Steam Flow Measurement on a Heating Distribution Hub
Background
A heating distribution hub required accurate measurement of saturated steam consumption to improve plant monitoring and provide reliable usage data for the site’s Building Management System (BMS). To achieve this, a Siemens SITRANS FX330 Intelligent Mass Flow Vortex Meter was selected for its ability to deliver accurate and dependable steam flow measurement in demanding industrial applications.
Challenge
Measuring saturated steam presented several challenges. Obtaining accurate process data during the survey and design stages proved difficult due to the nature of the application and the existing plant configuration. In addition, the installation required careful coordination to minimise disruption while ensuring the new instrumentation could be seamlessly integrated into the site’s existing infrastructure.
Solution
The project team installed the Siemens SITRANS FX330 mass flow vortex meter on the heating distribution hub, providing a robust solution for saturated steam flow measurement.
The installation included:
- Pipework modifications and valve installations completed by Clarke Welding Services Limited.
- Close collaboration with the site’s engineering team, with valuable support from James McMahon during the data collection and planning stages.
- Installation, commissioning, and configuration by Aaron Tebbutt and David Read.
- Integration of the flow meter with the plant Building Management System using MODBUS communications, enabling real-time steam consumption monitoring and data reporting.
Result
The completed installation provides the site with accurate, reliable steam flow measurement and enhanced visibility of plant steam consumption. Through seamless MODBUS integration with the BMS, operators now have access to real-time data that supports improved energy management, system optimisation, and informed operational decision-making.
The success of the project was made possible through effective collaboration between the engineering, installation, and commissioning teams, delivering a solution that meets the customer’s operational and monitoring requirements.
