A diaphragm seal system in vacuum pressure process must master a significant challenge ? it must deliver a reliable measuring result, even when the pressure drops and the temperature rises simultaneously. The example of a chemical company producing phthalic anhydride (PA) demonstrates it is in no way self-evident that requirement can be met on a frequent basis.
PA is primarily used as a plasticiser for plastics. However, additionally it is found in the production of synthetic resins and dyes. Simple obtains this compound via the catalytic oxidation of o-xylene in the gas phase, accompanied by vacuum pressure distillation process.
Critical phase for pressure measurement
In this technique, the critical phase for pressure measurement occurs in the distillation column. There, the process temperature can rise to more than 230 �C while the pressure drops to 100 mbar abs. With this type of contrary action, the traditional installed measurement technology reaches its performance limit relatively quickly, which the aforementioned manufacturer was forced to find out ? all instrumentation showed a measurement deviation beyond your defined tolerance after only week or two.
Diaphragm seal system adapted in every elements to the vacuum process
The diaphragm seal system is tailored exactly to the conditions of the vacuum process and tested under application conditions.
Consequently, the business approached WIKA with the obtain a measuring solution that would also fulfil its task with the required accuracy in the long term beneath the conditions described. WIKA then drew on its in-depth expertise to design a diaphragm seal system for the vacuum process, consisting of an activity transmitter (model IPT-20), a flange-type diaphragm seal with flush diaphragm (model 990.27) and a capillary.
All components of this measuring system were selected specifically for the application. Silicone oil KN32 was therefore selected because the fill fluid for pressure transmission. The cleaning and conditioning of the diaphragm seal, the capillary, the connection pieces as well as the automated filling process were also matched to one another exactly. With sensitive limit ranges, even one drop of liquid too much or inadequate can destabilise the volume balance of the diaphragm seal system and thus impair its function. Due to this fact, correct measurement would no longer be guaranteed.
Test under application conditions
After cleaning, all parts of the diaphragm seal system were first fully welded into a single unit as usual, followed by the filling and adjustment of the system. Before delivery, however, there is another crucial step ? in its laboratory, WIKA simulated a vacuum process for the diaphragm seal system relative to the client?s conditions and subjected it to a thermal ageing process. This test confirmed the process suitability of the measuring system.
Note
Further information on the WIKA diaphragm seal systems can be found on the WIKA website. In case you have any questions, your contact will gladly help you.
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How do diaphragm seals work?
Watch the next video for more information concerning the functionality, application areas and advantages of diaphragm seals: