Flow computer offers multi-stream measurement of gas flow

The SFC3000 flow computer from Ex-i Flow Measurement Ltd can be configured to supply a multi-stream measurement solution for gas flow. Using the computer to make multiple sample point measurements can save cost by enabling a single emissions analyser to make sequential measurements from many different sample points.

With extra I/O option boards, the number of streams measured by the computer can be increased to five. While it is possible to have multiple streams on a single I/O board, fiscal measurements need one stream per board. If more than five streams are required, these can be spread over more than one flow computer, and the data collated together using the supervisor features of the device.

The optional I/O boards also have output functionality to enable the control of or information to be passed to other parts of a system via pulse or status digital outputs and 4-20mA outputs. With the addition of a communication board, data can also be passed to other systems through the communication board ports, such as printers or DCS. Data can also be obtained from a gas chromatograph or other source via the serial or ethernet ports.

Optional boards include I/O Digital Stream Boards, a I/O Analogue Stream Board, and a I/O Switch Stream Board.

The computer is a highly versatile liquid hydrocarbon and gas flow measuring device that can operate in a standalone single-stream flow measurement system or as part of a highly complex multi-stream system. It provides a great deal more than a dedicated flow computer. It can operate on several levels, from a supervisory machine to a standalone flow computer or as a system component. With its touchscreen VGA display and extensive processing capabilities, combined with simple-to-use controls and unique operating software, it can function as a complete station supervisor integrated into a flow computer housing.

Designed specifically to meet the needs of the worldwide liquid hydrocarbon and gas measurement markets, the flow computer is intended to positively contribute to the management and conservation of the world's dwindling energy resources by providing versatile and accurate measurement and incorporating state-of-the-art designs and components.

The flow computer should be considered the 'brains' of a flow measurement system and requires a number of peripheral components to take measurements.