Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring


Petrochemical density and viscosity analyser

June 2004 Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring News

Realtime closed loop processes using viscosity or density as the control parameter are now a realistic and practical solution for a wide range of applications. Solartron Mobrey's density and viscosity analyser systems are based on its proven vibrating element transducers - and all configurations have been tried and tested. Built for hard work, Solartron transducers are unlike other viscosity sensors in that they contain no moving parts; require little or no maintenance and infrequent calibration.

At the heart of the viscosity systems, the 7827 viscosity analyser provides continuous accurate and repeatable measurements of dynamic viscosity, density and temperature, with a response measured in seconds rather than minutes. Most viscosity sensors only provide a measure of line dynamic viscosity. But 7827 - in conjunction with a Solartron 795x signal converter/flow computer - provides accurate measurement of:

* Kinematic viscosity (cST) at line temperature.

* Base/referred density.

* Base kinematic viscosity at fixed or variable reference temperatures.

Solartron Mobrey's expertise in the on-line measurement of viscosity and density has been harnessed for applications such as:

* Heavy fuel oil, feedstock and bitumen blending.

* Crude oil viscosity control for pipelines.

* Controlling polymerisation.

* Distillation and quench oil applications.

* De-asphalting processes.

* Lube oil production.

* Heavy fuel oil viscosity conditioning for engines.

* Flowmeter correction.

* Interface detection.

Viscosity analyser systems

The viscosity of a fluid at a reference temperature is a sensitive indicator of its quality. Viscosity analysers are therefore required to indicate the viscosity at one or more base or reference temperatures. The Solartron viscosity analyser systems are capable of accurate and reliable base viscosity determination. Using viscosity for process control presents several technical challenges:

* Measuring dynamic viscosity at line conditions accurately enough to provide the precise base viscosity required for process control.

* Converting dynamic viscosity to kinematic viscosity.

* Deriving base viscosity from line viscosity.

* Having a rapid response to changes in fluid composition and temperature.

* Performing reliably under the arduous conditions usually experienced in the oil and petrochemical industry.

Using designs and methods pioneered by Solartron, viscosity analyser systems are proving a highly successful low maintenance solution in the most demanding of applications.

Density systems interface detection

In multiproduct pipelines the interface between the products must be detected and measured so that diverter valve systems can operate accurately to separate the products and divert them to the appropriate storage tanks. Density has proved to be an efficient indicator for product identification, and can be implemented using a single density meter. In some refineries where leaded and unleaded gasoline or different qualities of diesel are to be segregated, two density meters may be used in a density difference system.

Represented in southern Africa on an exclusive basis by Dupleix Liquid Meters (DLM) Solartron Mobrey will design systems based on proven techniques to suit clients, individual application requirements for viscosity measurement, meter correction or interface detection. The skids are designed by Solartron Mobrey UK and built in partnership with DLM and experienced systems constructors to meet clients' standards and local regulatory conditions.

For more information contact Dave Rosser, DLM, 011 457 0500, dave@dlm.co.za, www.dlm.co.za



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Getting the chemistry right
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Grace’s European production site has relied on analogue compression load cells from Minebea Intec for decades, with the long-proven measurement concept now serving as the reference for new silo projects as the company expands its capacity.

Read more...
Why measurement matters in smelting
Endress+Hauser South Africa Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
South African smelters returning to operation after energy constraints face new demands for tighter control, better visibility and environmental compliance. Endress+Hauser explains how modern measurement technology supports safer, more efficient furnace operation and local beneficiation.

Read more...
Sun tracking with pinpoint precision
Senseca Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Senseca has introduced the SEMS-2000 solar energy measurement system, a 2-axis solar tracker with pinpoint sun-pointing accuracy that automatically monitors direct, global and diffuse irradiance for unattended outdoor solar installations.

Read more...
AMETEK expands 993X gas analyser series with explosion-proof enclosures
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
AMETEK Process Instruments has added ATEX and IECEx Zone 1-certified explosion-proof enclosures to its 993X series of gas analysers, enabling reliable installation in Zone 1 hazardous locations where purge gas is unavailable.

Read more...
Why medical device leak testing matters for South Africa's MedTech future
ATEQ South Africa Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
As South Africa works to grow local medical technology manufacturing, non-destructive leak and flow testing is becoming a strategic quality assurance tool, helping manufacturers verify device integrity, meet regulatory requirements and improve production efficiency.

Read more...
Moving forward with reverse osmosis
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Rising water costs and pressure on infrastructure are changing the way industries view reverse osmosis. G-Chem Aquacare is developing tailored, containerised solutions that make the technology more accessible for South African industry.

Read more...
Meteorological data logger with up to 32 analogue sensors
Senseca Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Senseca has introduced its advanced data acquisition system for environmental monitoring, which has a universal data logger for up to 32 analogue, pulse and smart digital sensors.

Read more...
From the editor's desk: Local can be international
Technews Publishing Editor's Choice News
Welcome to the July 2026 issue of Dataweek. As you can see from this introduction, Dataweek’s regular editor, Peter Howells, is on extended leave and I am filling the void in his editor’s column – hopefully without being too boring.

Read more...
Yamaha Robotics will show visitors to EFX
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services News
Yamaha Robotics will show visitors to EFX 2026, the Expo for Electronics Manufacturing, in Stuttgart from 6-8 October 2026, how advanced surface-mount automation helps companies grow their business and increase productivity.

Read more...
Importance of gas analysis in the petrochemical industry
Elemental Analytics Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Gas analysis plays a critical role in petrochemical operations, supporting process optimisation, product quality and plant safety. As an experienced and expert gas analysis supplier, Elemental Analytics can provide the correct analyser and sample system package to meet individual plant requirements.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved