Improved accuracy in butanol level measurement

Nufarm’s plant in Wyke, Bradford, requires careful level monitoring in tanks to ensure that chemicals used in the process can be replenished as required, with accurate stock control, and that processes and maintenance work run smoothly without unplanned downtime. The existing radar measurement device in a horizontal butanol tank had become obsolete, and the company was looking for a solution to improve accuracy and ease operations. 

Micropilot FMR62B is used for continuous non-contact level measurement in challenging liquid applications. It masters process requirements like high temperatures and high process pressures as well as changing media, making it ideal for chemical industry applications like Nufarm’s. An FMR62B device was installed on the butanol tank and a linearisation table was calculated to convert level into volume for precise tracking of inventory and usage within the plant.

As well as Bluetooth, the radar device comes equipped with Heartbeat Technology, which increases measurement reliability through quick diagnostics and in-situ device verification without interrupting the process. “We use Heartbeat Technology a lot,” confirms Ben Ross. “Instead of removing all the instruments during every single shutdown – because it’s a huge job and a safety risk – we can do a Heartbeat verification first to pick up any faults and see if further testing is needed.”