Tailored measuring solutions in the oil & gas downstream industry

We have been safely using radiometric measurement principles for 70 years. With our proven technology and years of experience working in the oil and gas downstream industry, we can develop a solution that is right for you and your process. Berthold is here to help assist refiners to safely and reliably control the most difficult measurement applications so they can maximize their margins by increased rates through the units, increased the unit operational reliability by reducing unplanned shutdowns and reduced maintenance cost.

State of the art technology

  • Outside mounting of components
  • Not exposed to the harsh process conditions
  • Free of wear and maintenance
  • Smooth handling and operation
  • Lowest cost of ownership
  • Easy to install on existing pipes or tanks without modifications
  • Perfect for all high temperature and high pressure applications
  • No process connection therfore no risk of hazarous material leaks

Leading measurement technology for the oil & gas industry

What we can do for you and your oil & gas downstream industry

Berthold is renowned for cutting-edge technology and high-class products. Our density and level measuring systems are characterized by high sensitivity and outstanding measurement stability enabling long-lasting operation with low operational costs since maintenance or frequent re-calibration is not required. Unique features such as X-ray interference protection (XIP), lead to superior measurement performance and high reliability, which remain stable and unfailing throughout the whole time of operation.
Beside a wide range of standard products for level and density measurements, Berthold develops tailor-made systems for refinery processes in close cooperation with customers and licensors worldwide – Berthold is the global leader in radiometric technology applying extensive experience and knowledge into solving complex measurements, designed meticulously according to customer specifications.

Multiphase level measurement in refineries

One application that is not normally considered critical is the interface level in the desalter.  Every drop of oil that is refined, passes through the desalter.  With refiners trying to maximize their margins, they turn to the use of opportunity crudes, which can cause issues with the proper operation of the desalter.  Maintaining proper level control helps ensure proper removal of salts and minerals that can cause corrosion issues with downstream equipment. Most technologies have the capability to measure a clean interface when separation is good but when opportunity crudes are used the interface level doesn’t tend to be clean, instead a gradient change in density from oil to water.  Other technologies can show errors in the interface level reading since there is basically no distinct level. This can cause issues with either allowing the level to be too high or too low.  When operating too low hydrocarbons can leave with brine water to the waste water treatment cause environmental issues and/or possible fines.  If the level is too high, the amount of water is too high and can cause the electrostatic girds to short out causing improper removal of salts and minerals.  Using the Multiphase Level Measurement - EmulsionSENS system from Berthold, not only can you use the EmulsionSENS to control the water/brine level but also can use it to track this gradient change in density and ensure the upper phase doesn’t get too high, therefore preventing shorting of the electric grids.

Measuring tower bottom levels in the oil and gas industry

Measuring tower bottom levels in various operating units can routinely be done with the use of differential pressure (DP) level transmitter, but the use of radiometric levels can be used to increase the reliability of the tower. Since the radiometric devices are non-intrusive, they are not affected by bottoms tending to cause buildups and coatings inside the vessel. This buildup and/or coatings can cause the DP level to read too low, therefore potentially allowing the pumps to cavitate and damage pump seals or could allow the level to get too high and flood trays in the column that can cause issues with product and potentially cause damage to the trays. The use of Radiometer can be used to minimize maintenance time spent by technicians “pumping down” differential pressure levels to ensure pressure ports are free from buildup.