A Tool For Any Size BusinessThe inventory management tool, Saab TankRadar REX, measures levels in real time at an accuracy of +0.5 mm The gauge provides exact data when oil products are bought or sold at refineries and tank terminals, which means that it can be used for custody transfer. The distance is measured using advanced radar technology (FMCW). Saab TankRadar REX emulates the most common mechanical level gauges, and can be integrated in tank plants where non-Saab gauges are used. Clients can subsequently upgrade their level gauging equipment in stages.
Saab TankRadar REX is flexible, with inputs for temperature and pressure connected directly to the radar level gauge. The data processing capacity has been enhanced in comparison to the system's forerunner, the Saab TankRadar L/2, and includes several new software functions. "It has been a challenge improving what is already the world's best radar-based level gauge. Clients can considerably enhance their performance at a lower system cost," comments Lennart Hagg, Technical Manager at Saab Tank Control. The radar level gauge is prepared for future connection to the standardized field buses: ProfiBus and FieldBus. Field bus communication can be replaced with a radio modem, which has its own power supply, for wireless communication to the control room. It does not require any additional connection units, and up to six temperature sensors can be connected directly to the radar level gauge, which lowers the cost of installation. In addition, Saab TankRadar REX is specially designed for a cost-efficient hybrid system solution, since a separate field computer is not required. The tank's strapping table can be programmed directly to the radar level gauge. Via HART communication, pressure gauges can be connected directly to the radar gauge for input to local calculations of density, volume and mass in the gauge. The powerful software for advanced digital signal processing and communication deals with measured values rapidly and reliably. Thanks to a series of state-of-the-art logic and memory functions, it eliminates the effect of disturbing echoes within the tank. The tank itself is mapped so thoroughly by FFT algorithms that it is possible to obtain accurate measurements all the way down to the bottom of the tank, a feature which is of particular importance at tank terminal. Saab TankRadar REX is easily installed on existing flanges, or manholes, when the tank is in operation. The radar level gauge has no moving parts and is not in physical contact with the stored liquid. The only exposed component inside the tank is the antenna, which means that very little maintenance is needed. Saab Tank Control's new, patented 440 mm parabolic antenna transmits a concentrated radar signal, which gives a strong echo and a reliable reading. The antenna also functions reliably in tanks containing liquids with low reflection, such as agitated aromatic hydrocarbons. It has a drip-off function to avoid condensation and contamination in compliance with API chapter 3.1B. In addition, Saab TankRadar REX produces accurate readings even in the close-up zone and the beam is easy to direct. The radar level gauge can therefore be installed very close to the tank wall. |