Abstract
This case study examines the successful deployment of HONDE’s radar level sensors in water management systems across Indonesia’s agricultural municipalities. The project demonstrates how Chinese sensor technology addresses critical hydrological monitoring challenges in tropical agricultural environments, enhancing irrigation efficiency and flood prevention capabilities.
1. Project Background
In Central Java’s primary agricultural region, local municipal authorities faced significant challenges in water resource management:
- Inefficient Irrigation: Traditional canal systems suffered from water distribution imbalances, causing some fields to flood while others experienced drought
- Flood Damage: Seasonal rainfall frequently caused river overflows, damaging crops and infrastructure
- Data Gaps: Manual measurement methods provided unreliable and infrequent water level data
- Maintenance Issues: Existing contact sensors required frequent cleaning and calibration in sediment-rich waters
The municipal water authority sought an automated, reliable monitoring solution to optimize their water management systems.
2. Technology Solution: HONDE Radar Level Sensors
After evaluating multiple options, the municipality selected HONDE’s HRL-800 series radar level sensors for their monitoring network.
Key Selection Criteria:
- Non-Contact Measurement: Radar technology eliminated issues with sediment buildup and physical damage from debris
- High Accuracy: ±2mm measurement accuracy suitable for precise water control
- Environmental Resistance: IP68 rating and corrosion-resistant materials adapted to tropical conditions
- Low Power Consumption: Solar-powered operation capability for remote locations
- Data Integration: RS485/MODBUS output compatible with existing SCADA systems
3. Implementation Strategy
Phase 1: Pilot Deployment (First 3 Months)
- Installed 15 HONDE sensors at critical points in irrigation canals and river monitoring stations
- Established baseline measurements and calibration procedures
- Trained local technical staff on operation and maintenance
Phase 2: Full Deployment (Months 4-12)
- Expanded to 200 sensor units across the municipal water network
- Integrated with central water management platform
- Implemented automated alert systems for extreme water levels
4. Technical Implementation
The deployment included:
- Customized Mounting Solutions: Designed special brackets for various installation environments (canal bridges, riverbanks, reservoir walls)
- Power Systems: Hybrid solar-battery power units with 30-day backup capacity
- Communication Network: 4G/LoRaWAN data transmission for remote areas
- Local Interface: Bahasa Indonesia operating manuals and monitoring interface
5. Applications and Benefits
5.1 Irrigation Management
- Real-time monitoring of canal water levels enabled precise gate control
- Automated water distribution based on actual demand rather than fixed schedules
- 40% improvement in water utilization efficiency
- 25% reduction in water-related disputes among farmers
5.2 Flood Early Warning
- Continuous river level monitoring provided 6-8 hour advance flood warnings
- Integration with emergency response systems enabled timely evacuations
- 60% reduction in flood-related crop damage in pilot areas
5.3 Data-Driven Planning
- Historical water level data supported better infrastructure planning
- Identification of water theft and unauthorized usage
- Improved water allocation during dry seasons
6. Performance Results
Operational Metrics:
- Measurement Reliability: 99.8% data availability rate
- Accuracy: Maintained ±3mm accuracy in heavy rainfall conditions
- Maintenance: 80% reduction in maintenance requirements compared to ultrasonic sensors
- Durability: 95% of sensors operational after 18 months in field conditions
Economic Impact:
- Cost Savings: 40% lower total cost of ownership compared to European alternatives
- Crop Protection: Estimated $1.2M annual savings from prevented flood damage
- Labor Efficiency: 70% reduction in manual measurement labor costs
7. Challenges and Solutions
Challenge 1: Heavy tropical rainfall affecting signal accuracy
Solution: Implemented advanced signal processing algorithms and protective shrouds
Challenge 2: Limited technical expertise in remote areas
Solution: Established local service partnerships and simplified maintenance procedures
Challenge 3: Power reliability in remote locations
Solution: Deployed solar-powered units with battery backup systems
8. User Feedback
Local water management authorities reported:
- “The radar sensors have transformed our ability to manage water resources precisely”
- “Minimal maintenance requirements make these ideal for our remote locations”
- “The flood warning system has significantly reduced emergency response times”
Farmers noted:
- “More reliable water supply has improved our crop yields”
- “Advanced warning of floods helps us protect our investments”
9. Future Expansion Plans
Building on this success, the municipality plans:
- Network Expansion: Deploy additional 300 sensors across neighboring regions
- Integration: Connect with weather stations for predictive water management
- Advanced Analytics: Implement AI-based water prediction models
- Regional Replication: Share implementation models with other Indonesian municipalities
10. Conclusion
The successful implementation of HONDE radar level sensors in Indonesian agricultural municipalities demonstrates how appropriate technology transfer can address critical water management challenges. Key success factors included:
- Technology Fit: HONDE’s sensors specifically addressed tropical environment challenges
- Cost Effectiveness: High performance at accessible price points
- Local Adaptation: Customized solutions for local conditions and capabilities
- Capacity Building: Comprehensive training and support programs
This project serves as a model for other Southeast Asian regions seeking to modernize their agricultural water management systems through smart sensor technology. The partnership between Indonesian municipalities and Chinese sensor technology providers creates a win-win scenario for both agricultural productivity and technological advancement.
Complete set of servers and software wireless module, supports RS485 GPRS /4g/WIFI/LORA/LORAWAN
For more radar level sensor information,
please contact Honde Technology Co., LTD.
Email: info@hondetech.com
Company website: www.hondetechco.com
Tel: +86-15210548582
Post time: Sep-16-2025