Interface measurements in desalters are often regarded as non-critical, even though every drop of oil to be refined passes through the desalter. As refineries try to maximise their margins, so-called opportunity crudes are often used. These generally contain increased levels of sulphur, oil sands, bitumen, heavy oils and oils with high TAN. This can lead to problems with the proper operation of the desalter. In addition, refineries are increasingly confronted with stricter environmental regulations. The efficient level control of water/emulsions/oil layers in the desalter ensures that salts and minerals are effectively removed and that environmental requirements are met. Therefore, more and more operators are turning to radiometry as a highly reliable and accurate measurement solution for this application.
If a clearly defined interface is formed, different technologies can be used for interface measurement. If a larger emulsion layer is formed, for example, when using opportunity crudes with a significant density gradient change from oil to water, the measurement with alternative technologies can lead to errors. These cannot determine the height of the emulsion layer and always assume only one separation layer (or interface). This can lead to misinterpretations with the level read as either too high or too low.
EmulsionSENS from Berthold – optimum control of the desalting process
In addition to controlling water and brine levels, the EmulsionSENS interface measuring system from Berthold Technologies allows users to monitor the gradient change in density to ensure that the water content in the area of the electrostatic grids stays within defined limits, preventing short circuits. In addition, the emulsion layer can be kept continuously at the desired level with the help of an EmulsionSENS, which leads to a significant reduction of the ‘emulsion breaker chemicals’.
Thus the probability of upsets is reduced and throughput in the desalter is maximised, which saves energy and money in the long term through highest degrees of accuracy and process stability.
Cloud-based inventory management software Endress+Hauser South Africa
Level Measurement & Control
Netilion is an award-winning cloud-based IIoT ecosystem designed for industrial processes. It connects the physical and digital worlds to send valuable information from the field straight to your phone, tablet or other device.
Read more...Mecosa training courses Mecosa
Training & Education Courses designed for Radiation Protection Officers
This seminar is designed to equip the participants with an understanding of radioactive sources, their application, safe use and what to do in the ...
Read more...Level sensing, conveyor control and grid resistors DRH Components
Editor's Choice Level Measurement & Control
DRH Components is a specialist electric component and systems supplier with a focus on the control of electric motors. As part of its wide variety of products, the company markets the entire Bindicator range. Bindicator manufactures sensors for dry bulk and liquid level measurement.
Read more...Safeguarding precision in industrial radiometric measurements Mecosa
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
In the complex landscape of industrial plant operations, precision is paramount, especially when it comes to weld inspections to test for structural integrity of pipes. Berthold has the ideal answer to this challenge – X-Ray Interference Protection.
Read more...Level measurement under extreme plant processing conditions VEGA Controls SA
Level Measurement & Control
Level measurement in LNG and LPG processes is about answering the simple question: “How much product is in the tank?” However, obtaining an exact value is not easy. The products are often under pressure, cryogenic, and highly explosive. Sensors from Vega have been operating successfully in all stages of the LNG/LPG process for many years.
Read more...Grounding of hydrostatic level sensors WIKA Instruments
Level Measurement & Control
Hydrostatic level sensors are very often installed in outdoor applications, primarily in the water and wastewater industries. A good connection to ground is essential when installing hydrostatic level sensors, since no grounding or poor grounding can result in destruction or damage to the level sensor.
Read more...Advanced leak testing techniques for fuel cell stacks Mecosa
Flow Measurement & Control
As the demand for sustainable mobility surges, the automotive industry is rapidly transitioning to electric- and hydrogen-powered vehicles. Among the promising options, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are gaining traction due to their eco-friendly nature.
Read more...VEGA expands radar portfolio for factory automation VEGA Controls SA
Editor's Choice Level Measurement & Control
VEGA is known worldwide for ensuring safe and stable processes with its level and pressure sensors, even under the most difficult conditions. The world market leader is now putting the finishing touches to its radar level portfolio, especially to meet the demands of fast processes in factory automation.
Read more...Factory automation made easy VEGA Controls SA
Level Measurement & Control
With the introduction of VEGAPULS 42, instrumentation specialist, VEGA is bringing its extensive experience with radar measurement technology to factory automation.
Read more...The ultimate outdoor sensing solution Turck Banner Southern Africa
Level Measurement & Control
Turck Banner’s T30R series has been expanded with a new long-range model. This sensor can accurately recognise and measure targets up to 25 m away, which is a 10 m increase over previous models.