Metering Function

Refinery hydrogen networks distribute hydrogen to multiple process units requiring accurate measurement for allocation, consumption monitoring, and hydrogen balance management. Metering skids measure volumetric or mass flow with compensation for pressure, temperature, and purity calculating actual hydrogen consumption. Typical accuracy ±1-2% supports operational and cost accounting requirements.

System Components

Complete skids include thermal mass, Coriolis, or differential pressure flow meters, hydrogen purity analyzer measuring H₂ content, pressure and temperature transmitters for compensation, flow computer calculating standard volumes, totalizer displaying cumulative consumption, isolation valves, and instrumentation panel. Factory-assembled packages minimize field installation.

Meter Technology

Thermal mass meters measure directly without pressure/temperature compensation ideal for hydrogen service. Coriolis meters provide mass flow measurement with high accuracy. Differential pressure devices offer proven economical measurement. ERGIL selects technology based on flow range typically 1,000-100,000 SCFH, purity variations, and accuracy requirements.

Purity Compensation

Hydrogen purity varies from 70-99% depending on source and reformer operation. Purity analyzers using thermal conductivity measure actual H₂ content. Flow computers apply purity correction calculating net hydrogen consumption excluding diluents. This ensures accurate allocation when multiple hydrogen sources with different purities serve common networks.

Applications

Refinery hydrocracker hydrogen supply monitoring, diesel hydrotreater consumption tracking, naphtha hydrotreater metering, hydrogen plant distribution allocation, and any hydroprocessing application requiring flow measurement. Serves flow rates across light to heavy feedstock operations requiring hydrogen management.

Control Integration

Flow data integration with process control systems enables hydrogen balance monitoring. Consumption tracking supports catalyst performance evaluation. Totalizers provide data for allocation and cost recovery. Remote monitoring via SCADA systems enables real-time hydrogen management across refinery operations.

Material Selection

Stainless steel construction suitable for high-purity hydrogen service. Materials resistant to hydrogen embrittlement per API 941. Design accommodates operating pressures typically 200-2000 psig. Temperature ratings for ambient to elevated conditions depending on process location.

Performance Benefits

Accurate consumption data enables cost allocation between users. Hydrogen balance tracking identifies losses and optimization opportunities. Purity compensation ensures fair allocation from mixed-quality sources. Reliable measurement with minimal maintenance. Proven technology for hydrogen service.

Construction Standards

Design per ASME B31.3 with materials suitable for hydrogen service. Electrical systems rated for hazardous Class I Division 2 areas. Proper meter installation meeting manufacturer straight pipe requirements. Complete documentation with calibration certificates and performance specifications.

Operational Advantages

Real-time visibility supports hydrogen system optimization. Accurate allocation improves cost management across process units. Simple operation with automated compensation calculations. Integration with refinery hydrogen management systems. Low maintenance with appropriate meter selection for clean hydrogen service.

ERGIL hydrogen metering skids deliver dependable flow measurement enabling effective hydrogen management and cost allocation in refinery hydroprocessing operations.