Online Viscometer Takes the Heat and the Pressure

The XL7-HT series of in-line viscometers from Hydramotion Ltd (UK) have been developed specifically for continuous real-time viscosity measurement under conditions of extreme high pressure and high temperature (XHPHT) with the demanding applications of the oil industry very much in mind.

Ideal for the monitoring of drilling or fracturing fluid viscosity at the wellhead, the XL7 viscometer can measure any viscosity range at temperatures up to 400°C in pipes of any diameter or tanks of any capacity. The sensor is a single solid probe whose unique architecture imposes no real limit on pressure. The ability to withstand harsh measurement conditions makes the XL7 the instrument of choice for a great many applications. XL7 viscometers have been supplied to a leading oilfield services provider for the measurement of heavy crude at 5000 psi and 100°C (345 bar at 212°F). The company’s XL7-900-d15 model viscometer is rated up to 20,000 psi (1380 bar), and even higher ratings are possible. Unlike many other instruments, the XL7 viscometer is unaffected by plant noise or vibration, flow rate, or the presence of “slugs” of air or gas.

“We have a lot of industry experience,” comments Danny Morbey, Product Manager at Hydramotion. “Our instruments are used in many of the world’s oilfields and oil refineries for the measurement of many products, from quench oil to heavy distillates. The XL7 is also used in all aspects of fuel oil handling, for example during transportation, blending, or to control viscosity during burning.”
Every XL7 is available as an Intrinsically Safe version to EEx 'ia' IIC T6 and carries certificates for ATEX II 1G, CENELEC and TIIS, allowing transducers to be operated even in the most hazardous (Zone 0) environments (Div1 Class 1 Group A in North America). Customised instruments have also been supplied for High Pressure Cell (HPC) measurements in the laboratory. “With our technology we can design a system for any application,” says Morbey. “We have many years’ experience of designing sensors to suit very specific requirements.”

Eminently practical, Hydramotion viscometers are “fit and forget” devices, engineered for simple installation, long-term reliability and unrivalled ease of use. When hooked up to a temperature sensor, the XL7 can display either “live” viscosity or viscosity corrected to a reference temperature. It can be supplied with any process fitting: while flanged, threaded or clamp connectors are typical, custom fittings can be provided where required. Fully calibrated in the company’s own temperature-controlled manufacturing facility, the instruments need no on-site calibration. In addition, there are no moving parts to wear out or fail in service, so maintenance is virtually nil.