The Smart Way to Measure Viscosity

Unveiling for the first time at ACHEMA 2009 (Hall 10.2, Stand F5-F6) in Frankfurt will be the next generation of the field-proven XL7 on-line process viscometer from Hydramotion Ltd. (UK).

Capable of measuring any fluid in any process, the XL7 is one of the most robust and adaptable viscometers on the market. The latest model stores all instrument-specific data on the transducer, giving complete flexibility of installation. To accompany the device there is a wholly new interface unit with an enhanced display and an innovative range of features.

Ready for use straight out of the box, the high-performance XL7 provides continuous real-time viscosity measurement with high resolution, excellent repeatability and virtually unlimited range, from 0 up to at least 1,000,000,000 centipoise. The standard sensor is made from 316 stainless steel, but if necessary other materials such as special alloys can be used, or the sensor can be supplied with a custom coating such as PTFE or tungsten carbide. Any XL7 model can be supplied in an intrinsically safe version certified to IEC Ex ia IIC, suitable for all Hazardous Areas up to and including Zone 0 (explosive atmosphere continuously present), equivalent to Class 1 Division 1 Group A.

Outputs include a fully-configurable 4-20 mA analogue output and an RS485 serial data link for remote viscosity monitoring or control.

The sensor always operates at the fluid temperature, which eliminates the chance of potential errors arising from localised cooling of the fluid. The latest high-temperature HT2 model can be used at up to 450 degrees C (842 degrees F) without special cooling, while high-pressure models are rated at 20,000 psi (1380 bar) or greater. Measurements are unaffected by variations in flow rate or by the presence of suspended solids or gases. The sensor naturally rejects typical plant vibration frequencies, which gives a very high output stability even in extremely noisy wellhead or refinery environments. With such a combination of toughness and resilience the XL7 is the viscometer of choice for any oil industry process, no matter how harsh or aggressive the measurement conditions.

The XL7 is factory-calibrated to certified viscosity standards traceable to NIST and requires no on-site calibration. The sensor is an all-welded construction which can be mounted at any location and in any orientation using any process fitting. Calibration is unaffected by installation or environment. As there are no moving parts, maintenance is negligible and no spares or accessories are required. The result is a reliable, easy-to-use and durable viscosity measurement system with an unbeatably low cost of ownership.