Equipment/Software/Literature

Sept. 11, 2000
PetroDesk version 2000.1, an engineering integration mapping software application, is designed to browse, visualize, report, and analyze oil and gas data.

Data integration, mapping analysis software

This latest version has enhanced data retrieval by connecting to several new data vendors. In addition to public Canadian data, users can now access US production and well data from multiple vendors, including Petroleum Data Source, WhiteStar, IHS Energy, and PennPoint. The company is also offering US production history and grid-culture data bundled together with PetroDesk and Peep, which is an upstream economic evaluation software. This new petroleum desktop data package allows users to query their data in PetroDesk and then perform further economic and decline analysis in Peep.

PetroDesk's application integration capabilities have been upgraded, theh company points out. PetroDesk now automatically exports selected map or list objects to third-party applications in the required format. These data are then automatically retrieved and displayed by that application.

Additional updates to PetroDesk version 2000.1 include:

  • Ability to import ESRI-format shape files.
  • New user-defined mapping options that allow grids and coordinates to be displayed on the map using a variety of survey and coordinate systems.
  • Predefined and user-defined reports that are HTML enabled, which allow them to be saved for external viewing on an internet browser or distributed by e-mail to other people in the organization who do not have access to PetroDesk.
  • Improved query functions that can now be restricted to user selected parameters such as region layer, land list, or map extent.

Source: Merak Div., GeoQuest, 2121 Sage Rd., Suite 230, Houston, TX 77056.

On-line analyzer for refinery uses

Click here to enlarge image

A new generation of on-line cloud, pour, and freezing point analyzers does not require any liquid coolant. Its new cooling system uses air in lieu of water as a medium for removing heat from the thermoelectric cooler. Distillate and lubricant samples can be cooled to -40° C. using this method. All practical measurements of cloud and pour points can be achieved with no need for external refrigeration, liquid coolant, and water pipes altogether.

This new design does not require any extra consumption of air beyond what is normally used for purging the enclosure. Air cooling obviates the need for a cryogenic unit. These new analyzers yield precise results quickly and conveniently, the company says. For sample temperatures lower than -40° C., the use of plant water is still recommended to increase cooling efficiency.

The analyzer is suited for a range of refinery applications. Uses include:

  • Freezing point for jet fuels.
  • Cloud and pour points for diesels and base oils.
  • Pour points for lubricants.

The system requires little maintenance and no calibration. The self-contained analyzer is integrated with the patented Aquanot sample conditioning unit and a sample recovery unit suited for operation in hazardous areas.

The analyzer is easy and quick to install. Commissioning, including operator training, typically requires fewer than 5 working days, the firm notes. The analyzer's smart modular design, which allows convenient extraction and insertion of each module, helps ensure high on-stream time. A built-in modem is

also provided, enabling remote monitoring through a telephone link. With this feature, factory personnel or refinery technicians can access the analyzer using a computer from any location worldwide that has a standard telephone line, and obtain full performance and diagnostic information.

Source: Phase Technology, 11168 Hammersmith Gate, Richmond, BC V7A 5H8.

New refinery conductivity sensor

The new corrosion-resistant 5000TC Series toroidal (electrodeless) conductivity sensor is specifically designed to monitor conductivity, chemical concentration, or salinity in refinery applications where coating, fouling, corrosion, or high temperatures and pressures are encountered.

The sensor's 11/2 in. diameter bore reduces rough surfaces to help ensure that flow impedance is minimized. A 1,000-ohm platinum RTD promises accurate temperature measurement for proper temperature compensation.

The convertible style sensor includes a 3/4 in. and 1/2 in. fitting to allow direct fastening to pipe ends.

A variety of construction materials is available, including PEEK, PFA Teflon, PVDF, and polypropylene. Mounting types-immersion, union-mounted, and insertion/removal-help allow installation flexibility. Operating temperature range is 10-125° C. (14-257° F.).

All 5000TC cells work with the company's APT2000 Series toroidal conductivity process transmitter.

Source: Honeywell Sensing & Control, 11 W. Spring St., Freeport, IL 61032.