Density transmitter

Jan. 10, 2000
A new range of explosionproof digital insertion density transmitters offers cost savings to process engineers.
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A new range of explosionproof digital insertion density transmitters offers cost savings to process engineers. A number of density-derived values-for example, °API, percent solids, and °Brix-are continuously computed within the transmitter, eliminating the need for remote processing in a range of applications. Any computed value is available via the unit's industry-standard 4-20 ma output for controlling valves, mixers, and blenders, while Modbus communications facilitate integration into SCADA and DCS systems.

The new 7828 transmitter range includes versions suited for corrosive environments. Designed for liquids and slurries, the transmitters are self-contained and factory-calibrated and require no routine maintenance.

Data logging and on-line problem analysis of the 7828 are simplified by this firm's Windows-based Adview software. By connecting a portable PC to the unit's RS485 connection, an engineer can quickly check that the loop is functioning correctly or log data for later analysis, making Adview suited for diagnosing problems in wide area installations such as pipelines and tank farms.

Source: Solartron Ltd., Victoria Rd., Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 7PW, UK.

New flame detector

The new SearchFlame 22 multispectral flame detector is designed to detect hydrocarbon-based fires.

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The unit combines current infrared-wide, near, and narrow-band technology with an additional visible radiation detector that allows the unit to analyze emissions.

On alarm, the detector is also able to store all of the prefire spectral data from the sensor array in a nonvolatile memory for subsequent retrieval and evaluation.

The detector has relay, analog, and RS485 digital outputs as standard and is available in 316 stainless steel or a copper-free aluminum version. The unit is fully certified for us in hazardous areas.

Operating voltage is 24 v dc, and quiescent power consumption is 60 ma. The detector can operate in temperatures of -40° to +85° C. and within a relative humidity band of 10-90%. IP 66 ingress protection is standard. A field of view of 100° horizontal by 100° vertical at 75% of the on-axis detection distance is provided, and sensitivity settings can be set at 25, 50, 100, or 200 ft.

Source: Zellweger Analytics Ltd., Hatch Pond House, 4 Stinsford Rd., Nuffield Estate, Poole, Dorset BH17 ORZ, UK.

Positioning service overcomes ionospheric disturbance

SkyFix Premier, a dual frequency precise positioning service, helps mitigate the effects of ionospheric disturbances on differential global positioning system performance.

Ionospheric disturbances have been brought about by the increasing high sunspot activity as it approaches the peak of an 11-year solar cycle in 2001.

SkyFix Premier offers advanced real-time modeling by observing the ionospheric corrections at selected SkyFix reference stations in the affected area, using dual frequency GPS receivers, and broadcasting these to the user with the standard radio transmission committee maritime correction message service.

The service has been developed to meet the full range of positioning requirements of the offshore operator who demands a system of integrity.

Source: Racal Survey Ltd., Compass House, Davis Rd., Chessington, Surrey KT9 ITB, UK.

Subsea control fluid

Aqualink HT804, a water-based hydraulic control fluid, is specially formulated for operation of underwater oil and gas production wells.

The fluid offers a high degree of compatibility with completion fluids such as calcium bromide, calcium chloride, and zinc bromide. In addition, it maintains thermal stability at 160° C. These features help ensure a capability to remain stable even when subjected to high operating temperatures and contamination of the systems by substances ingressing from the wellbore.

The fluid also helps protect against seawater corrosion of ferrous materials at contamination levels as high as 20%. It also helps ensure pumpability through small-bore tubes, providing reliability and reducing pressure loss, even when contaminated with completion fluids, the company says.

Source: Houghton International Inc., Box 930, Valley Forge, PA 19482-0930.