NIR Spectrometer Crude Oil Analysis Homogenization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for analyzing the properties of non-homogeneous petroleum hydrocarbon samples, such as crude oil and heavy oils, are limited by manual sampling and laboratory-based distillation processes, which are time-consuming and inadequate for real-time process optimization, and existing multivariate analysis technologies like NIR spectroscopy face challenges due to autoabsorption and scattering issues from asphaltene particles.
Innovation Solution
An off-line apparatus utilizing a near-infrared spectrometer system with a sampling unit, temperature control module, homogenization module, flow control module, and optical transmission cell, which continuously delivers and maintains sample homogeneity, and employs multivariate measurement technologies to generate accurate property predictions by processing the response matrix from the spectrometer data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual sampling and laboratory distillation methods are used, then measurement accuracy can be maintained, but analysis time and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sampling and laboratory distillation procedures with automated optical measurement systems. NIR spectrometers and multivariate analysis algorithms automatically determine properties like distillation curves, replacing time-consuming manual methods while maintaining or improving accuracy through consistent, repeatable measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multivariate calibration models and chemical计量 methods as intermediaries between the NIR spectral data and the desired property values. These models translate complex spectral information into accurate predictions of distillation properties, enabling rapid analysis without manual intervention.
2Device complexity
If discrete univariate analyzers are used, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but information content and ability to characterize complex mixtures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs NIR spectrometers that simultaneously provide multiple wavelengths of information, enabling characterization of numerous mixture properties including distillation curves, composition ranges, and quality parameters from a single measurement. This multi-functional approach replaces multiple discrete analyzers while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the approach from measuring single properties at a time to capturing comprehensive spectral data across multiple wavelengths, then using multivariate analysis to extract multiple property parameters simultaneously. This parameter transformation enables full mixture characterization without increasing device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If conventional laboratory distillation methods are used, then property measurement accuracy is maintained, but automation level and productivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical distillation processes with optical spectroscopy and computational analysis. NIR spectrometers rapidly capture spectral fingerprints of crude oil samples, and multivariate models instantly predict distillation properties, eliminating the need for time-consuming laboratory distillation while maintaining accuracy through validated calibration methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous sampling and analysis operations where crude oil properties are measured in real-time as samples flow through the system. Multiple samples can be processed sequentially without interruption, providing continuous data streams for process optimization rather than discrete batch measurements.
4Reliability
If manual sampling procedures are used, then sample representativeness can be controlled, but frequency of measurement and ability to detect process changes is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated sampling systems that independently draw, prepare, and analyze crude oil samples without manual intervention. The system self-regulates sampling frequency, maintains sample integrity through controlled handling, and continuously provides measurement data, enabling both high representativeness and high measurement frequency simultaneously.
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
Enables efficient, accurate, and real-time determination of properties in high viscosity, inhomogeneous liquid hydrocarbon mixtures, overcoming the limitations of manual sampling and scattering issues, thereby supporting rapid decision-making in petroleum refining processes.
Implementation Method 1
transmit and receive radiation to and from the transmission cell... A spectrometer is communicably coupled to the transmission cell to transmit and receive radiation to and from the transmission cell
Implementation Method 2
A temperature control module is configured to maintain the sample volume at a predetermined setpoint temperature
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus is provided for off-line concentration determination of components liquid hydrocarbon mixtures such as crude or heavy oil. A sampling unit (112) continuously delivers a sample volume to a fluid flow path while a temperature control module (114) maintains the sample at a predetermined setpoint temperature. A homogenization module (116) helps prevent sample stratification while a flow control module (118) maintain a constant sample flow rate. A spectrometer (124) is communicably coupled to an optical transmission cell (120) to transmit and receive radiation. The transmission cell includes collection optics to capture and aggregate non-collimated radiation emerging from the cell, for transmission to the spectrometer. The spectrometer measures sample spectra at a predetermined rate of flow of the sample volume through the transmission cell. A processor (130) is configured to capture and use the spectra in combination with a model of spectra for the hydrocarbon mixture.