Identifying Copper Corrosivity: No Longer Subjective

Copper strip testing continues to be a critical indicator of sulphur compounds present after the refining process. However, measuring corrosivity continues to be a challenge in the petroleum industry, as no accurate standardised test has been developed to date.

Resolving Issues of Current Methods

To resolve this challenge, Ayalytical Instruments has just introduced the Copper Digital Detection Imaging (CuDDI), a new standard of copper quality analysis for the petro industry under its VISAYA product line. Using a high-resolution camera with optical intelligence, CuDDI identifies exact levels of corrosivity present from petroleum through a 4-step automated vision algorithm and classification process, eliminating operator bias. Results are then digitally recorded and seamlessly integrate with LIMS software.

“Current tests result in human bias and error due to reliance on manual and visual assessments,” says Ayalytical Lead Project Engineer Juan Ayala. “CuDDI uses a highly refined testing process, which includes a sophisticated lens and panel testing, to ensure the most accurate readings.”

CuDDI’s higher precision, patent pending design eliminates guesswork and operator bias from copper corrosion detection The digital detection imaging is realised through a unique vision algorithm and light box that records, calculates and displays accurate corrosivity ratings in a matter of seconds. The results are remarkable improvements over the rating, method and sample handling procedures performed in current laboratory procedures. This standardized measurement of copper quality impacts the petro industry and refinement process at a core level and sets the new standard for copper detection.

Benefits Over Current Methods

Improved Ratings:

CuDDI’s improvements over current test rating output and analysis include:

• Easy-to-Use Touch Screen Driven Software
• 1-2-3 Button Operation
• Digital Image Logging Complete with Operator Notes and Calculated Results
• Integrated Industrial Computer for Easy Interface with Network
• Direct LIMS Connectivity
• USB, Ethernet and HDMI Outputs

Improved Methodology:

CuDDI’s improvements over current test procedures and end results include:

• Removes Inherent Bias with Manual Rating
• Voltage and Current Controlled Light Box for Consistent Ambient Light Environment
• Automatic Detection of Copper Strip Size
• Long-lasting LED Light Source
• Auto Rotation of Strip for Recording of Both Sides

Improved Samples:

CuDDI’s improvements over current test sample handling and errors include:

• Enables Single-Hand Loading via Copper Strip Slide Holder
• Eliminates Fingerprints and Unwanted Markings on Strips
• Slide Holder Doubles in Functionality as Tool for Manual Verification
• Prompts Operator When Strip Shrinks to Unusable Size
• Provides Auto Recognition of Sides A & B

CuDDI is the first high-tech optical powered device under Ayalytical’s suite of visual testing instruments powered by sophisticated optics, VISAYA, and improves on the visual rating of method ASTM D130 and method ASTM D1838. Full specs and options are available here.