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Rosemount 5300 Level Transmitter: Guided Wave Radar Technology for Reliable Level Measurement

October 24, 2025

Brian Craig

In modern industrial processes, precise level measurement is critical for safety, quality, and efficiency. Whether it’s managing storage tanks, reactors, or separators, reliable level data ensures smooth and optimized operations. The Rosemount 5300 Level Transmitter has become one of the most trusted instruments for continuous level and interface measurement — combining guided wave radar (GWR) technology with exceptional reliability and performance.

Engineered by Emerson, the 5300 series offers advanced diagnostics, high accuracy, and superior performance in both liquid and solid applications. It’s designed for challenging environments where traditional level measurement technologies often struggle.


What Is the Rosemount 5300 Level Transmitter?

The Rosemount 5300 Level Transmitter is a high-performance guided wave radar device that provides continuous level and interface measurement of liquids, slurries, and solids.

Unlike ultrasonic or capacitive sensors, the 5300 uses radar pulses guided along a probe to measure level precisely, regardless of vapor, pressure, foam, or temperature fluctuations.

It’s part of Emerson’s proven Rosemount radar product line — known for innovation, durability, and reliability — and is widely adopted in industries where accurate level data is mission-critical.


How the Rosemount 5300 Level Transmitter Works

The Rosemount 5300 operates based on Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR), a principle used in guided wave radar technology.

Here’s how it works:

  1. The transmitter sends short radar pulses down a metal probe inserted into the tank or vessel.

  2. When these pulses encounter a change in dielectric constant — such as the material surface — part of the signal reflects back to the transmitter.

  3. The time delay between the emitted and reflected signal is measured.

  4. The transmitter calculates the distance between the probe and the surface, determining the level of the medium.

Because the radar signal is guided along the probe, it remains unaffected by vapor, foam, or turbulence. This ensures consistent and accurate readings even in complex or dynamic process conditions.


Key Features of the Rosemount 5300 Level Transmitter

1. Guided Wave Radar Technology

Provides highly accurate and reliable measurement for both level and interface, independent of temperature, pressure, or vapor conditions.

2. Dual-Level Measurement

Can detect and measure both the top level and the interface level between two immiscible liquids (e.g., oil and water).

3. Superior Accuracy and Stability

Delivers accuracy up to ±3 mm, ensuring consistent performance across process variations.

4. No Calibration Required

Factory-calibrated for immediate installation and use, eliminating the need for field calibration.

5. Advanced Diagnostics

Built-in diagnostic tools detect process abnormalities such as buildup, foam, or signal loss before they affect performance.

6. Maintenance-Free Operation

No moving parts, ensuring long-term stability and reduced maintenance requirements.

7. Wide Material Compatibility

Available with coaxial, twin, and single rod or cable probes suitable for a variety of process media.

8. Communication Options

Supports HART®, FOUNDATION Fieldbus™, and Modbus® communication protocols for easy integration into control systems.

9. Robust Construction

Available in stainless steel and corrosion-resistant materials to withstand extreme conditions.


Advantages of Using the Rosemount 5300 Level Transmitter

1. Unaffected by Process Conditions

Delivers accurate readings in the presence of vapor, foam, pressure, or temperature variations.

2. Reliable Interface Measurement

Measures multiple liquid layers, ideal for applications like oil-water separation.

3. Long-Term Stability

Provides years of dependable operation without recalibration.

4. Reduced Maintenance Costs

No moving components and self-diagnostic capabilities lower maintenance effort and downtime.

5. Safety and Compliance

Certified for use in hazardous areas and compliant with global industrial safety standards.

6. High Signal Strength

Designed for applications with low dielectric materials or challenging process geometries.

7. Easy Installation and Setup

Compact design and pre-calibrated configuration simplify commissioning.


Applications of the Rosemount 5300 Level Transmitter

The 5300 Series is used across a wide range of industries for reliable level and interface measurement.

1. Oil and Gas Industry

  • Used for oil-water interface measurement in separators.

  • Monitors level in storage tanks, surge vessels, and pipelines.

  • Performs reliably under high temperature and high pressure.

2. Chemical and Petrochemical

  • Suitable for corrosive media, high-pressure reactors, and distillation columns.

  • Maintains accuracy even in processes with vapor or foam.

3. Power Generation

  • Monitors condensate tanks, feedwater systems, and steam drums.

  • Ensures process safety in pressurized and high-temperature environments.

4. Water and Wastewater Treatment

  • Provides accurate measurement in reservoirs, sludge tanks, and clarifiers.

  • Unaffected by vapor or turbulence in aeration basins.

5. Food and Beverage

  • Ensures precise level control in sanitary and hygienic processes.

  • Compatible with clean-in-place (CIP) and sterilization-in-place (SIP) operations.

6. Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology

  • Offers reliable measurement in sterile process environments with strict cleanliness requirements.

7. Mining and Bulk Solids

  • Suitable for solid level measurement in hoppers and silos, even with dust and low dielectric materials.


Probe Options for the Rosemount 5300

Different probe configurations ensure adaptability to various process conditions and materials:

Probe Type Description Best For
Coaxial Probe Provides the strongest signal and highest accuracy Low dielectric liquids and narrow vessels
Twin Probe Excellent for long-range and interface measurements Two-phase applications
Single Rod/Cable Probe Cost-effective, flexible solution Large tanks, solids, or viscous materials

Best Practices for Optimal Performance

  • Choose the correct probe type based on material and tank geometry.

  • Avoid installing too close to tank walls or agitators to prevent signal reflections.

  • Periodically inspect the probe for buildup in sticky or viscous materials.

  • Utilize diagnostic tools to monitor echo quality and process conditions.

  • Ensure proper grounding and shielding for electromagnetic compatibility.


Why Choose The Transmitter Shop

The Transmitter Shop (TTS) supplies a complete range of new and remanufactured Rosemount 5300 Level Transmitters, each tested and certified for accuracy, reliability, and durability.

Why Industries Trust TTS:

  • Factory-calibrated and performance-verified units

  • Competitive pricing with OEM-level quality assurance

  • Fast turnaround and global delivery support

  • Technical assistance from experienced engineers

  • Proven reliability across multiple industrial applications

Every transmitter provided by TTS is meticulously tested to ensure long-term stability, accuracy, and process compatibility.


5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of measurement does the Rosemount 5300 perform?
It provides continuous level and interface measurement using guided wave radar technology.

2. Can the 5300 handle multiple liquid layers?
Yes. It can measure both total level and interface between two liquids, such as oil and water.

3. Does vapor or foam affect accuracy?
No. The guided radar signal remains stable and unaffected by foam, vapor, or pressure variations.

4. What probe options are available?
Coaxial, twin, and single rod or cable probes are available, depending on the application.

5. Is the 5300 suitable for hazardous environments?
Yes. It is certified for hazardous and explosive environments, ensuring safety and compliance.


Conclusion

The Rosemount 5300 Level Transmitter stands as one of the most dependable and precise guided wave radar instruments in the industry. Its ability to deliver accurate level and interface measurements in complex process environments makes it a top choice for industrial applications.

With advanced diagnostics, robust construction, and minimal maintenance requirements, the 5300 ensures consistent performance, reduced downtime, and improved safety across diverse sectors.

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Brian Craig