Showing posts with label Pennsylvania. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pennsylvania. Show all posts

Accurate Low-Flow Measurement and High-speed Communication in Supercritical Fluid Extraction and Chromatography Systems

Low-Flow Measurement in Supercritical Fluid Extraction
Low-Flow Measurement in Supercritical Fluid Extraction
A food producer removes caffeine from coffee beans to create a decaffeinated version of its most popular blend. A manufacturer of dietary supplements extracts pesticides and organic solvents from ginseng to ensure a higher-quality end product. A crime laboratory measures the amount of morphine in a blood sample to analyze the usage habits of a drug addict.

These scenarios might not appear to share much in common – after all, what does your favorite morning beverage have to do with forensic drug testing? – but there are important similarities. In each example, a supercritical fluid can be used to carry out precise, efficient, low-toxicity chemical extraction or chromatography.

SITRANS F C MASS 2100  SITRANS FCT010
SITRANS F C MASS 2100
sensor paired with the
SITRANS FCT010
digital transmitter
Regardless of the industry or application, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and super- critical fluid chromatography (SFC) require a very specific set of operating conditions. Keeping the environment just right for SFE and SFC requires consistently accurate process measurements – all of which are made possible by incorporating a high-performance Coriolis mass flowmeter designed to measure accurately at low flow rates.

Download this Application Note Here

The Application

An analytical science corporation in the northeastern USA develops instruments for laboratory-based applications across a broad range of industrial, academic and government organizations. Among their specialties are SFE and SFC systems tailored to the specific needs of customers and designed to extract and/or measure a variety of chemical compounds.

Their systems rely on supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) instead of organic solvents to provide selective sample extractions and/or measurement. CO2 normally behaves as a gas at standard temperature and pressure, or as dry ice when frozen. But when CO2 is held at or above its critical temperature of 31.2 °C (87.8 °F) and critical pressure of 73.8 bar (1071.6 psi), it achieves a super- critical state midway between a gas and a liquid, with liquid-like density and solvating power but a viscosity near zero. Using supercritical CO2 results in shorter completion times and purer extracts – not to mention lower operating costs in comparison to solvent-based systems.

To kick off SFE or SFC, supercritical CO2 is pumped into the system and passes through an integrated Coriolis flowmeter, which measures the incoming mass flow rate, density and temperature. This is a crucial step in both processes, as it’s the prima- ry way to ensure that all CO2 flowing into the system remains in the desired fluid state. Once conditions are verified by the flowmeter, the CO2 helps to extract the compounds (in SFE) or separate and measure them (in SFC).

The Challenge

For more than 15 years, the company has had the option to add a SITRANS F C Coriolis flowmeter from Siemens to their SFE and SFC systems, depending on customer requirements. Their meter of choice consisted of a MASS 2100 sensor in size DI 1.5 (1/16”) and a MASS 6000 transmitter. They initially selected the Siemens solution because of its capability for very accurate measurement – as high as 0.1% of flow rate – under the low-flow conditions required for chemical extraction and measurement with supercritical CO2. The robust construction of the MASS 2100 sensor also offered the reassurance of long-term durability, even in high-pressure environments.

Over time, the company recognized the need to expand into a broader market- place by ensuring that all of their super- critical fluid solutions complied with the RoHS Directive for hazardous materials, which would open the opportunity to sell into the European Union. Having come to appreciate the reliability of the SITRANS F C product line and the responsiveness of Siemens customer support, they turned to Siemens for a digitally based, RoHS-compliant Coriolis flow alternative. That’s when they were introduced to the SITRANS FCT010.

The Solution

Part of the next-generation digital flow platform from Siemens, the FCT010 is a powerful, very compact Coriolis transmitter designed especially for skids and other small-footprint assemblies – a major benefit for the SFE and SFC systems given their limited availability of space.

Another prerequisite for selection was superior performance, and the FCT010 does not disappoint. The transmitter measures with advanced digital signal processing technology, so it produces a stronger signal-to-noise ratio than an analog transmitter for higher accuracy, improved resistance to process noise and a more stable zero point. The FCT010 can also detect and respond to even the smallest changes in flow with a best-in-class 100 Hz update rate.

The company was pleased to learn that the new transmitter could be paired seamlessly with the existing MASS 2100 sensor, which over the course of 15 years has proven to be the ideal low-flow sensor for measuring supercritical CO2. They also liked that the FCT010 is extremely simple to install as a result of its small size and easy-to-use wiring connections.

Ultimately, they placed an order for 100 FCT010 transmitters to be included with new SFE and SFC systems. Now that the enhanced Coriolis flow solutions are in place, the upgraded systems are benefit- ting from faster communication coupled with better process data – all of which adds up to higher-precision, more effi- cient extractions and measurements for laboratories.

With help from the digitally powered SITRANS F C Coriolis flow family, the corporation is equipping manufacturers and researchers with advanced tools that optimize science, commerce and their bottom lines.

For more information, call Ives Equipment at (877) 768-1600 or visit https://ivesequipment.com.

Reprinted with permission from Siemens.

Expertly Applying Process Control Instrumentation, Valves, and Process Equipment for Over 60 Years

Ives Equipment, founded in 1954, provides a diverse range of process control equipment, including valves, regulators, wireless products, flow products, pressure gauges, control products, level instrumentation, sanitary products, temperature instruments, analytical products, electric heat trace and bio-pharmaceutical products.


Explosion-Proof ASIC or HART Pressure Transmitter

UE TX200
UE TX200
The TX200 is a compact, rugged pressure transmitter utilizing ASIC technology to provide optimum sensor signal conditioning and temperature compensation of the sensor output. It is designed for process control industries worldwide and ideally suited for petrochemical and upstream oil and gas applications. The TX200 provides a cost-effective solution to using conventional process transmitters.

The  fixed range model TX200B is recommended for use where process pressure is consistent within the range and where physical access to the transmitter is limited or not required.

The field adjustable model TX200A allows access to zero and span the transmitter. The transmitter may be spanned up to 5:1 and for ease of calibration, does not require a calibrated pressure source and can be calibrated in-place.

Both TX200 models feature an all welded, 316 stainless steel hermetically sealed enclosure providing airtight and watertight protection within the harshest environments. A 316 stainless steel, rotatable cover protects product markings and adjustment buttons (TX200A) from the elements and tampering. The TX200 lends itself to control panel mounting or direct process mounting due to its light-weight, cylindrical design.

TX200H Hart Models

The TX200H is a HART Smart pressure transmitter that provides simplified  eld adjustment while reliably communicating asset management data utilizing the latest HART 7 specification. A proprietary calibration process insures optimum temperature compensation limiting thermal effects on the sensor output. As with the ASIC TX200, it is suited for process control industries worldwide and provides a cost-effective solution to using conventional HART transmitters.

Download the PDF cut sheet for the UE TX200 from this link or read the embedded document below.

For more information on United Electric Controls products, contact Ives Equipment by calling (877) 768-1600 or by visiting https://ivesequipment.com.

What Are Turbine Flow Meters?

Turbine Flow Meter
Turbine Flow Meter (Niagara WPX)
Turbine flow meters are process instruments used in a variety of industrial applications to measure the flow of a fluids. These types of flow meters operate under the simple principle that the rotation of the turbine will be constant as the turbine is acted upon by a fluid passing through the flow meter.

Turbine flow meters use the mechanical energy of the fluid to rotate a turbine blade in the flow stream and provide precise and accurate flow measurement. The flow impinging upon the turbine blades causes the rotor to spin. The angular velocity of a turbine flow meter is proportional to flow rate. The rotational velocity of the turbine is interpreted as an electrical frequency output through the use of magnetic pick-ups. As each turbine blade passes by the magnetic pick-up coil, a voltage pulse is generated which is a measure of the flow rate. The total number of pulses gives a measure of the total flow which can be totalized with a maximum error of a single pulse.

The relationship of the angle of the turbine meter blades to the flow stream governs the angular velocity and the output frequency of the meter. The sharper the angle of the turbine blade, the higher the frequency output.

Easy to maintain while also boasting reliability, turbine flow meters are known to be cost-effective solutions that make an ideal device for measuring flow rate. Aside from excellent rangeability, they also provide high response rate and high accuracy compared to other available types of flow meters. Turbine flow meters are sturdy, need very little maintenance, and seldom exhibit much deviation in performance.

These meters are used in multiple industries to reliably measure the velocity of a variety of liquids, gases and vapors over a very broad range of flow rates, temperatures, and viscosities. Turbine flow meters are used to provide measurement information in crude oil production, chemical processing, blending systems, tank storage, product off-loading, product loading, and many other applications across many industries.

Advantages
  • Simple and durable structure
  • Easy to install and maintain
  • Low pressure drop
  • Operate best in applications with fast, steadyflows
  • Operate under a wide range of temperatures and pressures
Disadvantages
  • Require straight run of pipe upstream and downstream
  • Need constant back-pressure
  • Best for lower fluid viscosity
  • Bubbles in liquids affect accuracy
  • Bearing wear
(877) 768-1600

An Exceptional Clamp- on Ultrasonic Flow Measurement Solution for Any Liquid Process

SITRANS FS230 flow system
The SITRANS FS230 digital clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter is a process-optimizing solution for measuring flow in virtually any liquid application. Designed to provide both exceptional performance and outstanding cost savings, the FS230 is an ideal fit for many industries requiring high-quality liquid flow measurement – including water and wastewater, HVAC and power, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical, mining and pulp and paper.

The SITRANS FS230 flow system consists of a SITRANS FST030 transmitter paired with SITRANS FSS200 clamp-on ultrasonic sensors, which are available in three different models: WideBeam® (High-Precision), Universal and High-Temperature.

Download the PDF from the Ives Equipment web site here, or read the document embedded below.

For more information, contact Ives by calling 877-768-1600 or by visiting https://ivesequipment.com.

SIEMENS SITRANS LR250

SITRANS LR250
The SIEMENS SITRANS LR250 is a great choice for liquid level measurement in storage and process vessels up to 66 feet (20 meters). With a variety of antennas, the LR250 can handle a broad scope of level applications. The SITRANS LR250 flanged and hygienic encapsulated antennas mean corrosive or aggressive materials and hygienic or sanitary requirements are no challenge for this transmitter.

https://ivesequipment.com
877-768-1600


Siemens SIWAREX WT231 and WT241 Weighing Terminals

The SIWAREX WT231 and WT241  are weighing terminals for industrial use. Siemens standard components are installed in a stainless steel enclosure with numerous connection options. This ensures the tried and tested SIWAREX quality as standalone solution and is ideal for container weighers or platform scales.

SIWAREX is the optimum solution wherever strain gauge sensors, such as load cells, force sensors or torque measuring shafts, are used for measuring tasks. The typical applications of SIWAREX  are:
  • Non-automatic scales
  • Fill level monitoring of silos and bunkers
  • Measuring of crane and cable loads
  • Load measuring for industrial lifts and rolling mills
  • Force measuring, container weighers, platform scales and crane scales
SIWAREX offers the following key advantages:
  • Complete solution – no configuration in SIMATIC required
  • Fast and easy commissioning due to intuitive operating concept
  • The stainless steel enclosure permits applications in many diverse environments
  • Integrated connecting terminals for up to 4 load cells
  • Flexible connection to different systems through diverse interfaces
    • - four digital inputs
    • - four digital outputs
    • - one analog output
    • - RS 485 interface and Modbus RTU
  • High resolution of the load cell signal of up to ± 4 million parts
  • Comprehensive diagnostics functions
  • Recovery-point for the simple restoration of all parameters
  • Automatic calibration is possible without the need for calibration weights
  • All diagnostic and error messages as well as all scale parameters in plain text
  • 100-240 VAC supply range

Contact Ives Equipment by calling 877-768-1600 of by visiting https://ivesequipment.com.

Electronic Pressure Measurement: AMETEK USG Model 1536 Stainless Steel Semiconductor Pressure Gauges

Download the PDF here.

DESCRIPTION
Model 1536 Stainless Steel Semiconductor Pressure Gauge
AMETEK USG Model 1536
Stainless Steel Pressure Gauge for
Semiconductor Industry


AMETEK U.S. Gauge Model 1536 pressure gauges are designed and manufactured for gas distribution equipment used in semiconductor manufacturing. These 2 inch, all stain- less steel gauges are clean room produced, nitrogen purged, and double bagged.

These instruments are compatible with many toxic and corrosive gases. Welded face seal connections provide a threadless pressure seal and virtually eliminate a major source of contamination. Also available in NPT connections.

The Model 1536 is available in pressure ranges from 0 to 30 inches Hg VAC, to 0 to 4000 psi. This precision gauge incorporates rugged case construction with pressure relief.

FEATURES
  • Cleaning for UHP gas applications exceeding ANSI B40.100 specifications 
  • Ra: 10 μinch (0.25 μm) finish on face seal connections 
  • Helium leak tested to con rm leakage rates of less than 10-9 scc/sec. 
  • All stainless steel (Type 316L) internal surfaces for corrosion resistance 
  • Large, easy-to-read dial graduations 
  • Handles wide variety of exotic gases 
  • Available with welded face seal fittings, or NPT connection 
  • Assembled and packaged in Class 10 clean room 
  • Low mount or center back connections
SPECIFICATIONS
Close-up of VCR connection
Close-up of
VCR connection
  • Size: 2 inch diameter
  • Case: Drawn stainless steel polished with pressure relief Ring and Window: One piece, threaded polycarbonate Pointer: Aluminum, black finish.
  • Dial: Aluminum, white background with black markings Bourdon Tube: Type 316L stainless steel.
  • Connection: Type 316L stainless steel, low mount or center back mount, male or female face seal  fitting, or 1/4 inch male NPT – connectors are shipped with protective plastic caps.
  • Surface Finish:
    • Face seal connections: Ra: 10 μinch (0.25 μm) 1/4 inch NPT connections: 32 Ra.
  • Ranges: 30 inches Hg vacuum to 4000 psi, single or dual scale, see ordering information.
  • Overpressure: 130% of span maximum Working Temperature:
  • Ambient: -40°F (-40°C) to 149°F (65°C) Fluid: Maximum 212°F (100°C) Accuracy:
  • ±1% of span.
  • Scales: psi, bar, kg/cm2, KPa, MPa (single or dual scale) inches Hg (for vacuum range, compound and vacuum gauges only).

What Are Industrial Control Systems?

Control systems
Control system diagram (click for larger view).
Control systems are computer-based systems that are used by many infrastructures and industries to monitor and control sensitive processes and physical functions. Typically, control systems collect sensor measurements and operational data from the field, process and display this information, and relay control commands to local or remote equipment. In the electric power industry they can manage and control the transmission and delivery of electric power, for example, by opening and closing circuit breakers and setting thresholds for preventive shutdowns. Employing integrated control systems, the oil and gas industry can control the refining operations on a plant site as well as remotely monitor the pressure and flow of gas pipelines and control the flow and pathways of gas transmission. In water utilities, they can remotely monitor well levels and control the wells’ pumps; monitor flows, tank levels, or pressure in storage tanks; monitor water quality characteristics, such as pH, turbidity, and chlorine residual; and control the addition of chemicals. Control system functions vary from simple to complex; they can be used to simply monitor processes—for example, the environmental conditions in a small office building—or manage most activities in a municipal water system or even a nuclear power plant.

In certain industries such as chemical and power generation, safety systems are typically implemented to mitigate a disastrous event if control and other systems fail. In addition, to guard against both physical attack and system failure, organizations may establish back-up control centers that include uninterruptible power supplies and backup generators.

Control systems
There are two primary types of control systems. Distributed Control Systems (DCS) typically are used within a single processing or generating plant or over a small geographic area. Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems typically are used for large, geographically dispersed distribution operations. A utility company may use a DCS to generate power and a SCADA system to distribute it.

Control systemsA control system typically consists of a “master” or central supervisory control and monitoring station consisting of one or more human-machine interfaces where an operator can view status information about the remote sites and issue commands directly to the system. Typically, this station is located at a main site along with application servers and an engineering workstation that is used to configure and troubleshoot the other control system components. The supervisory control and monitoring station is typically connected to local controller stations through a hard- wired network or to remote controller stations through a communications network—which could be the Internet, a public switched telephone network, or a cable or wireless (e.g. radio, microwave, or Wi-Fi) network. Each controller station has a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU), a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), DCS controller, or other controller that communicates with the supervisory control and monitoring station. The controller stations also include sensors and control equipment that connect directly with the working components of the infrastructure—for example, pipelines, water towers, and power lines. The sensor takes readings from the infrastructure equipment—such as water or pressure levels, electrical voltage or current—and sends a message to the controller. The controller may be programmed to determine a course of action and send a message to the control equipment instructing it what to do—for example, to turn off a valve or dispense a chemical. If the controller is not programmed to determine a course of action, the controller communicates with the supervisory control and monitoring station before sending a command back to the control equipment. The control system also can be programmed to issue alarms back to the operator when certain conditions are detected. Handheld devices, such as personal digital assistants, can be used to locally monitor controller stations. Experts report that technologies in controller stations are becoming more intelligent and automated and communicate with the supervisory central monitoring and control station less frequently, requiring less human intervention.

Contact Ives Equipment with any control systems question of challenge. Reach them by calling (877) 768-1600 or by visiting https://ivesequipment.com.

Alfa Laval Hygienic Liquid/Liquid Gasketed Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger

The following video illustrates the working principle of an Alfa Laval liquid/liquid 1-pass gasketed plate-and frame heat exchanger for use in hygienic applications. The hot liquid (shown in red) typically enters through one of the top connections and leaves through a lower connection. The cold liquid (shown in blue) enters through one of the bottom connections and leaves through the connection on top. Heat is transferred from the hot media to the cold media as the fluids pass through the heat exchanger.

The fluids enter the heat transfer plates through the connections and portholes. Highly engineered sealing gaskets between the plates direct the fluids so that the hot and cold fluids pass counter-currently in alternating channels. When the fluid enters between the plates, it passes over the distribution area.  Alfa Laval’s unique design distribution area is one of the most important features of a plate heat exchanger as it ensures an even flow of fluid over the entire plate, maximizes heat transfer efficiency, and minimizes maldistribution and fouling.

Note in the video the distribution area helps the fluids quickly fill up the entire cross section of the plates.

For very heat sensitive media, co-current flow is used in gasketed plate-and-frame heat exchangers allowing the coldest fluid meets the hottest fluid when entering the heat exchanger. This minimizes the risk of overheating or freezing sensitive media. Watching the video, imagine that the hot fluid is reversed, so that both fluids are entering at the bottom connections.

Alfa Laval has an extremely broad range of gasketed plate-and-frame heat exchangers which are used in all types of industries.

For more information about heat exchanger for use in hygienic applications contact Ives Equipment by calling (877) 768-1600 or by visiting https://www.ivesequipment.com.

Basic Information for the Design and Selection of Heat Trace Products for Pipe and Vessel Heating

Heat Tracing
Heat Tracing Self-Regulating Cable
To specify components for an effectively designed, totally electric heat trace system, it is necessary to understand the basic principles involved. A heat trace system is designed to replace heat lost through the thermal insulation from equipment in the system. In some applications, heat tracing will also be able to provide enough heat to significantly change the process temperature. 

It is always recommended to use thermal insulation since heat loss from bare surfaces is very high and heat transfer between the heater and the pipe/vessel is highly variable. All insulation should be weatherproofed. Wet insulation is ineffectual and heater output is insufficient to dry it.

There are several distinctively different types of electric heaters - self regulating, constant wattage, mineral insulated and tank heating panels. Each type has its own characteristics, often making one more suitable for a certain application than the others.


Self Regulating Heater Cable
Self Regulating Heater Cable will adjust its own output in response to pipe temperature. Available in a variety of temperature and power ratings up to 230°C (450°F) and 65.6w/m (20w/ft.). Product features include:
  • Variable Output
    • Self-Regulating heaters will react to variations in temperature encountered at every point along its length. Colder sections receive more heat output, while warmer sections receive less. This provides greater energy efficiency and more uniform pipe temperatures.
  • Can Be Overlapped Without Damage
    • Because Self-Regulating heaters controls its own output, overlapped sections produce less heat, eliminating “hot spots” and possible burn-through common with other types of cable.
  • Fail Safe
    • Upon reaching the upper limits of its temperature range, Self-Regulating heaters diminishes its own heat output to an insignificant level. This guarantees that maximum temperatures (T ratings) cannot be exceeded no matter what product is used in any application.
  • Easy Installation
    • Because of its infinite parallel path circuitry, Self-Regulating heaters can be cut to any length in the field without affecting the heat output or creating “dead zones”.
Constant-Wattage Heater Cable
Constant Wattage Heat Tracing
Constant Wattage Heat Tracing Cable

Constant Wattage Heater Cable is a parallel resistance heater that produces the same watts-per-foot of heat along its entire length.
  • EasyInstallation
    • Constant-Wattage heaters can be cut to length and terminated in the field. 
  • Economical 
    • Provides good power densities and exposure temperatures with parallel circuit cable capabilities at economical prices. Exposure Temperatures to +204°C (+400°F). Ideal for maintaining many process temperature applications. 
Mineral Insulated Heater Cable
MI Cable
MI Cable

Mineral insulated Cable is a series conductor, high temperature heater cable with a special, thin metal sheath. Some of MI advantages are:
  • Corrosion-Resistant
    • Alloy 825 sheath provides excellent corrosion resistance and immunity from chloride stress corrosion - a common problem with stainless steel. 
  • Ideal for High Temperature Applications
    • Mineral Insulated heaters can withstand exposure temperatures up to 593°C (1100°F). Exposure temperatures can be increased to 750°C (1400°F) with special components. 
  • Ratings To 600V
    • Mineral Insulated heaters are available in a variety of voltages to match the available power supply. 
  • High Heat Output 
    • Mineral Insulated heaters have heat output ratings up to 10 times higher than most other cables, reducing the amount of cable required. 
  • Rugged Construction
    • A durable metal sheath provides greater mechanical protection.
  • Thin Wall Construction
    • A unique manufacturing process allows thin wall cable construction for easier field installation. 
Tank Heating Panels
Heating Panel
Heating Panel

  • Low Cost Installation
    • Flexible silicone construction allows panel to conform to tank wall. No bonding or heat transfer aids are required. 
  • High Temperature 
    • Tank Heating Panels maintain temperatures up to 79°C (175°F) and can withstand exposure to 204°C (400°F).

How New Lead-Free Regulations Will Impact Your Selection Of Potable Water Valves

Potable Water Regulations
Bottom line: Get the lead out.
Recent legislation in several states has tightened regulation of lead content in the components of potable (drinkable) water treatment systems. Other states may well be considering similar moves. This pace of regulation seems unlikely to slacken.

This report examines the choices facing specifiers and purchasers of small solenoid valves for potable water systems. It weighs the advantage and disadvantages of brass, plastic, and stainless steel designs. Finally, it suggests the solutions that smart planners should consider for current and future use.

You can download the full report (courtesy of ASCO Valve) here, or you can view it below in the embedded viewer.

Increasing Safety in Chemical Waste Water Treatment Plant

Waste water treatment and location of the measurement
Waste water treatment and location of the measurement.
Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) is the preferred raw material for the most common plastic products of daily life. The PTA production process generates various waste water streams which are high in organic content.

Purification of Process Waste Water

In the waste water treatment plant, the water treatment starts with aeration. The last step is an anaerobic bio reactor where the treatment is done in a controlled atmosphere. Micro organisms purify the water and produce biogas. Biogas roughly consists of 60 % methane and 40 % Carbon dioxide. This biogas is compressed and used as a fuel to reduce the net energy supply.

Although production or intrusion of oxygen into the reactors or pipes is highly unlikely, safety systems are installed. In case air enters unexpectedly into the process this first may result in a non-supporting atmosphere for the microbes and in the worst case the gas mixture may lead to an explosion.

Safety Guaranteed Using Siemens LDS 6

To ensure that oxygen never exceeds the maximum accepted concentration, the customer chose an in-situ measurement with the Siemens Laser Diode Spectrometer LDS 6. LDS 6 performs a continuous monitoring of the oxygen concentration in the biogas produced.
Measurement path and the two LDS 6 sensor heads
Measurement path and the
two LDS 6 sensor heads.

The response of the system is in three levels:
  1. In case the oxygen level exceeds 5 % an alarm is triggered.
  2. The threshold of 7 % causes an automatic nitrogen injection and the closure of a valve preventing the gas mixture from entering into the compressor.
  3. When the limit of 9 % is exceeded, this automatically shuts down the compressor.
The in-situ measurement leads to a fast and reliable measurement.

The stability and availability of the LDS 6 system is ensured by the integrated reference cell which provides a lifetime calibration. To be absolutely on the safe side, the customer operates a weekly safety check which involves opening a valve that allows a controlled air intake into the LDS 6 sensor heads. As the sensor heads are physically separated from the process by process windows, no oxygen may enter into the process. The reaction of the system shows in any of these tests once more the reliability of the measurement method used.

For more information about this application, or for any analytical instrument requirement, contact Ives Equipment by calling (877) 768-1600 or visiting https://www.ivesequipment.com.

Reprinted with permission from Siemens Case Study.

Beverage Container Manufacturer Improves Production Inventory Control with Radar Level Transmitter

SITRANS LR560 Radar Level Transmitter
SITRANS LR560 Radar Level Transmitter
A company in the southeastern United States produces and supplies beverage containers to a large number of bottling plants. The company produces a wide size range of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles for both carbonated soft drinks and water. PET bottles are formed in a two-step process that includes both injection-molding and blow-molding equipment.

Challenge

The customer has a need to monitor the level in storage tanks containing crystallized PET plastic pellets used in the production of plastic soft drink bottles. The crystallized pellets range in density from 30 pounds per cubic feet to 56 pounds per cubic feet, and the tanks can be up to 60 feet in height.

The level measurement is used for inventory control, and it is important to maintain material supply during production periods. Production needs to know if they will need to switch tanks if the inventory is running low.

The customer had been using a plumb-bob for the level measurements and had also tried ultrasonic level measurement instruments, from a different vendor, in the past. The plumb bob cable became a mechanical nuisance, and because of high dust levels, the customer had experienced periodic loss of echo using the ultrasonic level devices.

Solution

The local Siemens representative convinced the customer to install a trial unit of the SITRANS LR560 radar level transmitter. The LR560 transmitter provided a continuous, repeatable and low-maintenance level measurement solution. The SITRANS LR560 unit’s plug and play performance is ideal for most solids level measuring applications, including those with extreme dust and high temperatures.

Its unique design allows safe and simple programming using the intrinsically-safe handheld programmer without having to open the instrument’s lid.

Results

The customer tested the trial unit for almost a year, and because of their confidence in the reliability of the level measurements, the customer placed an order for an additional 9 instruments for use in their storage silos.

Benefits

Time savings: No maintenance required. Because the SITRANS LR560 radar transmitter is a non-contacting instrument, the risk of product contamination is eliminated and no extended delays are caused as when plumb-bob cables get caught or broken.

Improved process reliability: Continuous level measurement is a real time indicator of how much is in the silo. A plumb-bob cable getting stuck at a certain distance can lead to misinterpretation of the actual level. After the cable gets stuck, there is no level history prior to the last request on demand from the instrument.

Easier to use: The SITRANS LR560 transmitter was set up using the quick start wizard and no further tuning or maintenance is required.

Unique product features: The local user interface allows for ease of con-figuration and set-up. Since the customer is only using the removable, local display during setup, the custom-er can save money by moving the display from unit to unit as needed. The narrow, 4-degree beam angle enables reliable depth penetration into the silo and ignores potential silo wall interference.

About the SITRANS LR560 Radar Level Transmitter The SITRANS LR560 2-wire, 78 GHz FMCW radar level transmitter is used for continuous monitoring of solids in silos to a range of 100 meters or 328 feet. Its plug and play performance is ideal for most solids applications, including those with extreme dust and high temperatures to +392ºF. Its unique design provides safe and simple programming using the intrinsically-safe handheld programmer without having to open the instru-ment’s lid.

The SITRANS LR560 transmitter includes an optional graphical local display interface (LDI) that improves setup and operation using an intuitive Quick Start Wizard, and echo profile display for diagnostic support. Startup is easy using the Quick Start wizard with a few parameters required for basic operation. The SITRANS LR560 instrument measures virtually any solids material level up to a range of 328 feet.

To discuss this, or any process instrument application, contact Ives Equipment by calling (877) 768-1600 or visit https://www.ivesequipment.com.

Vector System Image Processor for Water in Hydrocarbons and Particles in Hydrocarbons

Canty Process Technology specializes in many refinery applications. Some applications include oil in water / water in oil, hydrogen reformer cameras, and desalter monitors. The CANTY Inflow™ is a vision-based camera system used with the CANTY Vector System image processor for water in hydrocarbons and particles in hydrocarbons in a lab environment / at-line / in-line process. The presence of these two physical contaminants is a problem for equipment the hydrocarbon is entering.

The CantyVision™ Software accurately measures multiple aspects of the hydrocarbons from water / solids / gas independent of each other for accurate data. In comparison to a laser and capacitance, which measures only one dimension and can’t identify the difference of water and solids in the stream. The CantyVision™ software can identify the differences. The customer can also visually verify the readings. 

Hydrocarbon contamination takes place mainly in production and transportation. CANTY objectively takes the measurement and reports based on a two dimensional image. Solids & water are all measured and continuously and objectively monitored. By knowing whether there is a water or solids problem this helps the operators identify how to fix the problem. The Inflow™ is an in-line analysis system to make sure production samples are not skipped over.

A brochure for the Canty Inflow™ can be downloaded here.

United Electric Controls Product Catalog

UE Champion Distributor
Ives Equipment is a
UE Champion Distributor
United Electric Controls has a rich history of over 80 years in providing protection for plant assets, people and the environment. Their pressure and temperature instrumentation is designed specifically to meet the rigors of harsh and hazardous alarm and emergency shutdown applications and includes certified safety transmitters per IEC 61508. UE, and Ives Equipment, serves the Chemical & Petrochemical, Power, Water & Wastewater and Oil & Gas industries, as well as many other challenging OEM applications.

You can download a PDF of the UE product catalog here, or view it online below.

Siemens Ultrasonic Level - How it Works

Ultrasonic level measurement
Ultrasonic level measurement is a highly cost-effective solution for short- and long-range measurement, even under difficult environmental conditions such as vibrations and dust. Ultrasonic level measurement is a non-contacting technology used in numerous industrial areas to monitor and control the level of liquids, slurries and solids.

Watch the video below for a better understanding of how this technology works.



For more information on Siemens ultrasonic level measurement, contact Ives Equipment by calling (877) 768-1600 or visiting http://www.ivesequipment.com.

The Role of a Sensor, Logic Solver and Final Element in a SIS (Safety Instrumented System)

One Series safety Transmitter
UE One Series Safety Transmitter
IEC 61511 is a technical standard which establishes practices that ensure the safety of industrial processes through the use of instrumentation. Such systems are referred to as Safety Instrumented Systems. The title of IEC 61511 is "Functional safety - Safety instrumented systems for the process industry sector".

Traditional safety systems that follow the IEC 61511 standard consists of three major components: a sensor, or a transmitter; a logic solver, or a safety PLC; and the final element, which is often a pilot valve.

Many major manufacturers provide process transmitters with safety integrity level third-party certifications to provide the industry standard for 4-20 milliamp output. This analog signal retransmits the process variable to the safety PLC for analysis where algorithms test to see if the process is within safe operating parameters. If abnormal conditions are determined to exist, an alarm may be sounded and if dangerous conditions are confirmed, an emergency shutdown sequence may be initiated.

Further exploring the roles of each of these safety system components, all three must work together flawlessly in order to bring the plan to a safe state, or allow the process to continue and run in a safe manner. Reliability of each component becomes paramount to the proper operation of the safety instrumented function, or SIP, and therefore the safe operation in the plant.

For example, the central component must continuously monitor the process variable and provide this information to the safety PLC via a hardwired connection. What actually occurs however, is the analog signal from the sensor transducer is converted to the digital domain for processing. Digital signal processing occurs inside the transmitters electronics to adjust the signal for ambient and process temperature conditions, sensor response errors, signal filtering, user settings, sensor calibration, and the process variable display. The resulting conditioned and process signals converted back to the analog domain to retransmit the 4 to 20 milliamp signal over the hardwired connection to the safety PLC. The PLC must now determine if the analog signal reveals a dangerous condition by comparing the level of the analog signal with pre-programmed set points. Here is what actually occurs. The retransmitted analog 4-20 mA signal must be converted back to the digital domain for processing inside the safety PLC's electronics. The level of the signal is compared to a pre-programmed threshold that is set at the limit of safe operation. If the signal level is determined to be within the safe limits of operation, a relay inside the safety PLC will remain closed. If the signal level is determined to be outside in the safe operating limits of the process, the safety relay will open. The safety relay state - is it open or is it closed - will determine what action the final element will take via a hardwired connection.

The final element must now take action to perform the safety function. An example of a final element is a steam cut-off valve to a turbine generator. The valve, or the final element, can quickly close to cut off the steam that passes through the generator's rotor in order to stop the rotation. Here is what actually happens. A pilot valve is connected to the plant air supply. The pilot valve is actuated by energizing 120VAC solenoid coil. When the coil is energized, the valve is held open, allowing plant air to enter the pneumatic actuator for the steam valve. Air pressure is used to hold the steam valve open allowing steam to enter, and cause the turbine generator to rotate. If the signal from the safety PLC opens to de-energize the pilot valve coil, the pilot valve will close, cutting off the air supply to the steam valve, which will cause the steam valve to close. This is an example of a de-energized to trip (or DTT) safety function.

As you can see there are a lot of components that must operate as designed to shut down the turbine generator in the event that an abnormal condition exists. Examples of abnormal conditions may include low lubrication oil pressure, high lubrication oil temperature, steam pressure that's too high, inadequate plant air pressure, etc. In order to decrease the safety instrumented functions probability to fail on-demand, all of the functions described here must work flawlessly.

Basics of Continuous Level Measurement

Continuous Level Measurement
Many industrial processes require the accurate measurement of fluid or solid (powder, granule, etc.) height within a vessel. Some process vessels hold a stratified combination of fluids, naturally separated into different layers by virtue of differing densities, where the height of the interface point between liquid layers is of interest.

A wide variety of technologies exist to measure the level of substances in a vessel, each exploiting a different principle of physics. This chapter explores the major level-measurement technologies in current use.

Level gauges (sightglasses)
Siteglass
Siteglass


Level gauges are perhaps the simplest indicating instrument for liquid level in a vessel. They are often found in industrial level-measurement applications, even when another level-measuring instrument is present, to serve as a direct indicator for an operator to monitor in case there is doubt about the accuracy of the other instrument.

Float

Perhaps the simplest form of solid or liquid level measurement is with a float: a device that rides on the surface of the fluid or solid within the storage vessel. The float itself must be of substantially lesser density than the substance of interest, and it must not corrode or otherwise react with the substance.

Hydrostatic pressure

A vertical column of fluid generates a pressure at the bottom of the column owing to the action of gravity on that fluid. The greater the vertical height of the fluid, the greater the pressure, all other factors being equal. This principle allows us to infer the level (height) of liquid in a vessel by pressure measurement.

Displacement

Displacer level instruments exploit Archimedes’ Principle to detect liquid level by continuously measuring the weight of an object (called the displacer) immersed in the process liquid. As liquid level increases, the displacer experiences a greater buoyant force, making it appear lighter to the sensing instrument, which interprets the loss of weight as an increase in level and transmits a proportional output signal.

Echo

Echo level (radar)
Echo level (radar)
A completely different way of measuring liquid level in vessels is to bounce a traveling wave off the surface of the liquid – typically from a location at the top of the vessel – using the time-of-flight for the waves as an indicator of distance, and therefore an indicator of liquid height inside the vessel. Echo-based level instruments enjoy the distinct advantage of immunity to changes in liquid density, a factor crucial to the accurate calibration of hydrostatic and displacement level instruments. In this regard, they are quite comparable with float-based level measurement systems. Liquid-liquid interfaces may also be measured with some types of echo-based level instruments, most commonly guided-wave radar. The single most important factor to the accuracy of any echo-based level instrument is the speed at which the wave travels en route to the liquid surface and back. This wave propagation speed is as fundamental to the accuracy of an echo instrument as liquid density is to the accuracy of a hydrostatic or displacer instrument.

Weight

Weight level
Weight level measurement
Weight-based level instruments sense process level in a vessel by directly measuring the weight of the vessel. If the vessel’s empty weight (tare weight) is known, process weight becomes a simple calculation of total weight minus tare weight. Obviously, weight-based level sensors can measure both liquid and solid materials, and they have the benefit of providing inherently linear mass storage measurement. Load cells (strain gauges bonded to a steel element of precisely known modulus) are typically the primary sensing element of choice for detecting vessel weight. As the vessel’s weight changes, the load cells compress or relax on a microscopic scale, causing the strain gauges inside to change resistance. These small changes in electrical resistance become a direct indication of vessel weight.

Capacitive

Capacitive level
Capacitive level measurement
Capacitive level instruments measure electrical capacitance of a conductive rod inserted vertically
into a process vessel. As process level increases, capacitance increases between the rod and the vessel walls, causing the instrument to output a greater signal. Capacitive level probes come in two basic varieties: one for conductive liquids and one for non- conductive liquids. If the liquid in the vessel is conductive, it cannot be used as the dielectric (insulating) medium of a capacitor. Consequently, capacitive level probes designed for conductive liquids are coated with plastic or some other dielectric substance, so the metal probe forms one plate of the capacitor and the conductive liquid forms the other.

Radiation

Certain types of nuclear radiation easily penetrates the walls of industrial vessels, but is attenuated by traveling through the bulk of material stored within those vessels. By placing a radioactive source on one side of the vessel and measuring the radiation reaching the other side of the vessel, an approximate indication of level within that vessel may be obtained. Other types of radiation are scattered by process material in vessels, which means the level of process material may be sensed by sending radiation into the vessel through one wall and measuring back-scattered radiation returning through the same wall.

To download an excellent continuous level selection guide follow this link.





Content above abstracted from “Lessons In Industrial Instrumentation”
by Tony R. Kupholdt under the terms and conditions of the
Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Public License.