Application note

Steam measurement at Formosa Chemicals andFibre Corporation (FCFC-Plastics) Taiwan
Benefits:• Large turndown ratio to cover
low to high flow
• Bi-directional flow capability thru
the same meter

Summary
FCFC Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Resin (ABS Resin) plant in Hsin Kang, Taiwan,
was looking after an online steam measurement solution for its utility line whichfeatured some unique characteristics.

• Strong reputation in steam flow
measurement

FCFC Plastics has four boilers at this facility used to produce steam. Recognizing
an opportunity to improve efficiency and better harness steam generation thecustomer wanted to implement technology to measure steam flow.

• Proven reliability built fromprevious projects

Application• Strong local support

Process details:
Media: 		

Superheated steam at normal conditions

Flow: 		

-40 t/hr to +40 t/hr (bi-directional flow)

Pressure:

Normal at 18 barg (261 psig)

Temperature:

From 215°C to 235°C (419°F to 455°F)

Pipe material:

Carbon steel

Pipe size:8” (DN200)

Challenge
FCFC decided to use boiler #1 as a pilot given that the steam generated is used fordifferent purposes and therefore flows in both directions in the selected line.
Aside from the need for bi-directional flow, a serious challenge on its own, FCFC
required the ability to measure at low flow – down to 1 ton/hr – up to high flow – 40
ton/hr. The application was also a challenge given there was insufficient available
straight runs for the bi-directional measurement on either side of the meter. These
three requirements ruled out several other technologies.
In selecting a solution FCFC also sought reassurances around accuracy, reliability,commissioning and service support capabilities.

The solution
FCFC Plastics engaged with several suppliers to evaluate
the technical proposals. However, in partnership withPanametrics, the customer selected the XGS868i single pathwith T5 transducers.
One meter was mounted on a butt welded customized
flowcell with flow conditioners also butt welded to ensure
optimal performance. The transducers were positioned at anangle from the horizontal axis because of adjacent pipes.
FCFC Plastics are very happy with the solution. From working
blindly, the customer is now able to better monitor andcontrol steam usage enabling them to tackle multiple
challenges and achieve efficiencies.
The customer is now in discussions with Panametrics toapply the same solution to the remaining three boilers.

Panametrics, a Baker Hughes business, provides solutions in the toughest
applications and environments for moisture, oxygen, liquid and gas flow
measurement.
Experts in flare management, Panametrics technology also reduces flareemissions and optimizes performance.
With a reach that extends across the globe, Panametrics’ criticalmeasurement solutions and flare emissions management are enablingcustomers to drive efficiency and achieve carbon reduction targets acrosscritical industries including: Oil & Gas; Energy; Healthcare; Water andWastewater; Chemical Processing; Food & Beverage and many others.
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BHCS39052		(04/2023)

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