Hydrogen Loading Correction in Vibratory Flow Meters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vibratory meters, such as Coriolis flow meters, face errors in measurement due to hydrogen loading, which changes the material properties of the metal, specifically increasing the elastic modulus, leading to potential hydrogen-induced cracking and requiring recalibration.
Innovation Solution
A method to estimate hydrogen loading-induced changes in vibratory meters by determining the pressure and temperature of hydrogen exposed to the vibratory element, calculating the hydrogen concentration, and adjusting the calibration coefficients based on the calculated concentration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the vibratory meter is used in hydrogen-rich environments, then the measurement function is maintained, but hydrogen loading changes the material properties (elastic modulus) leading to measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by monitoring shifts in the elastic modulus of the vibratory element caused by hydrogen loading. The system detects changes in vibration frequency and damping characteristics, which are direct parameters affected by hydrogen diffusion into the metal lattice. By tracking these parameter changes, the system can identify when calibration is needed without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through continuous monitoring of the vibratory element's performance characteristics. The meter compares real-time measurement data against expected values, and when deviations indicate hydrogen loading effects, the system triggers a calibration alert. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures measurement reliability is maintained by promptly addressing hydrogen loading issues.
2Measurement precision
If manual recalibration is performed to correct hydrogen loading effects, then measurement accuracy is restored, but the process requires offline operation in hazardous environments increasing costs and risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service calibration through an automated system that monitors hydrogen loading effects and performs calibration adjustments without requiring manual intervention. The meter independently detects when calibration is needed based on changes in vibration characteristics and can automatically compensate for hydrogen loading effects, eliminating the need for operators to access hazardous environments for recalibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual calibration process with an electronic/automated system. Instead of requiring physical access to the vibratory meter for calibration adjustments, the system uses electronic sensors and processors to detect hydrogen loading effects and automatically adjust calibration parameters, substituting a dangerous mechanical operation with a safe automated electronic process.
3Strength
If hydrogen concentration in the metal lattice increases, then the elastic modulus increases improving strength, but hydrogen induced cracking occurs reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting early signs of hydrogen loading through changes in vibration frequency and damping before hydrogen induced cracking occurs. The system monitors the elastic modulus changes in real-time and alerts operators when hydrogen concentration reaches levels that may lead to cracking, allowing preventive action to be taken before structural failure occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides beforehand cushioning by implementing a monitoring and warning system that detects hydrogen loading effects before they cause catastrophic failure. The system tracks the accumulation of hydrogen in the metal lattice and provides advance warning, allowing operators to take preventive measures such as reducing hydrogen exposure or performing maintenance before cracking occurs.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for accurate estimation of hydrogen loading effects without the need for manual recalibration, minimizing costs and risks associated with offline calibration processes.
Implementation Method 1
Hydrogen is known to be able to diffuse into a metal lattice, such as, for example, steel lattice, under certain conditions. The diffusion of the hydrogen into the metal lattice can have a significant effect on material properties of the metal.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for estimating a hydrogen loading induced change in a vibratory meter is provided. The method comprises determining a pressure and a temperature of hydrogen exposed to a vibratory element of the vibratory meter. The method also comprises calculating, based on the pressure and the temperature of the hydrogen, a concentration of the hydrogen in the vibratory element and adjusting a calibration coefficient of the vibratory meter based on the calculated concentration of the hydrogen in the vibratory element.