Understanding the Use of Magnetic Level Gages and ASME Code Compliance on Power Boiler Applications
- Aug 29, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 7
A Jerguson® Magnicator® with Guided Wave Radar (MGWR™) is heading to an engineering company in the Midwest US, where it will be used on a boiler application at an agriculture company. It's a good opportunity to look at what makes the MGWR configuration distinct, and why ASME code compliance matters before specifying any magnetic level gage on a power boiler.
What Is Guided Wave Radar?
Guided wave radar (GWR) is a level-sensing technology that sends a low-energy microwave pulse down a probe extending into the process fluid. The pulse reflects off the surface of the liquid, and the time it takes to return is used to calculate precise level. Unlike float-based sensing, GWR has no moving parts in contact with the process fluid at all — the probe itself is stationary.
Why Pair GWR with a Magnicator?
Combining GWR with a Magnicator gives a facility two independent, complementary forms of level information from a single installation:
The Magnicator's magnetic float and external indicator provide direct visual confirmation of level at a glance — no power required, readable by any operator walking past
The Guided Wave Radar provides a precise, continuous electronic signal for transmission to a control system, alarms, or automation
This combination is valuable specifically because it offers both a passive, always-available visual reading and an active, continuously transmitted signal from the same chamber — rather than requiring two entirely separate instruments in two separate locations.
Why ASME Code Compliance Matters Before You Specify
A magnetic level gage can be an excellent addition to the drum level instrumentation on a power boiler application. But before specifying one, it's essential to understand the specific minimum requirements for water level instrumentation set out in the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code — including pressure limitations, indication scale restrictions, and the rule that a magnetic level gage supplements but never replaces the code-required direct-reading gage glass.
We've covered these requirements in detail separately, including the 900 PSIG pressure ceiling for magnetic level gages on boilers and the specific installation rules that apply.
Why This Matters for Agricultural Boiler Applications
Agriculture companies operating boilers — whether for processing, drying, or steam-based operations — face the same ASME code requirements as any other power boiler application. Combining a Magnicator with GWR gives these facilities reliable visual confirmation for on-site personnel alongside the electronic signal needed for modern control and monitoring systems, without sacrificing code compliance on either front.
Learn More
For guidance on specifying a Magnicator with Guided Wave Radar for your boiler application, or to understand the full ASME code requirements for magnetic level gages, reach out to a Jerguson Application Engineer.
