Endress+hauser FLOWSIC900 ultrasonic flowmeter

Description

Endress+hauser FLOWSIC900 ultrasonic flowmeter

The Endress+Hauser FLOWSIC900 ultrasonic gas flowmeter is a testament to years of expertise in natural gas measurement, meticulously engineered to meet the unique demands of the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) industry. This advanced device delivers the critical custody transfer accuracy required for precise volume flow measurement, adhering to the most stringent metrological standards. As a cornerstone of Endress+Hauser’s high-end measurement solutions, it complements the proven FLOWSIC600-XT and FLOWSIC100 Flare-XT, collectively elevating measurement performance and reliability within LNG plants to an unprecedented level. Its design reflects a deep understanding of the complexities involved in LNG operations, ensuring that every measurement contributes to operational efficiency and financial accuracy. The FLOWSIC900 stands as a symbol of innovation, providing a robust and dependable solution for the exacting environment of LNG custody transfer, where precision is not just desired, but absolutely essential. It’s an investment in accuracy, designed to perform flawlessly under challenging conditions and provide peace of mind to operators.

2. Specialized Applications: LNG Industry’s Core Needs

The FLOWSIC900 is specifically designed to address the core measurement requirements of the burgeoning LNG industry. Its primary application lies in the crucial custody transfer measurement of LNG, a process vital for commercial transactions where accurate billing is paramount. Beyond this, its robust design and precise measurement capabilities make it ideal for both on- and offshore applications, adapting seamlessly to the diverse operational landscapes of LNG facilities. From the initial stages of liquefaction to the complexities of transport and storage of LNG, the FLOWSIC900 provides reliable and accurate data. These specialized applications underscore its importance in the entire LNG value chain, ensuring that every cubic meter of LNG is accounted for with unparalleled accuracy. The instrument is built to withstand the harsh conditions often found in these environments, maintaining its metrological integrity and operational performance over extended periods, thereby safeguarding financial interests and ensuring regulatory compliance across the globe.

3. Device Properties: Robust, Smart, and Highly Compliant

The FLOWSIC900 boasts a suite of impressive device properties that underscore its technological sophistication and reliability. It features intrinsically safe and reliable ultrasonic transducers, ensuring precise measurements even in hazardous environments. The device conforms meticulously to international standards such as OIML R117 Cl. 0.3 and API MPMS Ch. 5.8, highlighting its metrological excellence and suitability for global trade. Its capability for real-time measurement and diagnostics provides operators with immediate insights into gas flow and system health, fostering proactive maintenance. A significant design advantage is its full bore design without pressure drop or need for flow conditioner, which not only enhances measurement accuracy but also optimizes energy efficiency. Furthermore, it comes with factory thermal pre-insulation, simplifying installation and reducing on-site work. The Remote Signal Processing Unit (SPU) offers flexible operation and data access, reinforcing its intelligent design.

4. Benefits: Reduced Risks, Enhanced Efficiency, Savings

The FLOWSIC900 offers a compelling array of benefits that directly translate into operational and financial advantages for LNG facilities. A key benefit is the low measurement uncertainty directly at custody transfer point, which significantly reduces financial risks associated with LNG transactions, ensuring fair and accurate billing. It provides increased transparency during LNG transaction through dynamic and real-time measurement and diagnostics, fostering trust and accountability. Operational expenditure (OPEX) savings are realized through reduced boil-off gas losses and highly efficient LNG transfer, facilitated by its minimized pressure drop design. Furthermore, capital expenditure (CAPEX) savings are achieved through simplified meter integration and installation, thanks to its compact design and factory pre-insulation. Finally, easy and fast access during commissioning and regular checks with the remote SPU streamlines maintenance and operational oversight, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.

5. Measuring Principle: Advanced Ultrasonic Transit Time

At the heart of the FLOWSIC900’s exceptional performance is the sophisticated ultrasonic transit time difference measurement principle. This non-intrusive technology precisely measures the time difference it takes for ultrasonic signals to travel both with and against the direction of gas flow. By meticulously analyzing these minute time differences, the device accurately determines the velocity of the LNG. This velocity is then used to calculate the volumetric flow rate. This method is inherently robust, as it involves no moving parts, thereby eliminating wear and tear, reducing maintenance, and ensuring long-term measurement stability. The ultrasonic approach is particularly well-suited for LNG applications, offering high accuracy and reliability even under cryogenic conditions. It provides a clean, unobstructed flow path, contributing to the overall efficiency and safety of the measurement process, making it an ideal choice for critical custody transfer applications.

6. Measured Variables: Comprehensive LNG Flow Data

The FLOWSIC900 is engineered to provide a comprehensive suite of measured variables crucial for effective LNG management and accurate custody transfer. It precisely measures Volume a.c. (actual conditions) and volumetric flow a.c. (actual conditions), giving operators real-time data on the flow under current operating parameters. Additionally, it accurately determines fluid velocity and speed of sound, providing valuable diagnostic information about the LNG stream. The primary measuring medium for which the FLOWSIC900 is optimized is LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas). These detailed measurements enable operators to gain a thorough understanding of their process, optimize operations, and ensure that all contractual obligations are met with the highest degree of accuracy. The ability to capture such a wide range of parameters ensures that every aspect of the LNG flow is meticulously monitored, contributing to overall operational excellence and financial integrity.

7. Technical Specifications: Unyielding Performance Standards

The FLOWSIC900 is built to deliver unyielding performance under demanding conditions, backed by impressive technical specifications. It boasts an exceptional repeatability of ≤ ± 0.05 % of the measured value, ensuring consistent and reliable results over time. Its accuracy is equally remarkable, with typical error limits from Qmin to Qmax of ≤ ±0.2 % of reading, achieving this precision after dedicated flow calibration and adjustment. The device accommodates a wide operating pressure range of 0 bar (g) to 19 bar (g) (or 0 psi(g) to 275 psi(g)), suitable for various LNG process pressures. It supports a broad range of nominal pipe sizes from 8 ″ to 36 ″ (DN200 to DN900), compatible with Schedule 40S/STD according to ASME B36.19 / B36.10, with other sizes available upon request. Furthermore, it holds critical metrological approvals like OIML R117 Class 0.3 and adheres to explosion protection standards such as IECEx: IEC 60079 and cCSA/CSAus listings, ensuring safety in hazardous areas. Its digital outputs include 2 Digital output/Frequency output, with others available upon request, and robust digital communication via Modbus RS-485 (2x), Modbus RTU/ASCII, Bluetooth, and USB, offering versatile integration options.