Material Measurement

Hello tmatambo,

I don't see that any direct in-pipeline meter would withstand the requirements, considering the materials involved.

My first thought is a "weighbridge" type of sensor, with real-time recording into a remote computer.

This weighs the pipe containing the product every second, or as frequently as needed.

The actual weight would relate directly to the Specific gravity of the mixture being pumped, therefore exact quantities could be established after proper calibration Tests were done.

The main problem I see is the need for flexible connections at each end of the "weighbridge", along with increased wear at connection junctions.

After thinking further, why not use a long steel pipe, supported horizontally at each end only, with an external fixed laser reflecting off a mirror mounted in the centre, back to a fixed external sensor.

That pipe deflection would be proportional to the passing material inside the pipe, with the output from the external sensor sent to a remote Computer, and results should be quite accurate after calibration Tests were done, the advantage would be that no "connection joint" problems would occur.

I'll have a further think about your situation.

I do appreciate different Plant areas perhaps like to claim different amounts, often to do with "production bonuses", and a proper independent metering system is the correct way to go, to ensure no disputes.

Kind Regards....

Hi,

look for the Coriolis type flow sensors.

In these a section of the tube is oscillated,

(either a section that has the same direction as the tube oscillated perpendicular to its length, or a U-bend with end flanges in the direction of the tube is oscillated around the direction of the tube),

and the Coriolis forces distort the pure bending oscillation according to the accelerated or decelerated mass of tube plus massflow.

I once used one from Endress and Hauser, Germany but much smallerthan you need.

If not existing ready to use I would proceed with the weighing idea of the previous post.

RHABE