| Abstract Title: | Density Measurement with an Oscillating U-tube Density Meter - Versatile Applications and Different Capabilities in the Petroleum Industry |
| Abstract Type: | Oral |
| Session Choice: | Standards & Quality Assurance |
| Presenter Name: | Dr Jelena Fischer |
| Co-authors: | Mrs Julia Sattler Mr Siegfried Hold Dr Hans Hahn Dr Barbara Klug-Santner |
| Company/Organisation: | Anton-Paar GmbH |
| Country: | Austria |
Abstract Information :
From handheld to lab, from onsite to offshore, from upstream to downstream- these are some
of the examples density meters with an oscillating U-tube are used. In all these fields the
petroleum products have to comply with standards.
Density measurement based on the oscillating U-tube principle was invented in 1967, 50 years
ago. Since then the density measurement and the determination of concentration of liquids and
gases was revolutionized by this technique. Furthermore the diversity of oscillating U-tube
density meters has increased tremendously: from handheld to benchtop density meters and
from mobile to high-pressure and high temperature density meters- these are the different
models for different applications. The main advantages compared to other methods (e.g.
pycnometer, hydrometer) are excellent accuracy, short measurement time and small sample
volume. Density meters are used in many different industries and applications such as food,
chemical, petroleum etc.
In the presentation the basic principle of the oscillating U-tube is discussed and the advantages
compared to classic density methods like pycnometer and hydrometer are highlighted. The
advantage of measuring petroleum samples directly at the tank by using an Ex-proof handheld
instrument is accentuated. The importance of measuring density at different stages of the
refining process in compliance with standards is demonstrated on the basis of practical
application examples e.g., the measurement of crude oil, the measurement of fuels and lubes
and the measurement of bitumen.
