Refinery flow measurement solutions

Flow Measurement & Control

May 2013 Flow Measurement & Control

The multitude of processes in a refinery form a complex system of material and energy flows. From incoming crude to outgoing products, everything is flowing, and to ensure safe and efficient operation, these flows need to be measured. Harsh process conditions can make heavy demands on flowmeters, especially at temperatures between 200 and 400°C.

Flexim’s high temperature transducers for the direct pipe coupling are capable of withstanding permanent pipe temperature of up to 200°C. For applications where pipe temperatures exceed this, Flexim engineered the patented WaveInjector which separates the ultrasonic transducer from the hot pipe, allowing a permanent, reliable and accurate operation at process temperatures up to 400°C.

Unique measurement technology

The WaveInjector is used all over the world by some of the biggest names in the process industry: from crude oil to coal tar distillates, the WaveInjector remains accurate and reliable under the toughest conditions. WaveInjector can also be used on extremely cold pipes, with temperatures as low as -160°C. As the ultrasonic transducers are thermally separated from the pipe, their temperature can be kept within the standard operating temperature range. At such low temperatures, the WaveInjector is used, amongst others, in LNG peak-shaving facilities where surplus natural gas is stored in order to meet the requirements of peak consumption during winter or summer.

Advantages and benefits

The WaveInjector, along with the ultrasonic transducers, is simply clamped on to the outer surface of the pipe, using coupling plates for a proper acoustic contact. This means that there is no need to open the pipe, so there is no drilling or process shut-down required.

Once installed, the transducers do not suffer from wear and tear of the process fluid, and they create no pressure drop. The FM, CSA and ATEX-certified transducers and transmitters are a safeguard in potentially explosive atmospheres. The high dynamic range of Flexim’s ultrasonic technology offers advantages for accurate flow rate measurement.

For more information contact Peter Jones Electronic Equipment, +27 (0)11 608 2944, [email protected], www.peterjones.co.za

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Flow Measurement & Control

Refinery flow measurement solutions

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