Krueger Sentry Gauge, a leading manufacturer specializing in industrial chemical tank monitoring solutions, has announced its commitment to enhancing safety and reliability in the storage of aggressive chemicals with its corrosion-resistant plastic liquid level gauges specifically engineered for hydrochloric acid environments. Designed and manufactured in the United States, these innovative gauges address the persistent challenges and risks posed by traditional metal and glass liquid level indicators when used with hydrochloric acid storage tanks and drums.
Hydrochloric acid, widely used in industrial processes, imposes severe demands on storage equipment due to its highly corrosive nature. Metal gauges, including those made from high-grade stainless steels such as 304 and 316, rapidly deteriorate upon exposure to HCl, often leading to leaks, equipment failure, and hazardous situations like the release of flammable hydrogen gas. Glass tube indicators, although chemically resistant, suffer from fragility, increasing the risk of breakage and dangerous acid spills. Krueger Sentry Gauge’s all-plastic level gauges overcome these vulnerabilities by employing engineered thermoplastics that resist chemical degradation, ensuring extended service life and safer operation.
The company’s specialized gauges for hydrochloric acid storage utilize materials like polyetheretherketone (PEEK), Kynar® (polyvinylidene fluoride or PVDF), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and PVC, all selected for their chemical inertness and durability in harsh acidic environments. Each component that comes into contact with hydrochloric acid embodies this resistance, eliminating corrosion concerns that compromise measurement accuracy and tank integrity. By replacing traditional metal floats and fittings with plastic alternatives, Krueger Sentry Gauge effectively mitigates the risks of leaks and corrosion-induced malfunctions that can cause costly downtime and endanger personnel.
Krueger Sentry Gauge’s plastic liquid level gauges feature a straightforward float-and-rod mechanical design that requires no external power, offering reliable and accurate liquid level readings with minimal maintenance. This simplicity enhances operational safety by reducing the likelihood of failures associated with electronic sensors or complex instrumentation, which can be problematic in hazardous chemical environments. The clear visual indicators mounted on top of tanks allow operators to monitor liquid levels without opening the tank, minimizing hazardous exposure and the potential for vapor release.
The product line includes two primary models tailored to common hydrochloric acid storage applications. The Type PD gauge is engineered for bulk tanks, capable of monitoring levels ranging from six inches to twelve feet and is compatible with double-walled tanks and pipe risers often mandated by regulatory agencies. Meanwhile, the Type PB model serves drum applications, offering precise readings for 15, 30, and 55-gallon containers. Both models feature standard NPT threading for straightforward installation across a broad spectrum of tank configurations.
These gauges not only surpass the chemical resistance of stainless steel and glass alternatives but also provide essential compliance support for environmental and safety regulations governing bulk chemical storage. Many jurisdictions require secondary containment systems, such as double-walled tanks, to prevent accidental releases of hazardous substances. Krueger Sentry’s gauges accommodate these designs, ensuring that facility operators maintain adherence to strict guidelines while protecting personnel, assets, and the environment. Optional features, including remote alarms and digital monitoring accessories, allow for integration into comprehensive tank management systems.
Lee Geurts, Vice President at Krueger Sentry Gauge, emphasized the company’s approach to addressing industry challenges: “Our goal was to develop a liquid level gauge that withstands the harsh realities of hydrochloric acid storage without compromising safety or accuracy. By leveraging chemically inert plastics throughout the design, we have created a solution that not only extends the operational lifespan of these gauges but also significantly reduces maintenance and risk. This advancement helps facilities maintain compliance and protects their employees from exposure to hazardous conditions.”
Facility managers and engineers often struggle with the dilemma of choosing between fragile glass sight tubes prone to breakage or metal gauges susceptible to corrosion when storing hydrochloric acid. Krueger Sentry Gauge’s plastic models eliminate this trade-off by delivering robust, enduring performance without sacrificing reliability. Their corrosion-resistant design also prevents the issues of float mechanism sticking or inaccurate readings, common problems that can result in tank overfill or process interruptions with costly repercussions.
Supporting the U.S. manufacturing sector, Krueger Sentry Gauge ensures consistent product quality and supply chain stability by producing these gauges domestically in the United States of America. Customers benefit from customized solutions tailored to exact tank dimensions and operational requirements, enhancing installation ease and long-term usability. This strategic approach addresses the broad needs of industries including chemical processing, water treatment, and industrial manufacturing, where hydrochloric acid and other corrosive substances are routinely managed.
In addition to hydrochloric acid applications, Krueger Sentry Gauge offers corrosion-resistant liquid level gauges compatible with a variety of other aggressive chemicals, such as bleach, sulfuric acid, and chlorine. This versatility solidifies the company’s reputation as a trusted provider of specialized tank monitoring equipment, committed to advancing chemical storage safety and operational efficiency.
