Hydrostatic Pressure to Level Calculator
Calculate tank or liquid level from hydrostatic pressure using liquid density / specific gravity and gravity, with output in metric or imperial level units.
How to use this calculator
- 1
Enter the measured hydrostatic pressure and unit.
- 2
Choose density or specific gravity.
- 3
Enter the liquid property and gravity.
- 4
Choose the desired level unit and calculate.
Hydrostatic level measurement uses the pressure created by a liquid column. For an open or vented tank, the measured gauge pressure at the sensor is proportional to liquid height, density and gravitational acceleration.
This calculator is useful when sizing or checking a hydrostatic level transmitter, converting mH₂O or bar into liquid level, and understanding how density changes affect indicated level. Closed or pressurised tanks require vapour-space pressure compensation.
Formula and assumptions
For vented tanks, use gauge pressure at the measuring point. Closed tanks require compensation for vapour-space pressure.
Examples and guidance
- 0.0980665 bar on water at standard gravity corresponds to 1 metre.
- Use actual process density for oils, chemicals and temperature-dependent liquids.
Continue your calculation
Move between related pressure, level, flow, signal and measurement calculations without starting a new search.
Questions and answers
Should I use density or specific gravity?
Use measured density in kg/m³ when available. If using specific gravity, the calculator converts it using a 1000 kg/m³ reference density.
Does this work for pressurised tanks?
Only when the entered pressure represents the compensated liquid-column differential pressure. Vapour-space pressure must otherwise be removed.
Does sensor elevation affect the result?
Yes. Zero suppression or elevation caused by the sensor mounting position and impulse piping must be considered separately.