Temperature solutions in re-esterification process
Renewable fuels are becoming more prevalent as the world becomes more concerned over costly fossil fuels.
Process
A German process technology company has developed a process by which it is possible to produce biodiesel from rapeseed oil through re-esterification with methanol to obtain rapeseed methyl ester (RME). This process supplies motor fuel meeting DIN 51606.
The re-esterification process takes place in two stages. Phase separators are arranged downstream of two reactors which are designed as mixer settlers. Through intimate mixing of the reactants, it is possible to achieve maximum conversion rates in relatively short retention times. The methyl ester produced is washed and dried to become the end product, whereas the glycerine phase is treated with methanol water and can be processed into pharma-grade glycerine.
This continuous process ensures constantly high product quality and boasts low catalyst consumption. Moreover, the process is easy to control and warrants high conversion yield rates.
Temperature measurement
Biodiesel manufacturing involves monitoring temperature at several points in the process. Typical measurement points are in distillation columns to control temperature. To ensure a quality product, temperature monitoring and control are critical.
The TMT184 from Endress+Hauser is a temperature head transmitter equipped with a Profibus-PA interface. This unit is a 2-wire transmitter with measurement inputs for resistance thermometers, thermocouples, voltage transmitters and resistance transmitters with 2-, 3- or 4-wire connection. Applications are in the measurement and control areas for process monitoring. Setup is accomplished using the Profibus-PA protocol in conjunction with PC software such as FieldCare.
The Endress+Hauser TMT184 is available with ATEX Ex ia certification
Many industrial plants directly wire temperature sensors due to the short runs involved. However, there are numerous benefits to using temperature transmitters. These include:
* Reduced wiring costs.
* Elimination of plant noise and avoid ground loops.
* Galvanic isolation.
For more information contact Trevor Fletcher, Endress+Hauser, +27 (0) 11 262 8000, info@za.endress.com
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