2.2 Transducer mounting location
The XL7 sensor can be mounted directly in a pipeline or tank. The following points should be considered when determining the best location for the transducer:
2.2.1 Vessel/pipeline size
- The transducer can be located in a tank or vessel of virtually any size where there is a suitable mating process fitting located at the measurement point. Always ensure that the sensor cannot be inserted into an obstruction, such as a stirring arm in a tank.
- In the case of a pipeline, the best installation is with the transducer mounted in a bend and pointing into the flow. Details of such mounting options are provided later in this section.
2.2.2 Process conditions
- The transducer must be installed in process conditions (pressure, temperature, materials etc) compliant with the instrument specification and any details on the Certificate of Conformity.
2.2.3 Plant vibration
- The sensor works by measuring the resonant characteristics of a vibrating element. It therefore relies on integral vibration sensors for its operation. Although the instrument has a high immunity to plant disturbance and normal vibrations are not a problem, it is recommended that the sensor is not located in areas susceptible to high vibration.
2.2.4 Electrical interference
- The XL7 uses magnetic sensors in its operation therefore avoid mounting the instrument near a large interfering electromagnetic field, for example a transformer or motor.
2.2.5 Build-up/scaling
- Experience has shown that the risk of build-up and scaling is very small. This is attributed to the vibration of the instrument serving to dislodge any material which attempts to attach itself to the sensing surface. To further reduce the possibility of material build-up, it is best to locate the sensor tip at a point of good flow, and also where there might be some turbulence.
2.2.6 Orientation
- In general, the XL7 performance is orientation independent, but it is preferred to mount the sensor in a position that does not allow the lodging of debris which ultimately might build up around the vibrating element. Orientation is covered further in this section.
2.2.7 Wear
- Care should be taken to ensure the flowrate and any abrasion capability of the fluid do not combine to erode the sensing element. Sensor material should be chosen to match the aggressiveness of the fluid and the process conditions.
2.2.8 Removal
- The XL7 transducer is designed for prolonged use without maintenance. However, if the instrument can be removed from the fluid, it is extremely simple to perform calibration checks and is also useful for cleaning or visual inspection. It is worth giving some thought to the accessibility of the location with a view to periodic removal for inspection.
2.2.9 Hazardous Areas
- The XL7-150 Series instruments are certified for use in Hazardous Areas. The XL7-100 Series are for Safe Area use only.
2.2.10 Environmental
- Install the XL7 transducer and its associated Signal Processor in locations compatible with the ingress protection of the equipment enclosures.
- IP Ratings for enclosures are as follows:
- All XL7 transducers: IP67 (cable gland requires cable of external diameter 5-12mm)
- VP550 wall-mounted Signal Processor: IP65