Report on Level Sensor Development

Abstract

This report details the development of sensors capable of measuring the level of liquid sodium at the Mechanisms Engineering Test Loop (METL) of Argonne National Laboratory. A differential pressure level sensor and variations of a mutually inductive level sensor have been designed, built, and tested in sodium at METL. A differential pressure level sensor was successfully calibrated during the initial dump tank sodium fill and continues to operate effectively. A differential pressure level sensor has been procured for use in the expansion tank. Three variations of mutually inductive level sensors have been designed, built, and tested in an out-of-sodium testing station in Building 308. The most advanced variation consists of a coil wound mineral insulated cable capable of continuous level measurement of liquid sodium up to 538°C over a range of 70”. Successful in-sodium testing occurred in late 2018.