GE DigitalFlow™ GF868-1-2 – Ultrasonic Mass Flowmeter for Flare Gas (Dual-Channel)

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: GE Panametrics (Baker Hughes)
• Model: GF868-1-2 (DigitalFlow™ GF868, Dual-Channel)
• Application: Flare gas, hydrocarbon gas, and industrial emission gas measurement
• Measurement Technology: Patented Correlation Transit-Time™ ultrasonic method
• Channel Configuration: Dual-channel (2 independent ultrasonic measurement paths)
• Measured Parameters: Flow velocity, actual volumetric flow, standard volumetric flow, mass flow, average molecular weight
• Flow Velocity Range: 0.03 to 120 m/s (0.1 to 394 ft/s)
• Turn-Down Ratio: Up to 2750:1
• Gas Composition Support: Multi-component hydrocarbons, with compensation for N₂, CO₂, and inert gases
• Transducer Type: T5/T17 wetted ultrasonic transducers
• Transducer Temperature Range: -55°C to +150°C (standard); -220°C to +100°C (low-temp); up to +200°C (high-temp)
• Transducer Pressure Rating: -2 psig to 1500 psig (87.6 kPa to 10300 kPa)
• Transducer Materials: Titanium, Hastelloy®, or 316 SS (standard)
• Enclosure: Epoxy-coated aluminum (standard) or stainless steel; Type 4X/IP66 (weatherproof/explosionproof)
• Hazardous Area Certifications: Class I, Division 1/2; ATEX II 2G Ex d IIB+H2 T6; IECEx Ex d IIB+H2 T6
• Power Supply: 100–120 VAC, 50/60 Hz (optional 220–240 VAC)
• Outputs: 4 isolated 4–20 mA analog outputs; Modbus RTU/TCP digital communication
• Inputs: 2 isolated 4–20 mA inputs (for pressure/temperature transmitters)
• Operating Temperature (Electronics): -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
• Dimensions (H×W×D): 280 mm × 220 mm × 120 mm
• Weight: 5.5 kg (12.1 lbs)

Key Features

1. Dual-Channel Redundancy & High Reliability
   • Dual-channel design provides redundant measurement paths, ensuring continuous operation even if one channel fails.
   • Simultaneous data validation across two channels eliminates single-point measurement errors.
2. Patented Ultrasonic Measurement Technology
   • Correlation Transit-Time™ technology measures gas flow without dependence on thermal properties, unlike thermal mass flowmeters.
   • Immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI), vibration, and harsh industrial noise.
3. Real-Time Molecular Weight Calculation
   • Proprietary algorithm instantaneously calculates average molecular weight of multi-component flare gases.
   • Delivers accurate mass flow readings regardless of changes in gas composition.
4. No Moving Parts & Maintenance-Free Operation
   • No orifices, turbines, or sensors to wear, clog, or replace.
   • Eliminates routine maintenance, reducing operational costs and downtime.
5. Wide Flow Range & High Accuracy
   • Measures extremely low to high flow velocities (0.03–120 m/s) with exceptional linearity.
   • Maintains ±1% of reading accuracy across the entire operating range.
6. Comprehensive Diagnostics & Communication
   • On-board LED indicators and digital display for real-time status monitoring.
   • Supports Modbus communication for seamless integration with DCS/SCADA systems.
   • Daily self-calibration checks ensure long-term measurement stability.

Application Scenarios

1. Oil & Gas Industry (Primary Application)
   • Refineries: Flare gas monitoring, leak detection, and emission compliance reporting.
   • Offshore Platforms: Measurement of vented and flared hydrocarbon gases.
   • LNG Facilities: Low-temperature flare gas and boil-off gas (BOG) measurement.
2. Petrochemical & Chemical Plants
   • Monitoring of process vent gases, waste gas streams, and flare systems.
   • Energy conservation by optimizing steam injection into flare headers.
   • Compliance with environmental regulations for pollutant emissions.
3. Power Generation
   • Combined-cycle power plants: Flare gas measurement for gas turbine fuel systems.
   • Thermal power stations: Monitoring of auxiliary boiler and stack emissions.
4. Industrial Facilities
   • Steel mills, paper mills, and pharmaceutical plants: Flare and waste gas monitoring.
   • Large-scale manufacturing sites: Leak detection and energy loss prevention.