Comparing 2-Wire Coriolis Technology
Traditionally, chemical plants and refineries already have a twisted pair 2-wire network. Emerson’s 4200 2-wire Coriolis transmitter allows users to replace existing unreliable 2-wire flow points without compromising on quality or space. Continue reading to understand the differences between conventional technologies and the innovative 4200 2-wire Coriolis transmitter paired with Micro Motion Coriolis sensors.
Limitations of Legacy Differential Pressure (DP) Technology
While legacy differential pressure technology is understandable, it has many limitations. Several leak points (see illustration below) cause safety issues within plants, creating additional costs. Additionally, DP flow measurement technology consumes a large amount of available process line pressure to calculate flow, making it difficult to install with primary elements requiring a long-run flow conditioning straight pipe reducing available space in the plant. Legacy DP flow meters are sized for the maximum amount of flow and will cause rangeability issues at lower flow rates.
Limitations of Turbine Technology
Due to its many moving parts, turbine technology provides challenges throughout the life cycle of the meter. In addition to the high cost of ownership, sudden surges of liquid or gas will damage the turbine meter bearings. This results in loss of accuracy and eventual meter removal for repair, leading to increased production downtime. Turbine flow meters are flow profile constrained and the energy of the fluid must be sufficient to turn the rotor in the meter.
Limitations of Positive Displacement (PD) Technology
Positive displacement technology wears over time. More volume might pass through the meter, but it will display the same measurement as before. This causes meter accuracy issues, creating more problems for your process. PD technology also has quite a few moving parts, wearing out the flow path over time and increasing unexpected plant shutdowns. Positive displacement meters must also be disassembled and cleaned if the meter plugs due to exposure to dirty or abrasive process fluids. This leads to increased process downtime.
Benefits of 2-Wire Coriolis Technology
The basic operation of Coriolis flow meters is based on the principles of motion mechanics. As fluid moves through a vibrating tube, it is forced to accelerate as it moves toward the point of peak-amplitude vibration. Conversely, decelerating fluid moves away from the point of peak amplitude as it exits the tube. The result is a twisting reaction of the flow tube during flowing conditions as it traverses each vibration cycle.
With its best-in-class accuracy and direct mass measurement, the 4200 transmitter will increase plant throughput, quality, and reliability. In contrast to the other technologies mentioned above, the 2-wire transmitter will give users the flexibility of measuring different flow rates.
Utilizing the integrated data historian with real-time clock will capture days of process data and offers a complete audit trail and alert log. Smart Meter Verification, also included as a standard, provides confidence that the meter is working properly and can alert the user of any changes in meter health with a suggested course of action.
The display of the 2-wire transmitter can be rotated via software using the display configuration menu rather than removing the front cover and mechanically rotating the display using a screwdriver. The 4200 uses capacitive touch buttons, which can be used to fully configure the transmitter without the need for additional equipment or removing the front cover.
The upfront cost of the other technologies mentioned might be less, but over the life cycle of the Coriolis 2-wire transmitter, it will prove to be the least expensive. Without any moving parts needing maintenance, the 4200 eliminates unnecessary repair costs, plant shutdowns, waste or re-work.
Eliminating plant start-up delays, absorbing late design changes, and adding speed and flexibility to your workplace are all benefits of using a 4200 transmitter. Best-in-class, this 2-wire transmitter improves your flow measurements compared to other traditional technologies.
