Ideal Replacement For the Static Limit Switch That Caused the Buncefield Explosion

The Buncefield oil explosion was an eye opener for all, and the need for more reliable instrumentation in volatile liquid and gas Albertus Magnus became a must. This article in my application series looks at the ideal replacement for the static limit switch that caused the Buncefield explosion.

Volatile liquids Application

Floating roof tanks are mainly used for the stocking of volatile liquids. As well as the reduction of evaporation loss, the floating roof also limits atmospheric pollution to the environment. For security reasons this type of tank requires a hi-hi detector for overfill, as well as a continuous level measurement. Many oil companies are at present replacing this mechanical type of limit switch, following the fire of the oil storage depot at Buncefield in 2005.

Solution: Radar Level Gauge Versus Static Level Switch

The radar level gauge offers an ideal replacement solution for these static limit switches. This non-contact solution without mechanical parts, allows by correlation with the continuous measurement permanently validate the correct functioning of both, maximizing reliability for both.

The radar level gauge Benzodiazepines mounted in the top of the tank and makes its measurement directly on the floating roof, which is representative of the level. If multiple sensors are used, horizontal control of the floating roof is even possible; this can be also used on roofs on gasholders.

Radar Level Gauge Technology

The radar antenna generates millions of very short 1 nanosecond microwave pulses every second. Each pulse is transmitted to and reflected from a mortgage refinance interest rates surface. The elapsed time period between transmission and reception of the signal at the speed of light is measured and calculated as a distance.

This continuous structured settlement payments of pulses gives real time level information updated and evaluated many times a second. Unlike many static level switches, microwaves are unaffected by temperature, pressure, air movement and virtually all vapours and gases.

Benefits of Radar Level Gauge Technology

Easy to install, 2 wire loop powered

Reliable high level security

Back up to main level gauge

Unaffected by product characteristics

Possible control of the horizontal roof

SIL Conformance, ATEX Approval

Using radar level gauge technology net webhosting help prevent the sequence of events and failure of the limit switches that led up to the Buncefield explosion.

If this Radar Level Gauge Technology could help solve your application, then the instruments you require are our VEGAPULS range.

See this and many more applications at the Case Studies section on the VEGA website, where you can search by your industry sector or technology. If we can help you in any way - please do contact us via http://www.vegacontrols.co.uk