Working with Cryogenic / Low temperatures

Unlocking the Benefits of LNG

The liquefaction of natural gas into LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) offers a game-changing solution for the safe and cost-effective transportation of this resource over extensive distances, particularly in regions where pipelines are unavailable or economically nonviable.

LNG is typically handled by storing and transporting it in cryogenic liquid form within specially designed tanks loaded onto vessels. These tanks maintain the LNG at an astonishingly cold temperature of -163°C (-261°F), significantly enhancing its density. Nevertheless, despite the insulation, a gradual warming effect takes place, causing the LNG cargo to evaporate when it reaches its boiling point. This natural process, known as ‘boil-off,’ is inevitable, and the resulting boil-off gas (BOG) must be effectively managed to maintain the tanks’ pressure.

Measuring gases at such extremely low temperatures is a formidable challenge for most gas flow measurement systems. Fluenta, however, has introduced a groundbreaking adaptation of our innovative FlarePhase Sensor. This sensor has undergone rigorous testing and is capable of accurate measurements even in the extreme cold of -200 degrees Celsius, surpassing the minimum required temperature for precise boil-off gas measurement.

If your LNG operations demand accurate and dependable measurements, we strongly encourage you to connect with us. Our dedicated team is prepared to collaborate with your organization to create a tailor-made solution that not only addresses your specific requirements but also ensures compliance with regulatory standards. Reach out to us today to explore our state-of-the-art solutions.

High levels of Hydrogen in Flare Lines

The High-Velocity Hydrogen Measurement Predicament

Currently, ultrasonic methods face issues when measuring high-velocity gases with substantial hydrogen content. This issue stems from hydrogen’s high-speed sound propagation at approximately 1300 meters per second, necessitating rapid processing across short sensor distances.

Additional complexities arise from the wide angle of dispersion in hydrogen, low signal attenuation, and internal reflections, making it challenging to pinpoint the direct source signal and accurately calculate time of flight, particularly in higher hydrogen levels.

The Innovative Fluenta Solution

Fluenta is actively developing a range of electronics, digital signal processing techniques, and sensor materials to ensure precise measurements in environments with exceptionally high hydrogen levels. We are proud to have been chosen as a partner for the UK government’s ‘Futuregrid’ project, dedicated to delivering a technology solution for measuring 100% hydrogen within the next 18 months, with the project already underway.

Collaborate with Us to Tackle High-Hydrogen Challenges

If you are grappling with challenges in a high-hydrogen application, we strongly recommend reaching out to us. Our team is ready to collaborate with your organization to develop a customized solution that not only addresses your specific needs but also ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. Get in touch today to explore our cutting-edge solutions.

When the heat is on...

Fluenta are pleased to introduce the latest iteration of our FlarePhase sensor. This innovative sensor can precisely measure gas flow in environments with temperatures as high as 350 degrees Celsius.

What sets us apart is our ground-breaking approach to materials. Our sensors incorporate not only titanium sensor tips but also ceramics and electronics designed to withstand extreme temperatures. We have also developed a novel method for monitoring temperatures within the sensor probes and automatically calibrating the sensors for optimal signal strength. This ensures the most reliable measurements possible.

It’s not only that we can measure to over 350 degrees Celsius, it’s that the same sensor is also capable of reading to -40 degrees Celcius, one of the widest operating ranges of any sensor on the market.

Even our standard sensors offer a wide operational temperature range. By utilizing a combination of CHIRP and continuous wave technologies, we achieve pinpoint accuracy, especially when facing fluctuating temperature conditions.

If your flare lines are exposed to extreme temperature variations, Fluenta provides the most robust, accurate, and versatile solutions on the market.

The ability to measure in high CO2 environments

CO2 levels over 40% in flare gas have traditionally been no-go areas for accurate ultrasonic measurement, but we're challenging that wisdom with our new range of FlarePhase sensors.

Although ultrasonic measurement offers a significantly more precise method for gauging flare gas, it’s crucial to note that ultrasonic signals are prone to absorption by CO2. This absorption effect is so pronounced that even in smaller pipe sizes, such as 12 inches, signal attenuation can be as extreme as 100,000 to 1.

Given this situation, a high degree of specialized expertise is indispensable. At Fluenta, we are confident that we have a viable solution. We are currently in the testing phase of a system that can provide accurate measurements in conditions where CO2 comprises well over 90% of the gas composition. While this technology is still experimental, we already possess sensors and engineering solutions capable of accurate measurements in all but the most extreme scenarios.

If you are grappling with challenges in a high-CO2 application, we strongly recommend reaching out to us. We can collaborate with your teams to develop a tailored solution that not only addresses your specific needs but also ensures compliance with regulatory requirements.

We regularly undertake retrofits and upgrades for customers with challenging installations

Our dedicated engineers work closely with your teams to ensure the meters deliver the necessary compliance data, going the extra mile to meet your satisfaction.

Many problems arise from contaminated or damaged sensors, especially those in ‘Bias 90’ or other ‘intrusive’ sensor placements within the flow. We highly recommend transitioning to a Fluenta lateral 45 arrangement due to our ‘non-intrusive’ sensor technology. This shift not only significantly enhances accuracy but also extends the lifespan and serviceability of the installation, considering the extreme velocities and contaminants in flare lines.

Other common issues in failing installations involve handling extreme temperatures or challenging gas compositions, like CO2 and Hydrogen. At Fluenta, we offer a remarkable range of materials and signal processing solutions capable of accommodating a broader spectrum of temperatures and gas compositions compared to other market alternatives. Our sensors have been rigorously tested from as low as -200°C to as high as +350°C, providing the broadest operating temperature range available.