Metering Function

LPG custody transfer requires accurate liquid measurement for commercial transactions between producers, terminals, distributors, and consumers. Metering skids measure volumetric flow with temperature correction to standard conditions typically 15°C or 60°F. Accuracy ±0.25-0.5% meets API MPMS, OIML, and national custody transfer standards for fiscal metering.

System Components

Complete skids include positive displacement or turbine flow meters, temperature transmitters for volume correction, vapor eliminator preventing gas entrainment, flow computer calculating net standard volumes, meter proving connections for field verification, air eliminator and strainer, automatic control valves, printer for loading tickets, and instrumentation panel. Factory-assembled packages minimize installation time.

Meter Technology

Positive displacement meters provide high accuracy for LPG service handling varying flow rates. Turbine meters offer proven performance with wide turndown. Mass flow meters eliminate temperature compensation requirements. ERGIL selects technology based on application requirements, flow range typically 50-2000 GPM, and proving capabilities.

Vapor Management

LPG volatility requires vapor elimination maintaining single-phase liquid flow for accurate measurement. Vapor eliminators separate entrained gas preventing meter errors. Back-pressure control maintains pressure above vapor pressure typically 100-200 psig. Proper vapor handling ensures measurement reliability meeting custody transfer standards.

Applications

LPG terminal truck and railcar loading, pipeline custody transfer stations, propane distribution terminals, petrochemical feedstock metering, and retail propane dispensing. Serves producers, midstream operators, distributors, and industrial consumers requiring accurate fiscal measurement of propane, butane, or mixed LPG products.

Proving Capability

Meter proving using portable or stationary provers verifies accuracy for custody transfer. Proving establishes meter factors typically annually or after maintenance. Proving reports document measurement performance supporting commercial validation. Bi-directional proving accommodates loading and unloading operations.

Control Systems

Flow computers calculate temperature-corrected volumes, apply meter factors, generate batch totals, and print loading tickets. Preset controls stop loading at target volumes. Integration with terminal automation systems enables remote monitoring and inventory management. Data storage supports reconciliation and regulatory reporting.

Material Selection

Carbon steel or stainless steel construction suitable for LPG service. Materials rated for operating pressures 150-300 psig and temperatures -40°C to 50°C. Proper gaskets and seals for propane/butane compatibility. Design per ASME B31.3 with appropriate pressure ratings.

Safety Features

Emergency shutdown valves provide rapid isolation. Pressure relief protection against overpressure. Grounding connections prevent static accumulation. Leak detection integration. Installation per NFPA 58/59 LPG codes. Explosion-proof electrical systems for hazardous classification.

Construction Standards

Systems per API MPMS custody transfer requirements. Meter runs with proper installation standards. Proving per API Chapter 4. Complete documentation with calibration certificates, proving baseline, and weights and measures approval.

ERGIL LPG metering skids deliver accurate reliable measurement ensuring fair commercial transactions in propane and butane custody transfer operations.