Future-proof technology helps refineries and bulk liquid storage plants handle the ever increasing demands on efficiency, safety and accuracy.
Emerson Process Management has announced its new Raptor tank gauging system which is fully scalable and based on open technology. As a result it is easy to install using exactly the devices needed today, as well as providing the ability to add or replace functionality in the future. This gives users the flexibility required to protect their investment over time allowing refineries and tank farms to stay efficient easily.
Unique safety and redundancy features
The Raptor system includes new safety technologies to help protect plant assets, the environment and human lives. One example is the unique 2-in-1 functionality – two independent gauges in one single enclosure – providing SIL 3 safety for overfill prevention. There are also a number of other dual redundant configurations available to suit individual tank safety requirements.
New level of net volume accuracy
Raptor is built around a new line of 0,5 mm precision radar level gauges, plus ultra stable temperature transmitters with 3 or 4-wire multiple spot sensors. The result is the highest available precision in net volume calculations for custody transfer and inventory management. Equipment such as pressure and water bottom measurement sensors can also be added as well as operator interface software. Having access to reliable and accurate tank content information in real-time is key to high plant efficiency, as the operators can handle even more tanks, fill the tanks higher and better utilise the storage capacity.
Large installation savings
Raptor reduces installation costs substantially. The unique bus powered 2-wire Tankbus is based on self-configuring Foundation Fieldbus technology, allowing easy start-up and integration of all system units. The tank units are intrinsically safe which means no expensive cable conduits are required. Communication to the control room can be made using Modbus over most existing cabling, or using other fieldbus standards.
There are many tank farms with gauging based on older technology, even in fairly recent installations, leading to maintenance problems and low performance. Raptor can emulate gauges from other manufacturers. This means the customers can add Raptor units to their existing system using the same cabling and control room infrastructure.
Wireless is an option
The Raptor system includes Emerson’s Smart Wireless functionality, which eliminates the need for long distance signal wiring. This is especially valuable when no suitable ground cabling is available and it is necessary to cross roads, or when ground conditions make cabling expensive. Wireless communication can also be used as a redundant and independent communication path besides the traditional wired communication.
High precision tank gauging
The system can be applied on all types of storage tanks, both fixed and floating roof. The radar gauges use the drip-off antenna concept, allowing them to be used in virtually any liquid ranging from light products such as LPG, LNG and gasoline to crude oils and asphalt.
For more information contact Mark Tapson, Emerson Process Management, +27 (0)11 974 3336, [email protected], www.emersonprocess.com
| Tel: | +27 11 451 3700 |
| Fax: | +27 451 3800 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| www: | www.emerson.com |
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