A diaphragm seal system in a vacuum process must master a significant challenge ? it must deliver a reliable measuring result, even when the pressure drops and the temperature rises at the same time. The example of a chemical company producing phthalic anhydride (PA) implies that it is by no means self-evident that this requirement can be met on a frequent basis.
PA is primarily used as a plasticiser for plastics. However, additionally it is used in the production of synthetic resins and dyes. The plant operator obtains this compound via the catalytic oxidation of o-xylene in the gas phase, followed by a vacuum distillation process.
Critical phase for pressure measurement
In this technique, the critical phase for pressure measurement occurs in the distillation column. There, the procedure temperature can rise to more than 230 �C while the pressure drops to 100 mbar abs. With such a contrary action, the conventional installed measurement technology reaches its performance limit relatively quickly, that your aforementioned manufacturer was forced to find out ? all instrumentation showed a measurement deviation beyond your defined tolerance after only week or two.
Diaphragm seal system adapted in every elements to the vacuum process
The diaphragm seal system is tailored exactly to the conditions of the vacuum process and tested under application conditions.
Consequently, the business approached WIKA with the request for a measuring solution that would also fulfil its task with the required accuracy in the long run beneath the conditions described. WIKA then drew on its in-depth expertise to create a diaphragm seal system for the vacuum process, comprising a process transmitter (model IPT-20), a flange-type diaphragm seal with flush diaphragm (model 990.27) and a capillary.
All elements of this measuring system were selected specifically for the application form. Silicone oil KN32 was therefore selected because the fill fluid for pressure transmission. The cleaning and conditioning of the diaphragm seal, the capillary, the bond pieces plus the automated filling process were also matched to one another exactly. With sensitive limit ranges, even one drop of liquid too much or too little can destabilise the volume balance of the diaphragm seal system and therefore impair its function. Because of Buffoon , correct measurement would no longer be guaranteed.
Test under application conditions
After cleaning, all elements of the diaphragm seal system were first fully welded right into a single unit as usual, followed by the filling and adjustment of the machine. Before delivery, however, there is another crucial step ? in its laboratory, WIKA simulated vacuum pressure process for the diaphragm seal system relative to the client?s conditions and subjected it to a thermal ageing process. This test confirmed the procedure suitability of the measuring system.
Note
Further information on the WIKA diaphragm seal systems are available on the WIKA website. Assuming you have any questions, your contact will gladly assist you to.
Also read our posts
Diaphragm seals for stable flow measurement in deep seas
How do diaphragm seals work?
Watch the following video for more information about the functionality, application areas and advantages of diaphragm seals: