Developed the "STD series" Immersion-type water level gauge that prevents rust, corrosion and barnacles
～A water level gauge that can be used for a long time even at sea or in cold regions～

JTEKT Corporation has developed the "STD series" Immersion-type water level gauge, which is resistant to rust, corrosion and freezing and can be used for long periods of time in seawater areas, sewage facilities and cold regions.

Development Background

JTEKT has set the JTEKT Group 2030 Vision and aims to become "a solution provider that creates the future of mobility society through manufacturing and manufacturing equipment." The JTEKT Group is utilizing a technology platform that brings together competencies, which are elemental technologies and knowledge related to products and manufacturing equipment, in one place, and is in the process of opening a solution co-creation center that combines these competencies to propose solutions to problems within the company and in society.

Water level gauges are used to measure the water level in rivers and dams, and also contribute to preventing flood damage caused by recent environmental changes such as climate change. JTEKT began selling the "TD series" water level gauge in 1986 and has delivered over 50,000 units to date. They are still being used to measure water levels all over Japan.
On the other hand, water level gauges are prone to rust and corrosion when used in seawater or sewage facilities where the water has a high concentration of components, and in seawater, there is concern that barnacles may attach to them and cause loss of function. Furthermore, in cold regions, water level gauges may freeze and be damaged. In response to these issues, JTEKT has collaborated with partner companies to combine the competencies of both parties to develop a new water level gauge, the "STD series," that can be used for a long time in a variety of environments.

Features of STD series

The STD series uses a cover made of a special resin developed by our co-creation partner to prevent the water level gauge body from coming into direct contact with liquid. This means there is no need to worry about rust or corrosion, and it can be used for a long period of time in seawater and sewerage facilities. We are currently conducting demonstration experiments so that it can also be used with hot spring water.
When measuring water levels in seawater, barnacles and other marine organisms can attach to the water level gauge, causing it to malfunction. As a countermeasure, The marine life fouling prevention seal are affixed to specific locations to prevent marine organisms from attaching.
Furthermore, to allow safe use in cold regions without worrying about freezing, silicone oil is filled between the main body and the special resin cover. This allows accurate water level measurement without freezing in water temperatures down to -30°C.

※The marine life fouling prevention seal has a validity period of one year, so we recommend replacing it regularly.

Sales start date

December 2024

Future outlook

JTEKT will continue to propose the STD series as a solution that meets the needs of customers responsible for water level measurement, including local governments nationwide, and contribute to water level measurement under all water quality conditions.
There is a risk that the frequency of flooding, such as inland flooding and external flooding caused by abnormal weather, will continue to increase on a global scale. Even in such circumstances, JTEKT will continue to contribute to preventing the spread of flood damage and ultimately to the safe and secure lives of people through the STD series.