The overflash volume in atmospheric distillation is an important indicator for effective and well balanced operation of the distillation column. A precise measurement of this quantity poses a special challenge.

Driven only by gravity, the medium moves at very low flow velocities of around 0,15 m/s, with a maximum flow rate of 10 tons/hr. Therefore, in order to reach a reasonable accuracy, the previously installed orifice plates had very small diameters. This resulted in a high pressure loss which could almost not be overcome by the hydrostatic conditions.

Another challenge for the measuring system was the high medium temperature of around 380 °C. After successful testing, a flow measuring system using FLEXIM's WaveInjector was installed at the measuring point, which is located in an ATEX 1 explosion hazard zone. The installation was completed without any modification to the existing system.

The higher accuracy of the overflash measurement now allows a drastic improvement in process efficiency. The investment costs were quickly paid for by the higher yield.

Your Benefits:

Measurement without any pressure losses

Reliable measurement even at very low flow velocities

Process optimization

Easy upgrading without intrusion into the pipe system

Highly improved accuracy in comparison to conventional orifice meters