Share this Image On Your Site
If you are reading this on any other blog than Flowmetrics it is stolen content. Follow us on Twitter@Flow_metrics. Come and visit our blog at https://flowmetrics.com/blog/.
Author: Vitalii Prokopiv
Eccentric Disc Pumps for Chemical Applications
Eccentric disc pumps work to pump liquids by spinning an off-center disc inside of a pump housing. As the disc spins around inside the housing two low pressure and two high pressure zones are formed. These opposite high and low pressure zones move fluid through the pump. Because the volumes of these pressure zones is known, a constant, regular, measured flow rate can be achieved by varying the speed of the pumps spinning. This consistent flow is necessary for accurate chemical processing or distributors.
Because eccentric disc pumps are by design seal-less, fluids that would react with or corrode common seal materials are able to be pumped through a processing line. By protecting against unintended reactions valuable chemical materials are preserved saving the processing facility in materials costs.
Click here for the full article by Mike Solso.
What to Know About Your Flow Computer
Flow meters today are designed to function with flow computers. An efficient and sophisticated piece of equipment, the flow computer is able to receive and interpret signals from digital and analog instruments such as flow meters, temperature and pressure gauges, flow control valves, samples and liquid provers. The computer makes a complete record of all data received, along with any changes to parameters.
Diverse Uses
In order to fulfill its intended function, a flow computer must be highly precise and able to monitor and record measurements in extremely small increments. Another universally necessary characteristic is durability. These devices are in use across a variety of industries, where they are frequently employed in an environment with varying temperatures and may come into contact with damaging gases or liquids. In order to ensure that measurements and records remain reliable and accurate, it is important to ascertain that your flow computer’s casing and components are designed to perform in the environment you need.
Flow computer are used in many diverse industries today in order to obtain precise measurements and analyses of products. These devices are sometimes referred to as cash registers, due to being widely used to monitor custody and transfer of substances such as natural gas and oil. Computers are also used to monitor and record steam, liquids and gases by food and drink manufacturers, water companies, plants that mine and process metals and minerals, chemical factories, pulp and paper companies and power stations.
Precise Function
Flow computers are used to monitor the flow of gases and liquids in many types of industries, from petrochemicals to food manufacture. In order to obtain optimal results, it is best to choose a computer that is most suited for your purposes. Today, there are many types of computers available with a wide range of attributes and options. It is important to select the one that performs the full range of measurements you need without being cluttered with unnecessary functions. For example, some flow computers also perform chemical analyses and gas density calculations. Other functions may include:
- Environmental compliance monitoring;
- Remote metering capacity;
- Heat flow equations.
Most flow computers need some additional configuration and calibration in order to perform most accurately. Look for models that are easy and intuitive to set up; an overly complicated system is more likely to cause setup errors and ultimately cause inaccurate reporting from your computer.
Maintenance and Inspection
To remain at the peak of their function, computers should be inspected regularly. Scheduled inspection and maintenance is a good way to assure that you are getting the precise measurements you need, along with a comprehensive record. If your flow computer was installed many years ago, some of its components may be obsolete and no longer available on the market; support from the manufacturer may be very limited or entirely non-existent. With new advances in digital technology being made continually, computer manufacturers are able to offer ever-increasing precision in measurement. Updated proprietary metal alloys are also available for durable and secure casing.
The flow computer is an essential part of many types of industries. Manufacturers rely on it for accurate measurement and analysis of work product. Keep your in good order with regular inspections and updates when necessary.
If you are reading this on any other blog than Flowmetrics it is stolen content. Follow us on Twitter@Flow_metrics. Come and visit our blog at https://flowmetrics.com/blog/.
Oil Producers Explore Crackers
From the installation near Monaca, Pa liquefied natural gas will be exported to consumers, and industry leaders expect growth in liquefied natural gas demand to remain. Ethane crackers utilize high heat, catalysts, and solvents to break the molecules of larger ethane into ethylene.
As supply of crude oil deposits dwindle, more energy producers are focusing on liquid natural gas for itsportability. Once cooled below its vapor point, natural gas compresses 600 times which makes it easier to transport and ship to other regions including international destinations.
Recently, the U.S. Energy Information Administration projected domestic ethane production to grow from 1.1 million barrels per day in 2015 to 1.4 million barrels each day in 2017, an increase of 300,000 barrels daily.
Click here for the full article by Casey Junkins.
Vent Guard Protects Flow Level Indicators
Liquid level gauges report the amount of flow through a pipeline, or the amount of liquid in a container. To accomplish this goal the gauge needs to be vented regularly, and often enough this venting is to the atmosphere. To protect gauges, and the liquid inside of the container, from dust and debris in the air a gravity vent guard is installed.
The simplest level indicator gauge for liquid reservoirs is attached to the container and fills to the same level as the container, but must be subjected to the same pressure as the container to work. Because most reservoirs are not held at pressure or vacuum, both the gauge and container are vented to the atmosphere to equalize the pressure. The problem with venting is that it leaves the liquids open to contamination.
The gravity vent guard was first utilized in a coal burning power plant to prevent fine coal dust suspended in the air from entering the gauge.
Click here for the full article from Industrial Equipment News.
Flow Control Through Smart Components
Hydraulic-power units in Colorado’s Carter Lake are being fit with smart systems to optimize the flow rate of water through the dam. Through the use of PID controllers, position feedback devices, and backup manual valves installed in parallel Carter Lake Hydroelectric maintains the flow of water through its wicket gates in turn regulating the generation of electricity from the flowing water.
The entire hydaulic system is designed for long term use with little maintenance. Redundant oil filters maintain internal hydraulic components, fluid check valves prevent counter-flow from harming sensitive pressure sensors and flow meters.
Click here for the full article by Leah Scully.
Choose a Flow Meter That Is Right for You
Not everyone has the mechanical knowledge necessary to find the variable area flow meter that they need. There are several common types that satisfy the needs of the majority of people: in-line, single flow and multi-stage flow, all with unique characteristics that make them function differently. Educate yourself on the technicalities of your problem and the flow meter that you want so that repairs and constructions can be easier.
In-Line Flow Meters
An in-line meter is a high-pressure machine installed on horizontal and vertical pipe lines. It typically measures water, oil, hydraulic fluids, acids, glycerin, naptha and cotton seed oil. It is used for residential or commercial purposes. Quality in-line meters typically resist shocks and vibrations and have alarms that can alert people when the pressure is too high or low.
Make sure to select a product with the correct gallons per minute (GPM) capability, seal, fitting and size measurements. Anything from stainless steel with a Teflon seal to aluminum with Viton is available.
Single Flow Meters
Single flow meters offer a little more sophistication than in-line models. Many have a custom scale attached that allows for direct reading of measurements. They are used in any different industries, including aerospace, military, chemical, pharmaceutical and energy, for applications such as foam production and bench testing.
Take the time to decide on a proper precision accuracy rate, flow and pressure rates and temperature requirement to eliminate unnecessary features and save money. Many of these flow meters last a good 15 to 20 years, and more efficient models are always being developed. It is worth the time to speak to a professional who can give you valuable advice and information about the latest models.
Multi-Stage Flow Meters
Multi-stage meters have pressure reduction capabilities for temperature control and an internal filter. If needed, a sensitive valve provides highly accurate readings. Since multi-stage products typically have anywhere between two and four tubes, there are many customization options available for interstage piping and valving, and end fittings.
To protect yourself against future malfunctions, search for products that have a warranty; you might find a quality product that is guaranteed up to one year. Finding the right multi-stage meter can increase your machines’ productivity and efficiency, saving you time and money. Every industry is different; purchasing the right product can have big payoffs for companies heavily dependent on mechanical liquid flow, such aviation manufacturers or laboratory facilities.
Installing Your Flow Meter
Once you purchase an appropriate model, it is time to install it on your machine. Many figure out how to do it themselves, but to ensure that your meter is functioning properly it never hurts to turn to an expert. Many companies have professionals that provide installation and calibration service that you can take advantage of to make sure your meter is tweaked precisely so you can receive optimal benefits.
With a little research, you can decide which flow meter is truly right for your needs. A reputable company that has been in business for a long time and has strict testing standards for its products is your best bet for answers if you have any questions.
If you are reading this on any other blog than Flowmetrics it is stolen content. Follow us on Twitter@Flow_metrics. Come and visit our blog at https://flowmetrics.com/blog/.
Extracting Uranium from Seawater
It is estimated that the oceans hold 4 billion tons of uranium. This amount of uranium would be enough to power the world’s major cities for thousands of years, the trouble is getting it out of the water. Scientists have shown progress on using a material that binds to uranium dioxide in seawater and can later be treated to remove the uranium. This process would entail dragging braided polyethylene fibers coated with amidoxime through the oceans.
The process is still inefficient and expensive, but finding alternatives to uranium ore mining is a necessary step in planning for the future of nuclear energy.
Uranium is only found in seawater at a concentration of 3.3 micrograms per liter, that converts to 1 particle of Uranium to every 3,000,000,000,000,000 particles of the remainder of seawater. The material is inefficient in that only 6 grams of Uranium is adsorbed for every kilogram of the material, or an efficiency of .6% after 8 weeks of collection.
If constant extraction via this method were to be enacted a fleet would need roughly 693,000 kilograms of the material being dragged at all times, just to fuel a single Gigawatt nuclear power plant for the same duration.
Click here for the full article by Jennifer Hackett.
Reality is Biggest Innovation Challenge
In 2013 right before the final switch was thrown on a huge energy demonstration there were a lot of observers with crossed fingers. Despite all the effort and research by engineers in creating the demo, the true test of the system would be the first startup.
“Just because something should work, technically, is no promise it’ll work. We had the necessary systems and engineering skills and experience, but making it real was the challenge.” -John Stampfel, VP & GM of Electrical Engineering Services & Systems
Click here for the full article and details by Jonathan Salem Baskin.
Next Generation Advanced Process Control
Manufacturers are increasingly demanding advanced process control, APC, on more units and utilized by more controllers. APC has even been utilized in utility and steam systems.
APC has traditionally been the province of dedicated specialists with years of training and experience. “Building, deploying and maintaining a system used to require on-site expertise, using multiple sets of tools for each controller.” -Elinor Price from Aspen Technology
APC programs eliminate the need to transition between multiple applications, to consolidate and preserve process knowledge. These more efficient operations allow better cooperation between process engineers and control engineers. By tracking and storing all of these data points from multiple different stations newly hired engineers can troubleshoot issues that crop up during procedures.
Click here for the full article on Control Global.