Maintaining Environmental Compliance Using the SE 555 Memosens pH Sensor
Catalytic reforming is a process which typically uses a platinum-based catalyst to convert naphthas, which have a low octane rating, into high octane products called reformates. This process is also sometimes called platforming or ultraforming depending on the process licensor. Catalytic reforming provides valuable high-octane feedstocks to the gasoline blend as well as hydrogen for the hydrocrackers.
Local environmental agencies and the EPA require ultraformer wash tower pH monitoring and reporting. Too much downtime without data collection or inaccurate data will lead to fines from these regulatory bodies. Because the ultraformer wash towers commonly run at a pH of 4, the process is tough on probes and can lead to frequent re-calibration and sensor replacement.
The Solution
The SE 555 pH sensor is ideal for use in an aggressive environment like the ultraformer. It’s design reduces calibration frequency and provides extended sensor life through:
- Hydrogen sensitive glass with fast response and accurate measurement in low pH media
- Ceramic junction resists drift caused by process liquids entering the electrolyte chamber
- All-plastic Memosens® submersible, inductive connection prevents failure caused by corrosion
Memosens technology gives technicians an additional method to avoid extended process disruptions. Memosens sensors, like the SE 555, can be pre-calibrated ahead of time in the shop or lab saving maintenance time. Technicians can easily use the Portavo to perform both offline calibration and sensor diagnostics. This device ensures a more accurate calibration and more reliable data reporting, by allowing technicians to calibrate in an environmentally controlled location.
The microprocessor in the Memosens sensor head stores data from offline calibrations. The technician can then simply carry it out to the transmitter, disconnect the cable from the existing sensor, and do a “hot-swap” with no additional calibration or configuration. Pre-calibration significantly reduces downtime.
The Stratos Pro is a two-wire loop powered Class 1 Div 1 FM/CSA rated transmitter for use with Memosens sensors. It provides a 4…20 mA output, superimposed with HART process and diagnostic data. Plant operations can view diagnostic data when using AMS software. Therefore, operators can now predict maintenance requirements, reducing the potential for unscheduled process interruptions.
What was this Customer’s Return on Investment?
Eliminate permit violations due to lost or bad data:
The SE 555’s measurement reliability in aggressive environments eliminates permit violations due to erroneous measurement data or lack of data from non-operational pH measurements.
Reduce costs associated with frequent sensor calibration and replacement:
Fewer sensor calibrations and replacements significantly reduced overall sensor costs when switching to Memosens smart digital technology.
Cut field maintenance time:
Operators can perform offline calibrations in the safety of the lab or shop, reducing time spent in the process unit.
