Using Guided Wave Radar in Steam loops

By Keith Riley and Ravi Jethra, Endress+Hauser

February 9, 2012 - Endress+Hauser introduces “Proper Employment of Guided Wave Radar in Steam Loops,” a white paper that discusses how guided wave radar can be used to measure level in steam applications such as feedwater tanks, high pressure preheaters, hotwells and drums.

Measuring level is critical in steam systems as this measurement is used to control water supply and corresponding steam levels. If the amount of water isn’t precise, efficiency suffers. In more extreme circumstances, damage to other components from either too much water (carryover) or too little water (low water condition) can occur, shortening a boiler’s lifespan. In the most extreme situation, a dry fire accident could occur resulting in severe damage and personal injury.

Level indication in the steam loop is critical, yet the methods employed to measure it have been slow to evolve or change. Some of that has been due to code requirements (PG-60 of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code), or a simple lack of confidence in newer technologies.

Only in the past 15 to 20 years, recent in terms of boiler/steam loop history, have technologies such as magnetic level gages or differential pressure devices been used in place of direct reading glass gauges. The most recent, and in many cases the best, addition to level measurement technologies for steam loop applications is Guided Wave Radar.

A Guided Wave Radar supplied with dynamic Gas Phase Compensation will provide a highly accurate steam level measurement. Properly designed, the unit will operate in saturated steam conditions up to 2900 psig @ 690°F with no fear of damage to the electronics. It will also eliminate the concern of having a measured error of up to 20% or more that must be accounted for, as with some other types of instruments.

The white paper discusses how Guided Wave Rader technology functions, how it differs from more traditional forms of level indication in steam applications, and why it’s often the best solution.

Click here to download the white paper.

About Endress+Hauser
Endress+Hauser is one of the world's leading suppliers of measuring devices, services and solutions for industrial process engineering. In 2011, the company group recorded sales of approx. 1.9 billion dollars with more than 8,500 employees. Endress+Hauser supplies sensors, devices, systems and services for level, flow, pressure and temperature measure¬ment as well as liquid analysis and measured value recording. The company supports its customers with automa¬tion, logistical and IT services and solutions.
 

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