Portable gauging is an important process in the petroleum industry that involves measuring the level and volume of liquids in storage tanks, such as crude oil, refined products, and chemicals. The process is used to ensure accurate inventory management and to prevent overfilling of tanks, which can lead to safety hazards and environmental damage.
There are several types of portable gauging devices used in the petroleum industry, including:
- Ultrasonic level sensors: These sensors use ultrasonic waves to measure the distance between the liquid surface and the top of the tank. The distance measurement is then used to calculate the volume of the liquid.
- Radar level sensors: These sensors use radar waves to measure the level of the liquid in the tank. The radar waves bounce off the surface of the liquid and the time it takes for the wave to return is used to calculate the distance to the liquid surface.
- Manual gauging tapes: These are traditional tools used by operators to manually measure the liquid level in the tank. The tape is lowered into the tank and the level of the liquid is read off the tape.
- Dipsticks: Dipsticks are another manual gauging tool that are used to measure the level of liquid in a tank. The dipstick is inserted into the tank and the level of the liquid is read off the stick.
Portable gauging devices can be used in a wide range of petroleum applications, including in refineries, petrochemical plants, and storage terminals. They are particularly useful in applications where the tanks are difficult to access or where continuous monitoring is required. By ensuring accurate and reliable measurements, portable gauging devices can help to improve safety, reduce waste, and increase operational efficiency in the petroleum industry.