The increasing degree of automation requires reliable sensor solutions for certain detection of these phase interfaces in the running process. The application of sonic velocity technology yields the following advantages:
- displacement of manual detection principals (e.g. visual), thereby elimination of human factors to achieve a higher level of safety
- redemption of inaccurate non-direct methods (e.g. time operation) to achieve a higher level of productivity
- improvement of product yield by waste reduction
- safety aspects
Batch process
In a batch process, the response signal of sonic velocity can be used for the direct control of a multi-way valve. This allows a separation between the product, intermediate and carrier phase.
The sensor response time is 250 milliseconds.
Usually, the sensor will be installed into the pipeline. Alternatively, the sensor is integrated in the bottom outlet valve of the company SchuF. Mounting the valve into the vessel enables a measurement directly in the vessel without dead space and without an extra process connection.
Continuous process
Installing the sensors at different heights of a settling tank controls the separation of the process stream into the product phase and carrier phase. In this application, the sonic velocity value of each phase will be kept constant, while switching the valves of every outlet.
A typical application is the separation of process waste water into a stream, into the effluent treatment and into the recovery stream.
There are different variants of installing the sensors into the vessel.
Many industrial processes involve two separate phases. The fast reaction time of the sensor and electronics provide a quick response for detecting the phase change. This is possible in continuous as well as in batch processes.
Phase separation
Inline analytical technology for phase separation in pipelines, in batch processes, in continuous processes and as valve solution
Phase separation | 5 MB