Conductivity measurement in paraffin
Managing electrostatic charging in the handling of petroleum products, especially those with low electrical conductivity such as paraffin, is a key factor in ensuring smooth operations and safety in the industry.
When handling petroleum products with low electrical conductivity, such as paraffin, high electrostatic charging can occur. To prevent the risk of ignition or explosion when discharged by sparks, the conductivity must be increased by additives. Reliable conductivity measurement is therefore necessary.
MBA conductivity meters are a crucial part of our efforts to ensure safety and efficiency in the handling of petroleum products. These sophisticated measuring devices are specifically designed to accurately and reliably measure the conductivity of paraffin and other products.
Continuous conductivity measurement in petroleum
MBA Instruments is your expert for all aspects of continuous conductivity measurement in light oils. By measuring the electrical conductivity value in paraffin with our measuring instruments, airports can improve the safety of fuel transport and reduce the use of additives.
principle of measurement
conductivity measurement in paraffin
The probe body used for conductivity measurements consists of a core electrode and a sheathed electrode at its end. Depending on the device version, the sheath electrode is provided with inlet and outlet holes of different sizes so that the paraffin to be measured can pass quickly between the two electrodes. A precisely regulated DC voltage is applied to the electrodes. The fuel between the electrodes transports the electric current from one electrode to the other. The ability of the paraffin to transport electrical charges is a measure of the conductivity of the fuel. A resistor is used for the basic calibration of the devices, as the conductivity value is physically the inverse of the resistance value.
Paraffin is transferred via pipelines on its way from the refinery via the tank farm to the airport; rolling or hydraulic fluids flow via ring lines through pumps and filters to the storage tank. As these oils have low conductivity, the risk of electrostatic charging is very high. To avoid static charges and sparks caused by spontaneous discharges, which can trigger an explosion, additives are added to the paraffin to increase conductivity.
Measuring electrical conductivity is a prerequisite for the high safety regulations when handling light mineral oils such as paraffin. Only by knowing the exact electrical conductivity can it be decided whether the medium can be pumped safely. If the electrical conductivity is too low, an electrostatic charge is generated and a discharge occurs, which can become a dangerous source of ignition due to sparking.
Paraffin in aviation
Paraffin is a liquid fuel consisting primarily of hydrocarbons. The fuel is mainly used in commercial aviation to power the turbines of aeroplanes and helicopters. Paraffin is also a component of diesel fuels. Essentially, the fuel is obtained from crude oil in oil refineries by distillation. Crude oil is heated and divided into different fractions based on their different boiling points.
After distillation, the paraffin obtained is further processed to ensure that it meets the high quality standards for use in aviation and transport. This includes removing impurities and adapting the composition to the special requirements of turbines and diesel engines.
Fuel depot
Light mineral oils, e.g. paraffin or solvents, usually travel through pipelines on their way from the refinery via tank farms to their final destination. As mineral oils such as these have low conductivity, the risk of electrostatic charging is very high. This can result in material damage to the pipelines and, in the worst case, there is a risk of explosions. A functioning and reliable conductivity monitoring system is correspondingly important.
Aluminium rolling mills
Filters are used in rolling mills to clean the oil, but this also contributes to a reduction in conductivity. Oil circulation systems are susceptible to electrostatic charging due to friction caused by the oil. If the electrical charge in an oil circulation system increases and eventually becomes too great, an electrostatic discharge takes place, which poses a potential explosion hazard with flammable liquids. Measuring the conductivity of the oil helps to prevent damage to the tank.
Paint production
Solvents and paints have low conductivity, so the risk of electrostatic charging is very high. This can result in material damage to the pipes and, in the worst case, there is a risk of explosions. Accurate and reliable conductivity measurement is therefore essential. At MBA, we understand the essential role of conductivity measurement in the handling of light mineral oils, including solvents and paints. We offer solutions that ensure the safety and efficiency of your processes.