New certification highlights flow computer's enhanced precision in custody transfer

ABB's Flow-X flow computer module has obtained C1D2/Zone 2 Certification for highly accurate measurement in mid and downstream oil and gas applications, even in the harshest of conditions.

Accurate measurement is crucial to custody transfer. Minor errors can potentially create high financial impact, but precision can be hard to maintain when operating in harsh field conditions. In response to this challenge, the ABB Flow-X gas and liquid flow computer has been improved to meet the Class 1 Division 2 and ATEX/IECEx Zone 2 certification, which extends operating temperature range from -40°C to +75°C (-40°F to +167°F) with 5% to 95% humidity.

Its analogue inputs provide unmatched accuracy of 0.008% and make the Flow-X series a high-accuracy flow computer for hazardous areas that complies with the most stringent standards for custody transfer and legal metrology for the control room and the field. 

Flow-X is also the most versatile and cost-effective automation platform used for measurement and control of gas and liquid pipelines, LACT units and truck & rail loading and offloading systems. Its complete control functionality eliminates the need for any programming, an additional PLC or a sampler controller. Besides the typical proving, batching and PID control functions, Flow-X also provides configurable valve, sampler, LACT and liquid (un)loading control. It doesn’t require additional purging, Ex enclosures or junction boxes.

With reliability being one of the top priorities, the entire Flow-X series provides a secure and stable solution for legal metrology. Rigorously tested for immunity for radiated and conducted electro-mechanical disturbances, it also incorporates role-based access control and secure communication to prevent unauthorised access and data tampering. 

Ease of use comes with a multi-lingual user interface with a guided setup and configuration of the flow metering system. Its traceability is fully compliant with API MPMS Chapters 21.1 and 21.2, including as-found/as-left verifications.

ABB’s Process Automation business is a leader in automation, electrification and digitalization for the process and hybrid industries. We serve our customers with a broad portfolio of products, systems, and end-to-end solutions, including our #1 distributed control system, software, and lifecycle services, industry-specific products as well as measurement and analytics, marine and turbocharging offerings. As the global #2 in the market, we build on our deep domain expertise, diverse team and global footprint, and are dedicated to helping our customers increase competitiveness, improve their return on investment and run safe, smart, and sustainable operations.