Back to:

Automation Portals

MTS Sensors News

MTS Sensors provide level measurements for BP storage tanks

Go to company's web site

MTS Sensors provide level measurements for BP storage tanks

MTS M-Series sensor continue to provide BP with accurate tank level measurement…

CARY, N.C (October 25, 2006) — MTS Systems supplied BP (formerly Amoco) with M-Series sensors for use in their storage tanks for refined petroleum products. Using the flexible M-Series sensors to fit the 45 to 60-ft. tall vessels, the sensors provide both tank level and temperature measurement of flammable liquids. With a rugged design, the M-Series enables BP to monitor light oils, diesel fuels, and gasoline at various locations throughout the United States.

BP has used MTS level sensors in their Above Ground Storage Tanks (AST) for over a decade because the accuracy of magnetostrictive technology in the measurement of liquid level is vital in preventing serious accidents from occurring with the extremely hazardous petroleum products.

“We have used MTS sensors because their accuracy provides us with vital information that enables us to prevent accidents and keep detailed information on our inventory,” said Ken Andreen, Project Manager for BP. “We have been most impressed, however, by the hands-on support MTS provides when there is a problem. Their field technicians work hard to keep our tank storage system running, which is why we have maintained a working relationship for so long.”

As the second largest liquids pipeline company in the United States, BP adheres to the highest possible standards of environmental safety as put forth by the US Department of Transportation Office of Pipeline Safety. When transporting 450 million barrels of oil refined products, natural gas liquids, carbon dioxide, and chemicals daily it is necessary for the company to take the necessary precautions in order to avoid serious accidents.

Magnetostrictive level gauges are ideal for above ground (AST) tank applications. By providing temperature monitoring along with level measurement, they allow BP to closely monitor the volume of product in each tank. The sensor, consisting of a flexible stainless steel pipe and electronics contained in an explosion-proof housing, works by sending an electrical pulse along the length of the waveguide installed in the tank. A float with an integral magnet rests on the liquid level’s surface and allows the electronics to calculate the level or interface inside the tank from the return signal generated by the interaction between the waveguide pulse and the float magnetic field. The float moves up and down the pipe as liquid raises or lowers in the tank. Digital temperature sensors along the length of the pipe determine the temperature of the stored fuel for accurate monitoring.

“BP has been a great partner to us over the years, and we have strived to provide the highest quality and most reliable sensors for their storage tanks,” said Adrian Totten, Level Products Marketing Manager for MTS. “The M-Series sensors are ideal for these types of applications because of their accuracy in level and temperature measurement. MTS is the only magnetostrictive level manufacturer who can supply this degree of accuracy for both underground and above ground storage tank applications.”

With the capability to provide level, interface, and temperature measurement all from one tank opening, the M-Series offers a wide variety of options for storage tank operators. The M-Series level sensors also provide remote programming and diagnostic capabilities, via serial communication to simplify commissioning and trouble-shooting. The flexible M-Series sensor has a maximum nonlinearity of 0.008% F.S. (1/16”) and a repeatability of less than 0.002% F.S. (0.015”) and is available in various lengths, from 18in. to 60ft.

MTS Systems Corporation is the world leader in magnetostrictive linear-position and liquid-level sensor technology. MTS Systems Corporation is a global operation, with facilities in the U.S., Germany and Japan. In the U.S., the MTS Sensors Division has an ISO 9001 facility manufacturing rugged and reliable liquid-level and linear position sensors based on patented MTS Temposonics® technology. With a strong commitment to research and development, product quality and customer service, the Sensors Division is constantly seeking ways to bring the highest value to customers.

About BP Pipelines
BP Pipelines is the second largest liquids pipeline company in the U.S. transporting over 450 million barrel-miles of oil, refined products, natural gas liquids, carbon dioxide, and chemicals daily -- about 9 percent of the U.S. Liquids pipeline market. Beyond BP’s core operations, they participate in various joint venture pipelines. BP’s Core and Joint venture operations span 30 states and are managed in Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Houston, and Midland, TX, with the pipeline control center located in Tulsa, OK. BP Pipelines is headquartered in Warrenville, IL, and is a part of the Downstream Logistics, Trading and Marketing Group for BP.

Go to company's web site

Automation.com Real-time Information for the Automation Professional May. 25, 2012

Cart

Automation.com

NOTICE: Your use of Automation.com constitutes your agreement to the Legal Notices, Policies, Terms, and Conditions governing its use. You should review these terms before proceeding.Copyright © 2000-2010 Automation.com - automation.com, automationtechies.com, automationtechies, automationtechie, and Member-Match are all trade and service marks of Automation Resources, Inc. All Rights Reserved.