Are Weight Measurements Possible?

The SiloPatrol® SMUse cable-based level sensor and Flexar Guided Wave Radar silo level monitor operate like all of the other roof mounted inventory monitoring systems (e.g. ultrasonic, radar, laser ranging, etc...).  Such instruments are, in essence, distance measurement devices. They measure the distance between the vessel roof and the surface of the material.  It is not too far off the mark to think of these instruments as electronic 'yard sticks'.  
 
So, how do you get weight measurements from a yard stick? Well, you don't, not directly at least.  Weights can only be derived through calculations.
 
To calculate volume, weight, or level, some form of micro processor based controller has to be employed.  The simplest of controllers will act as a big calculator.  The controller applies the variable distance measurement to a set of static values.  These static values are vessel dimensions and product density.  The trouble is, most users either are not sure or don't know the exact vessel dimension or the density of their material so they estimate.  As with any mathematical formula, an inaccuracy with any input(s) can effect the final answer.  Computer people have a saying: GIGO, garbage in garage out. Enough said.
 
If accurate weight information is desired it is imperative to provide the calculating controller with the most accurate information possible.

Click here to view related article: "Determining the bulk density of a material to improve accuracy of material weight calculation"