process connection only
0No housing, 35' (10.7 m) of cable potted into transducer
1Cast aluminum, NEMA 4X/7/9 housing with 3
⁄4" NPT single conduit,
connecting cable ordered separately
Y316 stainless steel, NEMA 4X/7/9 housing with 3
⁄4" NPT single conduit
connecting cable ordered separately
KKynar
E316 stainless steel (for use in hazardous environments, refer to agency approvals)
13⁄4" NPT, not available with transducer housing code 1 or Y
52" NPT
11
037 3176
CABLE LENGTH IN FEET
10 feet (3 m) minimum, 500 feet (152 m) maximum length
Example: 12 foot cable length = Code 012
CONNECTING CABLE
PART NUMBER
PROCESS CONNECTION
TRANSDUCER MOUNTING BRACKET
385
MODEL 385 50 kHz TRANSDUCER
MODEL NUMBER
TRANSDUCER INSERTION LENGTH
TRANSDUCER MATERIAL
TRANSDUCER HOUSING

BULLETIN: 51-129.6
EFFECTIVE: May 2004
SUPERSEDES: November 2002
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Copyright © 2004 Magnetrol International, Incorporated. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
Magnetrol and Magnetrol logotype are registered trademarks of Magnetrol International.
Performance specifications are effective with date of issue and are subject to change without notice.
The brand and product names contained within this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
For additional information, see Instruction Manual 51-629.
The quality assurance system in place at
Magnetrol guarantees the highest level of
quality throughout the company. Magnetrol
is committed to providing full customer
satisfaction both in quality products and
quality service.
Magnetrol’s quality assurance system is
registered to ISO 9001 affirming its com-
mitment to known international quality
standards providing the strongest assurance
of product/service quality available.
Several Echotel Model 344 and 345
Ultrasonic Transmitters are available for
quick shipment, usually within one week
after factory receipt of a purchase order,
through the Expedite Ship Plan (ESP).
Models covered by ESP service are color
coded in the model selection charts.
To take advantage of ESP, simply match the
color coded model number codes (standard
dimensions apply).
ESP service may not apply to orders of ten
units or more. Contact your local representa-
tive for lead times on larger volume orders,
as well as other products and options.
EExpedite
SShip
PPlan
All Magnetrol electronic level and flow
controls are warranted free of defects in
materials or workmanship for one full year
from the date of original factory shipment.
If returned within the warranty period; and,
upon factory inspection of the control, the
cause of the claim is determined to be cov-
ered under the warranty; then, Magnetrol
will repair or replace the control at no cost
to the purchaser (or owner) other than
transportation.
Magnetrol shall not be liable for misapplica-
tion, labor claims, direct or consequential
damage or expense arising from the instal-
lation or use of equipment. There are no
other warranties expressed or implied,
except special written warranties covering
some Magnetrol products.
QUALITY
ESP
WARRANTY