The mobility revolution stands out as a key force behind climate protection efforts, with synthetic fuels derived from renewable energy sources emerging as a promising solution to reduce CO2 emissions. Synthetic fuels are created through chemical synthesis and represent a viable alternative to fossil fuels, particularly those derived from petroleum. One of their significant advantages is that they can be used in existing vehicles, allowing the replacement of conventional fuels and considerably cutting down on CO2 emissions.
To produce synthetic fuels, Ekobenz harnesses ethyl alcohol obtained from waste products, with a catalyst triggering the bio-hydrocarbon synthesis. This process generates bio-butane-propane (bio-LPG), liquid bio-hydrocarbons (bio-petrol), and aromatic bio-hydrocarbons. “To help reduce CO2 emissions, we’ve developed technologies that are unique worldwide,” explains Piotr Kobiec, head of production at Ekobenz. The company boasts a cutting-edge processing plant outfitted with innovative automation solutions and top-notch instrumentation technologies. A vital component of this plant is the VEGA sensors, which facilitate reliable monitoring of critical process parameters.
In a 3-phase separator, the VEGAFLEX 81 sensors, based on the guided wave radar principle, measure the hydrocarbon/water interface. The data they provide is essential for managing the amount of water pumped from the container to the wastewater treatment plant, thus preventing any unintended escape of hydrocarbons. Continuous level measurement within the column’s floors is also a necessity.
Stable monitoring of the medium’s level in the production process is crucial. This is achieved with multiple VEGAFLEX 86 radar sensors installed in a bypass tube, delivering precise measurements even under extreme pressure and temperature conditions.
VEGA’s measuring instruments are recognised across industries for their accuracy and maintenance-free operation. Before deploying VEGA sensors, Ekobenz utilised level transmitters with magnetic floats that underperformed due to complex operations, measurement inconsistencies and frequent cleaning requirements. VEGAFLEX sensors offer reliable measurements for nearly any liquid, even in challenging conditions such as buildup, steam and foam. These sensors can endure constant high temperatures, ranging from 140 to 280°C, and meet the company’s Ex certification requirements following ATEX standards.
What about the ease of use of these measuring instruments? ‘As simple as possible for the user’ is VEGA’s guiding principle, which Ekobenz highly values. The integration of the sensors was efficient and straightforward, thanks to PACTware software, which facilitated the configuration of the measuring instruments. PACTware enables swift adjustments to sensor parameters, carries out diagnostics, and produces documentation.
“User-friendly operation is important for us,” states Ekobenz operations manager, Piotr Kobiec, who expresses great satisfaction with the VEGA instruments. Another significant benefit is that the VEGA Data Viewer is included free of charge in their service package. Kobiec particularly appreciates the high measurement reliability of these nearly maintenance-free sensors. Furthermore, innovative solutions provide various methods to monitor the measured values remotely − whether from a computer tablet, or smartphone − making oversight more convenient than ever.
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