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Systems may be
based on the use of floats, probes or even more sophisticated technology. This tutorial
studies the use of probes to provide adjustable & non-adjustable on/off control, and
modulating control of liquids. Simple flow control applications are also considered.
Applications:
The system can be used for liquids with conductivities of 1 S/cm or more, and is suitable for
condensate tanks, feedwater tanks and process vats or vessels. Where the conductivity falls
below this level it is recommended that capacitance based level controls are used.
Point to note:
If the tank is constructed from a non-conductive material, the electrical circuit may be
achieved via another probe tip.
Advantage:
Adjustable on/off level control allows the level settings to be altered without shutting down
the process.
Disadvantage:
More expensive than non-adjustable on/off control.
Applications:
Can be used for most liquids, including those with low conductivities.
Point to note:
Can be used in situations where the liquid surface is turbulent, and the in-built electronics can
be adjusted to prevent rapid on/off cycling of the pump (or valve).
Advantage:
1. Because the probe and controller only provide a signal to which other devices respond,
rather than providing the power to operate a device, there is no limit on the size of the
application.
2. Steady control of level within the tank.
Disadvantage:
1. More expensive than a conductivity probe system.
2. More complex than a conductivity probe system.
3. Supply system must be permanently charged.
4. Less suitable for stand-by operation.
5. Possibly greater electricity consumption.
Point to note:
To protect the supply pump from overheating when pumping against a closed modulating
valve, a re-circulation or spill back line is provided to ensure a minimum flowrate through the
pump (neither shown in Figure 8.3.5).
Steam flow control applications
The control of steam flow is less common than pressure and temperature control, but it is
used in applications where the control of pressure or temperature is not possible or not
appropriate to achieving the process objectives. The following sections give more
information on measuring and controlling the flow of steam.
Summary
It is usually better to install the flowmetering device upstream of the flow control valve. The
higher pressure will minimise its size and allow it to be more cost effective. It is also likely
that the flowmeter will be subjected to a more constant steam pressure (and density) and will
be less affected by turbulence from the downstream flow control valve.
In some cases, the application may be required to control at a constant flowrate. This means
that features, such as high turndown ratios, are not important, and orifice plate flowmeters are
appropriate.
If the flowrate is to be varied by large amounts, however, then turndown becomes an issue
that must be considered.
The subject of Flowmetering is discussed in greater depth in Block 4.