Storing Raw and Finished Products
In crude oil processing, the storage of raw and finished products is an important factor for smooth, continuous production. Crude oil is delivered via ship or pipeline and stored in large tanks for later processing. The products of distillation are stored and held ready for shipment in tanks of varying dimensions. Measurement here requires very high accuracy.
In the past, mainly calibration-ready measuring devices were implemented for level measurement. For small and mid-sized tanks, the present trend is to avoid such expensive, high maintenance measuring systems, because products are now usually measured by calibration-ready flow meters while being moved.
Simple Non-Contact Measurement with the VEGAPULS 62
The VEGAPULS 62 radar sensor is suitable for level measurement especially in small and mid-size refinery vessels. Being small and light, the sensor can be mounted without difficulty in an existing mounting boss, or integrated into a manhole.
With an accuracy of 3 mm, the sensor is ideal for tank inventory management and can easily be coupled with superordinate systems. The sensors are available in Ex ia and Ex d versions. Through the use of a temperature adapter, process temperatures up to 392°F (200°C) can be used, which enables measurement of highly viscous distillation products such as lubricating oil or bitumen.
VEGAFLEX 61 – Using Existing Standpipes with New Technology
Until now, mechanical measuring systems such as float gauges or displacers were often implemented. To guarantee precise measuring results, such devices are used mainly in standpipes. Due to the large equalization holes in the pipes, it is often impossible to replace existing systems with free radiating radar sensors – the holes cause interfering reflections. This is a situation in which the guided wave radar provides a simple, reliable solution for level measurement. When the sensor is mounted in the center of the existing standpipe, a coaxial measuring system with optimal signal transmission is created. The result is high accuracy and dependability, without large expenditures for installation and setup.
Reliable Overfill Protection – VEGASWING 63
In principle, a continuous measuring system, such as radar, can be implemented for overfill protection. However, as a completely different measuring principle, the VEGASWING 63 vibrating level switch provides additional safety. Independent of product characteristics, the sensor reliably detects the threshold level and thus ensures a high degree of plant safety. The annual instrument check is carried out quickly and reliably with a simple push of a button on the instrument.
