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METRAVON MV-RD904 is a radar level meter for dusty silos with a 26 GHz parabolic antenna and a listed maximum measuring distance of 80 m. Its 4-degree beam can help restrict the area illuminated inside a silo, but the antenna is physically large. Selection must address the opening, aiming arrangement and buildup as well as the expected dust during filling.
Allow space for the parabolic antenna
The antenna options are 196 mm and 242 mm in diameter. A connection thread or nominal flange size does not prove that the reflector can pass through an existing opening. Obtain the complete assembly dimensions before fabricating a nozzle or planning a replacement. Also check access for cleaning and removal without striking adjacent structures.
Radar level meter for dusty silos: operating limits
| Specification | MV-RD904 selection data |
|---|---|
| Maximum distance | 80 m; confirm the near limit and usable span for the actual silo. |
| Reflector diameter | 196 mm / 242 mm |
| Beam angle | 4 degrees |
| Process temperature | Standard: -40 to 130 deg C; high-temperature: -40 to 230 deg C. |
| Process pressure | -0.1 to 0.3 MPa |
| Reference accuracy | +/-15 mm |
| Electrical options | 24 VDC two-wire 4-20 mA/HART, or separately selected RS485/Modbus electronics. |
Do not interpret the 80 m maximum as permission to measure up to the antenna face. Keep the highest operating level outside the confirmed dead zone. Likewise, the high-temperature option requires its specified seal and construction; it is not an extension of the standard unit's rating by software.
Distinguish airborne dust from material on the antenna
A dust cloud in the measurement path and a deposit on the reflector are different problems. During delivery, record when the reading becomes unstable and whether it recovers after dust settles. If the problem remains after filling, inspect for buildup, condensation or a changed antenna position under the site's safe-isolation procedure.
Keep the falling stream outside the beam and use the adjustment arrangement to aim at the intended material surface. Confirm that covers, cleaning fittings and nearby steelwork do not obstruct that path. Where deposit control is necessary, agree a cleaning method and maintenance access; do not assume that a purge connection or self-cleaning function is included.
Acceptance should include the highest-dust operating period
Check the echo and reported level during startup, filling and discharge, not only after the material has settled. Compare the local reading with the receiving system and document the response to a lost echo. For an analogue loop, verify the configured endpoints and fault indication at the PLC. For Modbus, check the relevant registers, units and communication-loss handling.
Against the MV-RD903 horn-antenna model, compare mounting space and the actual interference path before choosing by maximum range. The larger reflector is a meaningful mechanical difference, even when both instruments are considered for the same silo.
Installation and maintenance questions
Q1. Does a 4-degree beam eliminate interference?
No. The illuminated area still grows with distance, and an obstruction near the beam can return an echo. Review the full silo section and check the measured echo in operation. Beam width is one selection input, not a guarantee of an interference-free installation.
Q2. Should purge air be added whenever dust is present?
Only after assessing the deposit mechanism and a suitable approved cleaning arrangement. Airborne dust alone does not prove that purging will help. Any added fitting must remain outside the measurement path and meet the site's process and safety requirements.
Include antenna-access dimensions, material properties, dust and condensation behaviour, operating temperature and pressure, plus required signals in your MV-RD904 enquiry. A photograph of the inlet and existing mounting point helps identify whether the proposed reflector can be installed and maintained.
