Panametrics technology helps keep the engines running on dredging ship

Panametrics provides a solution for a challenging application

Summary
A dredging vessel operator was looking for a portable flow measurement device to monitor the cooling water used to keep the diesel engines running at optimal temperatures. The water feeds a cooling circuit that can divest the flow to three different coolers.

The customer tried a number of clamp-on options, but found they were all unable
to deliver a reading. So, the team subsequently approached Panametrics, where
working in partnership, a solution was found for this challenging application.
Application
Medium: Seawater
Pipe size: DN700 (15mm thick, ½”) 28” and DN400 16” (10mm thick 0.39”)
Pipe material: GRE (Glass Reinforced Epoxy)
Flow rate: 150 to 1250 m3/h (660 to 5503 GPM)
Temperature: Ambient
Requested accuracy: <±5% of reading
Challenge
To achieve the best possible efficiency of the diesel engines ensuring the cooling
water flow is appropriately distributed across the three coolers is key. Not fulfilling this
requirement leads to increased maintenance costs due to premature bearings wear.
The previous clamp-on measurements installed for this application had failed due
to a combination of factors, such as a GRE pipe, with a high rugosity outer profile
(no possibility of sanding it) as well as a very compact installation with almost no
straight run available vs. the required 10xD upstream and 5xD downstream.
Bluetooth signal transmission was a challenge, and poor connectivity required two
persons for the startup of the meter (at the meter and from the control room) and
to double-check the actual readings of the unit.
Solution
A Panametrics Transport PT900 clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter
demonstration was offered. The installation and start-up went
smoothly and the flowmeter operated flawlessly.
The Panametrics team proved that the powerful ultrasonic
signal could perform despite the difficult environment
and the pipe material. The flow measurements exhibited
consistent and stable readings with good repeatability,
despite the short available straight length, and matched the
customer’s expectations.
The Bluetooth connectivity meant only one person was
required for the full start-up process, even with the Transport
PT900 tablet situated around 40 meters from the transmitter
with a lot of obstacles in-between. There was a strong signal
inside and outside the pipe!
The data logging capabilities were also deeply appreciated
by the customer and Panametrics technology is now
operational on the vessel and helping to keep the engines
running at optimal temperatures.
Indeed, one particular member of the customer team, was so
impressed with the accuracy and reliability of the PT900 that
he purchased two units for his own usage.