Distillation of Crude Oil
Typical of the processing facilities of a refinery are the distillation columns in which crude oil is decomposed into individual distillation products. The previously desalinated crude oil is heated up to 662°F (350°C) and fed into the distillation columns. The various fractionated products are generated from the crude oil through multiple stages and different distillation methods. Beside temperature measurement, which serves as the most important control variable for regulating distillation, pressure monitoring in the column and level measurement in the extraction vessels are of great significance.
Non-contact, Maintenance-Free Level Measurement with the VEGAPULS 66
In the past, level measurement in distillation columns was mainly accomplished with displacers. However, displacers require large expenditures for maintenance. Modern radar sensors, like the VEGAPULS 66, with ceramic materials implemented in their antenna system, are well adapted to the extreme conditions in the distillation column. The sensors can be mounted on existing reference vessels and used in temperatures up to 752°F (400°C). Especially for the measurement of the built-up residue, non-contact measurement with radar has a considerable advantage over displacers.
For temperatures up to 302°F (150°C), the VEGAPULS 63 is the ideal solution. Thanks to the encapsulated antenna system, the sensor itself stays completely outside the measuring environment.
Column Pressure with the VEGABAR 61
An important value to monitor in the distillation process is the top pressure at the upper end of the column. Depending on the type of distillation, the systems operate under vacuum or extremely high pressures. The VEGABAR 61 pressure transmitter with its wide temperature range is particularly suited for this application – even extreme temperature fluctuations during the start-up phase in the column do not affect the transmitter. The sensor version with isolator can even be implemented in temperatures up to752°F (400°C).
Cost-Effective Innovation for Level Measurement – VEGAFLEX 66
The implementation of guided microwave sensors in the reference vessels of distillation columns is an interesting alternative to non-contacting radar sensors. Together with the tube of the reference vessel, the rod version of VEGAFLEX 66 constitutes an ideal system for signal guidance. The microwaves travel through it just like in coaxial cable, and even large lateral equalization holes cause no signal disturbance.
The measurement is independent of temperature, pressure and density changes of the measured product. Build-up on the vessel wall or on the sensor rod does not influence the measuring result.
