Endress+Hauser FLOWSIC900 Ultrasonic LNG Flowmeter

The Endress+Hauser FLOWSIC900 is a high-performance ultrasonic LNG flowmeter specifically developed for custody transfer measurement of liquefied natural gas (LNG). It is designed for demanding LNG applications where accurate volume measurement, low measurement uncertainty and reliable long-term operation are essential for commercial LNG transactions.

Using the ultrasonic transit-time difference measurement principle, FLOWSIC900 measures actual volume, actual volumetric flow, fluid velocity and speed of sound. Its ultrasonic technology provides reliable measurement without mechanical moving parts, making it particularly suitable for LNG transfer systems where measurement reliability and low maintenance are important.

Accurate LNG Custody Transfer Measurement

FLOWSIC900 is designed specifically for custody transfer LNG measurement and complies with high metrological requirements. It conforms to OIML R117 Class 0.3 and API MPMS Chapter 5.8, supporting accurate and transparent measurement at the point of LNG transfer. After flow calibration and adjustment, the typical accuracy is ≤ ±0.2% of reading, with repeatability of ≤ ±0.05% of the measured value.

By reducing measurement uncertainty directly at the custody transfer point, FLOWSIC900 can help minimize financial risks associated with LNG transactions and provide reliable measurement data for commercial transfer and billing.

Ultrasonic Measurement for LNG Applications

LNG measurement presents specific challenges because liquefied natural gas operates at cryogenic temperatures and requires specialized flow measurement technology. FLOWSIC900 is specifically tailored to the requirements of the LNG industry, with an operating temperature range extending from -200 °C to +60 °C according to the current product documentation.

The meter is available in nominal pipe sizes from DN200 to DN900 (8 to 36 inches), with other sizes available on request. Its operating pressure range is 0 to 19 bar(g).

Full-Bore Design with Low Pressure Loss

The full-bore design of FLOWSIC900 eliminates the need for a flow conditioner and minimizes additional pressure drop. This is particularly valuable in LNG transfer systems, where maintaining efficient product transfer and minimizing energy losses are important.

The reduced pressure loss can also contribute to lower operational expenditure and help reduce boil-off gas losses during LNG transfer.

Real-Time Measurement and Diagnostics

FLOWSIC900 provides real-time measurement and diagnostics, helping operators monitor the flowmeter and LNG transfer process continuously. The system can be accessed and checked through the remote Signal Processing Unit (SPU) and FLOWgate™ software, simplifying commissioning, service and regular measurement verification.

The instrument uses intrinsically safe ultrasonic transducers and is available with hazardous-area approvals including IECEx and North American certifications, making it suitable for LNG facilities where explosion protection is required.

Factory Thermal Pre-Insulation

FLOWSIC900 features factory thermal pre-insulation, helping simplify installation and integration into LNG metering systems. Combined with its compact design and remote signal processing, this can reduce installation complexity and support faster commissioning.

Typical LNG Applications

The Endress+Hauser FLOWSIC900 is suitable for:

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  LNG custody transfer measurement
  
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  LNG loading and unloading
  
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  LNG liquefaction plants
  
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  LNG transport systems
  
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  LNG storage facilities
  
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  Onshore LNG terminals
  
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  Offshore LNG facilities
  
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  LNG transfer and metering stations
  
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  Commercial LNG volume measurement
  

The product is specifically intended for liquefied natural gas measurement and is part of Endress+Hauser's high-end ultrasonic flow measurement portfolio for LNG plants.

Key Features

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  Custody transfer ultrasonic LNG flowmeter
  
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  Designed specifically for LNG measurement
  
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  Ultrasonic transit-time difference technology
  
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  OIML R117 Class 0.3
  
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  API MPMS Chapter 5.8
  
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  Accuracy up to ±0.2% of reading after calibration and adjustment
  
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  Repeatability ≤ ±0.05%
  
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  DN200–DN900 / 8–36"
  
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  Operating pressure up to 19 bar(g)
  
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  Cryogenic operating temperature down to -200 °C
  
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  Full-bore design with minimized pressure drop
  
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  No flow conditioner required
  
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  Factory thermal pre-insulation
  
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  Real-time measurement and diagnostics
  
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  Remote Signal Processing Unit
  
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  FLOWgate™ software
  
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  Intrinsically safe ultrasonic transducers