The unique capability of Rheotherm flow meters to measure very low flow, often combined with our FM approved intrinsic safety option, makes them useful in many types of chemical/ petrochemical applications.
Low Liquid Flow
A chemical company uses Rheotherm flow meters to measure flow of a liquified hydrocarbon. The flanged, intrinsically safe sensor and explosion-proof electronics are located in a Class I, Div. 1, Groups CD area. With the low pressure drop of a TU sensor, the fluid will not flash in the line. Sensors with 1/8” flow tubes were used for this application, as the flow rates are less than 250 cc/min.
Rheotherm advantage: accurate low flow measurement, low pressure drop, intrinsic safety
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Hydrogen Chloride
A customer at a major chemical company is using several Rheotherm flow meters to measure and control very low flow rates of HCl vapor. Rheotherm meters were installed after a long hunt by the customer to replace very small orifice meters. The orifice meters, while accurate, had a problem with the orifice plugging; they also did not have the necessary rangeability.
To withstand the corrosive effects of the HCl, the wetted tubing material for the sensors is Hastelloy C-276. The customer describes the meters as making “probably the most critical measurement in the plant.”
Rheotherm advantage: corrosion resistance, low flow rate sensitivity
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Low Flow/Low Maintenance
Chemical companies use forms of mercaptan as an odorant, a component of polymer production, or in other processes. Examples of the low flow rates requiring use of our 1/16” sensors are 0.27-2.7 cc/min and 0.1-2 kg/hr.
Rheotherm advantage: low flow rate sensitivity, intrinsically safe/explosion-proof, low maintenance
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Gas with Liquid Carryover
A company is using Rheotherm insertion probe flow meters to measure the flow of nitrogen with organic solvent vapors to a vent scrubber system. Rheotherm flow meters were selected to replace turbine meters, which were damaged by occasional liquid carryover. The probes, with flange fittings, have all Hastelloy C-276 wetted surfaces. Calibrated for flow rates of 2-30 ft/sec, the units have provided reliable service for many years.
Rheotherm advantage: chemical compatibility, no mechanical parts, good rangeability
Click here for details on the Rheotherm flow meter used for these applications