TPi July 2010

Fi t t ings Close-coupled manifold system simplifies process level measurement applications

A new, highly integrated manifold concept offers users a simpler means of installing level measurement instrumentation to process tanks and vessels. Two single-piece manifolds integrate all of the valves and features required for connecting the upper and lower pressure sensing points to a differential pressure transmitter. The approach eliminates weight, size and potential leak paths compared with conventional ‘hook-ups’ fabricated using discrete valves and tubing connections. The solution has been developed by the instrumentation products division of Parker Hannifin. Called CCIMS Level-Flange, the new solution consists of two manifolds. One provides a single-piece solution for the lower or ‘wet leg’ pressure connection at the bottom of a tank. This has a flange at one side for connection to the tank, double-block-and-bleed valves in a monoflange style, a mounting point for a differential process transmitter, and tube connections for the balance line connection to the second sensing point. The second manifold provides an integrated solution for the upper or ‘dry leg’ pressure sensing point, with a flange connection, block-and-bleed valves and balance line connections. The intimate nature of the piping connection provided by CCIMS Level- Flange aids the fundamental perfor- mance of the instrument system. Traditional hook-ups typically involve

longer flow paths, bends and sometimes changes in bore size. These can introduce pressure drops that can decrease measurement accuracy, commonly referred to as ‘gauge-line error’. CCIMS Level-Flange provides a short, straight and even flow connection, allowing end- users to benefit fully from the instrument’s accuracy to monitor process levels. The close-coupled design ensures that the differential pressure instrument is mounted directly adjacent to the process vessel, helping to avoid the common problem of blockages that can be caused by factors such as viscous media, hydrate formation and freezing. The weight and size of the integrated manifolds is also reduced compared with other solutions. A complete assembly with instrument only extends around 26.3cm (10.4") from the tank, which can be as little as half that of some other hook-ups. This eliminates any need for supporting metalwork, and reduces the likelihood of clashing with any nearby pipework. The integrated nature of the manifolds also means that numerous joints are eliminated, each of which is a potential leak path, helping to avoid both human and environmental safety issues caused by leakages or emissions. Installation time is a further advantage of Parker’s new solution. By replacing hand-crafted assemblies of discrete tubing, joint and valve components

Parker Hannifin’s new manifold provides a simpler means of installing level measurement instrumentation to process tanks and vessels

that can take many hours to assemble, CCIMS Level-Flange is expected to reduce the installation time and cost of differential pressure transmitter level measurement systems.

Parker Hannifin – UK ipd@parker.com

Stainless steel fittings for fluid-line and low pressure applications

Truly Tubular offers Braz-Tyte, a line of stainless steel ‘sweat’ fittings for fluid-line applications, and Hoz-Tyte, for low pressure applications where a rigid metal connection to non-metallic flexible hose is required. Braz-Tyte fittings are wrought from thin-wall Type 316L stainless steel tubing, providing a product that is light in weight with a smooth interior for increased capacity and flow. They offer an alternative to heavy machined fittings

and can be joined by soldering, brazing or welding.

are generally available from factory stock in reasonable quantities.

Hoz-Tyte fittings are also fabricated from thin-wall Type 316L stainless steel tubing, and utilise a hose configuration in accordance with specification AS5131/ SAE J1231 Type II. Both products provide corrosion resistance with minimum bulk and weight, as well as high strength, in ¼" to 1½" tube OD sizes. The standard bend radii for all elbows is 1½ times the tube outside diameter. Standard fittings

The fittings lend themselves to industrial applications in the beverage, chemical, food, marine, medical, photography, refrigeration and pressure piping industries. Truly Tubular Fitting Corporation – USA covtub@aol.com www.trulytubular.com

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Tube Products International July 2010

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