DigitalFlow™ GF868

Panametrics flare gas mass ultrasonic flowmeter

with extended performance range
Applications Features
The DigitalFlow GF868 flowmeter is a complete ultrasonic • Measures velocity, volumetric and mass flow
flow metering system for:
• Standard velocity range to 100 m/s (328 ft/s) standard
• Flare gas
• Extended velocity range to 120 m/s (394 ft/s)*
• T
 rack down or prevent losses from leakage with positive
• Measures instantaneous average molecular weight
material identification
• Measures Net Heating Value (NHV) of vent gas in BTU/SCF,
• Account for total plant throughput of material
MJ/m3, or KJ/m3
• Reduce cost of steam and fuel usage with
• Measures hydrocarbon gases
proportional control
• Self-calibration check assures accurate worry-free
• Conserve energy by eliminating unnecessary flaring
operation
• Comply with government regulations for pollution control
• Delivers accurate flow rate, independent of gas
• Vent gas composition
• Hydrocarbon gases • Measures very low to very high velocity,
4000 to 1 turndown ratio
• Biogases
• Field-proven installation techniques
• Digester gases
• Built-in totalizers
• Built-in power supply for pressure and temperature
transmitters
• 4000 to 1 turndown ratio
• One or two channel/path configurations

* Velocity maximum may be higher in specific installations - consult with Panametrics

Flare gas mass flowmeter mass flow rate. Temperature and pressure inputs enable the
meter to calculate standard volumetric flow. For maximum
The DigitalFlow GF868 ultrasonic flowmeter uses the
accuracy, use the two channel version and measure along
patented Correlation Transit-Time™ technique, digital
two different paths at the same location. The two-channel
signal processing, and an accurate method of calculating
meter can also measure the flow in two separate pipes or at
molecular weight. Add to these features the inherent
two different places on the same pipe.
advantages of ultrasonic flow measurement reliability with
no routine maintenance, high accuracy, fast response, and
wide rangeability, the DigitalFlow GF868 flowmeter is the
clear choice for flare gas applications.

Downstream
Correlation transit-time technology is ideal for transducer
flare gas flow measurement
Upstream Pressure
The correlation transit-time technique has distinct transducer transmitter
advantages over other methods of flare gas flow
Temperature
measurement, and it is used to solve a variety of difficult
transmitter
problems. Typically, gas in flare stacks, headers or laterals
is a mixture of components from different sources. Flow rate Digital analog
in flare systems may be unsteady or even bidirectional. and alarm
outputs Preamplifiers
Pulsating pressure, varying composition and temperature,
harsh environment, and wide flow range further complicate
the measurement. The GF868 is designed for superior
performance under these conditions. Typical meter set-up for standard volumetric or hydrocarbon mass flow

Patented molecular weight measurement method Simple installation

The DigitalFlow GF868 uses a patented method for The flowmeter system consists of a pair of transducers for
calculating the average molecular weight of hydrocarbon each channel, preamplifiers, and an electronics console. The
mixtures. This proprietary algorithm extends the range for transducers can be installed as part of a flowcell, or directly
measuring average molecular weight, while improving into the pipe with a hot or cold-tapping procedure. The
accuracy and compensating for non-hydrocarbon gases electronics console of the DigitalFlow GF868 meter can be
better than ever before possible. Higher accuracy mass flow located up to 1,000 ft (300 m) from the transducers.
data and more precise knowledge of flare gas composition
can improve the efficiency of plant operation, enabling
correct metering of steam injection at the flare tip, rapid
troubleshooting of leaks into the flare stream, early detection
of process control problems, and accurate plant balance.

Best technology for flare gas measurement

Ultrasonic flow measurement, the ideal technology for flare
gas applications, is independent of gas properties, and does
not interfere with the flow in any way. All-metal ultrasonic
transducers installed in the pipe send sound pulses
upstream and downstream through the gas.
From the difference in these transit times between the
transducers, with and against the flow, the DigitalFlow GF868’s
on-board computer uses advanced signal processing and
correlation detection to calculate velocity, and volumetric and

Standard transducer mounting configurations

One meter, wide range of Identify leak sources, reduce steam usage and
improve plant material balance
flow conditions Leaks and excess steam delivery are two major causes of
loss of product and energy. Reducing them immediately
High flow
improves the overall efficiency in refinery and chemical
The DigitalFlow GF868 meter plant operation. Payback for the entire DigitalFlow GF868
achieves a new standard installation usually occurs within a matter of months.
rangeability of 3280 to 1 and a new
The DigitalFlow GF868 can help save millions of dollars in
Extended Range rangeability of
reduced losses.
4000 to 1. It measures velocities
from 0.1 to 328 ft/s (0.03 to 100 Once the sound speed of the gas has been determined
m/s) standard in both directions, by the DigitalFlow GF868, its on-board computer uses
while the Extended Range version temperature and pressure inputs in conjunction with the
measures velocities to 394 ft/s (120 sound speed to calculate instantaneous average molecular
m/s) in one direction, in steady or weight and mass flow rate of the gas. These parameters
rapidly changing flow, in pipes from 2 in to 120 in (50 mm to 3 are used to help identify sources of leaks into the flare
m) in diameter. With this range of operation, one DigitalFlow system. Detection of even a small increase in flow rate
GF868 flowmeter performs measurements under most of the into the flare system may indicate a leak source such as
conditions that may occur in a flare line on or offshore. The partially unseated relief valve. An accompanying change
extended velocity range to 100 m/s is enabled in standard in the average molecular weight of the flare gas may be
meters with no loss of accuracy. used to help locate the leak source. Quick identification
and elimination of leak sources into the flare system saves
Low flow significant amounts of potentially lost energy and product.

For base load operation the volumetric flow in flares is Mass flow rate may be used to perform a mass balance
often in the range 0.1 to 1 f/s (0.03 to 0.3 m/s) and the flare calculation and to control flare tip steam injection. By
gas flowmeter improves the accuracy over that range, but knowing the exact amount of gas flow and average
still measures at high velocity during facility relief or upset molecular weight in the flare stack, delivery of the correct
conditions. Additional paths, longer paths, unconventional amount of steam required at the flare tip can be accurately
configurations and location of paths are used to achieve controlled. Steam usage can be reduced while maintaining
accurate low flow measurements. A single path or two path compliance with pollution control regulations.
meter can be selected and optimized to meet both high flow
and low flow measurement requirements. Designed for flare gas environment
The DigitalFlow GF868 flowmeter has no moving parts to
clog or wear out. Its patented ultrasonic transducers are
constructed of titanium or other metals that withstand the
Flow corrosive environment usually found in flare gas applications.
direction
The transducers are designed for use in hazardous locations.
Wide rangeability allows measurement of flow rate from
Energy measurement 0.1 up to 394 ft/s (0.03 to 120 m/s). In contrast to thermal
flowmeters, the ultrasonic transit-time technique does not
Latency in measuring the energy content of a flare gas can depend on the heat transfer coefficient of the flare gas and
lead to poor combustion efficiency or fuel gas waste at does not require regular maintenance. These and other
the flare tip. This can lead to excessive emissions, mostly features make the DigitalFlow GF868 unique among flare gas
harmful methane, into the atmosphere, risking increased flowmeters.
fine associated with non-compliance and greater negative
impact on the climate. The model GF868 has an option
Self-calibration check for worry free operation
for measuring the net heating value (NHV) of the flare gas
to help operators optimize their assist flares to provide The DigitalFlow GF868 meter will perform daily heath checks
a smokeless flame and maintain a high combustion using our proprietary algorithm, at the predetermined
efficiency without the latency issues or the installation and flowrates and hour chosen by operators. Depending on the
maintenance costs of a separate analyzer. For increased self-health check result, the meter will output a PASS if the
capabilities unlocking the full potential of reduced emissions meter is working correctly or a FAIL if there is any critical
and flare control and optimization, use a GF868 or an XGF868 failure. In the case of a problem, this will allow operators
with flare.IQ advanced control solution. to know the status of the meter ahead of time and take
actions accordingly. In addition, this will give regulatory
authorities and meter operators confidence that the meter is
functioning reliably and accurately.
GF868 specifications • Four outputs with 1000 Ohm maximum load
Namur NE43 compliant

Electronics Optional inputs/outputs

There are four additional slots available for any combination
Flow measurement
of the following I/O boards:
Patented Correlation Transit-Time mode
• Analog output board with four isolated 0/4 to 20 mA
Enclosures outputs, 1 kOhms maximum load
• Standard: Epoxy-coated aluminum weatherproof Type • Analog input board, two types
4X/ IP66
 • With two isolated 4 to 20 mA inputs and 24V loop power
Can be configured for Class I, Division 2, Groups ABCD,
NEC & CEC • With two isolated, three-wire, 100 Ohms RTD inputs; span
–148°F to 662°F (–100°C to 350°C);
• Optional: Stainless steel, weatherproof Type 4X/ IP66
Can be configured for Class I, Division 2, Groups ABCD, • Totalizer/frequency output board
NEC & CEC
• With four outputs per board, 10-kHz maximum.
Explosion proof
Class I, Division 1, Groups BCD, NEC & CEC Ex d IIC T6 Gb, IECEx • Software-selectable functioning in two modes
& ATEX (II 2G) • Totalizer mode: Pulse per defined unit of parameter (e.g., 1
Dimensions pulse/ft3 or 1 pulse/0.028 m3)

• Weight 11 lb (5 kg) • Frequency mode: frequency proportional to rate of

parameter (e.g., 10 Hz = 1 ft3/h or 0.028 m3/h)
• Size (h x w x d) 14.24 in x 11.4 in x 5.12 in
(362 mm x 290 mm x 130 mm) • Alarm relay board with three hermetically sealed Form C
relays; 120 VAC, 28 VDC maximum, 2A maximum; DC 56W
Channels
maximum, AC 60 VA
• Standard: One channel
Digital interfaces
• Optional: Two channels (for two pipes or two path averaging)
• Standard: RS232
Display
• Optional: RS485 (multiuser)
Two independent software-configurable 64 x 128 pixel backlit
• Optional: HART®7 protocol
LCD graphic displays
• Optional: Modbus® RS485 or TCP/IP
Keypad
• Optional: Ethernet TCP/IP
39-key tactile-feedback membrane
• Optional: OPC server
Power supplies
• Optional: Foundation Fieldbus Namur NE107 Compliant
• Standard: 100 to 130 VAC, 50/60 Hz or 200 to 240 VAC,
50/60 Hz Site parameter programming

• Optional: 12 to 28 VDC, ±5% Menu-driven operator interface using keypad and “soft”
Note: For DC-powered meters, Class 2 rated supplies must be used for the line power.
function keys

Power consumption Data logging

20W maximum Memory capacity (linear and/or circular type) to log more
than 43,000 flow data points
Operating temperature
Display functions
–4°F to 131°F (–20°C to 55°C)
• Graphic display shows flow in numerical or graphic format
Storage temperature
• Displays logged data and diagnostics
–67°F to 167°F (–55°C to 75°C)
European compliance
Standard inputs
Complies with
Two isolated 0/4 to 20 mA inputs (121 Ohm) supports 24VDC
loop-powered devices. • 2014/30/EU EMC - Industrial EM Environments

Namur NE 43 compliant • 2014/35/EU LVD - Equipment Class I, Pollution Degree 2,

Overvoltage Category II
For required temperature and pressure inputs
• 2014/34/EU ATEX (optional) - II 2G
Standard outputs
• The GF868 is intended for inclusion in large-scale fixed
• Six 4 to 20 mA outputs, software assignable
installations (LSFI) and are therefore outside of the scope of
• Two outputs with 550 Ohms maximum load Directive 2011/65/EU RoHS.
T5MAX wetted flow ultrasonic Insertion mechanism
transducers Standard and extended range
2 in (50 mm) and 3 in (76mm) flange mounted packing
Temperature range
gland and valve.
Normal Temperature (NT): -55 C to 150 C
Pressure range
Preamplifier
Standard: -2 psig to 1500 psig (87.6 to 10300 kPa)
In-line XAMP preamplifier with BNC connections; one per
Transducer Material
transducer.
Standard: Titanium
Optional: Hastelloy alloys or SS316 (Consult factory) Gain
• Standard: 20 and 40
Process connections
• Optional: 2 and 10 (factory selected)
Flanged and compression fittings
Preamp temperature range:
Hazardous Area classifications
Explosive-proof Class I, Division 1, CD -40°C to +60°C (-40°F to +140°F)
Optional: Group B upon request Location
Ex d IIC T6..T3 Gb, IECEx & ATEX (II 2G) Installation of the XAMP in the transducer assembly is
An integrated XAMP preamplifier may be installed in the covered by the transducer’s hazardous area certification,
certified assembly. subject to the above temperature limits.
Alternately, the XAMP may be installed separate from the
T5/T17 wetted flow ultrasonic transducer – remote mounted – with the following rating.
transducers Explosion-proof Class I, Division 1, CD or BCD
Temperature ranges Ex d IIC T6 Gb, IECEx & ATEX (II 2G)
Normal Temperature (NT): -55°C to 150°C
Low Temperature (LT): -220°C to 100°C
High Temperature (HT): -50°C to 250°C Transducer cables
Extremely High Temperature (XT): -180°C to 300°C • Standard: (per pair of transducers)
Pressure range • O
 ne pair of coaxial cables, type RG62 A/U, preamplifier to
Standard: -2 psig to 1500 psig (87.6 to 10300 kPa) GF868 electronics, lengths 3 m (10 ft) to 330 m (1000 ft)
Transducer materials maximum
• Standard: Titanium • Optional: flame retardant, armored cable
• Optional: Monel® or Hastelloy® alloys or SS316
Process connections
Additional options
Flanged and compression fittings
PanaView™ PC-interface software
Hazardous Area classifications
Explosion-proof Class I, Div. 1, CD The DigitalFlow GF868 communicates with a PC through a
Optional: Group B upon request serial interface and Windows® operating systems. Features
II 2G Ex d IIC T6..T2 Gb, IECEx & ATEX (II 2G) include site files, logs and other operations with a PC.
An integrated XAMP preamplifier may be installed in the Installation flowcells
certified assembly. Transducers and flowcells for specific applications are
available. Consult Panametrics for details.
Flare control and optimization
Consult Panametrics for details about flare control and
optimization using flare.IQ as a solution for compliance to
emission regulations (such as RSR MACT 63.670) and for
efficient steam control to save cost.
Flow accuracy
Transducer type T5 wetted transducer T17/T5MAX (see note 1)

Number of paths One path Two paths One path Two paths

Flow measurement range

Standard range -328 to 328 ft/s (-100 to 100 m/s) - bidirectional

Extended range .1 to 394 ft/s (0.03 to 120 m/s) - non-bidirectional

Applicable pipe sizes

Diagonal 45 3 in to 14 in (50 to 350 mm) OD 14 in to 120 in (350 to 3000 mm) OD

Bias 90 Note 2 & 3 Not Applicable

Design velocity accuracy from 1 to 394 ft/s (0.3 to 120 m/s) - refer to notes 2 and 3 below

Transducer type T5 wetted transducer T17/T5MAX Wetted Transducer

Number of paths One path Two paths One path Two paths

1 ft/s >3 ft/s 1 ft/s >3 ft/s 1 ft/s >3 ft/s 1 ft/s >3 ft/s
(0.3 m/s) (1 m/s) (0.3 m/s) (1 m/s) (0.3 m/s) (1 m/s) (0.3 m/s) (1 m/s)

Pipe Dia. </= 6 in. (150mm) ±2.5% ±2.0% ±2.0% ±1.5% NA NA NA NA

Pipe Dia. >/= 6 in (150mm) ±2.0% ±2.0% ±1.5% ±1.5% ±2.0% ±2.0 ±1.5% ±1.5%

Calibrated velocity accuracy from 1 to 394 ft/s (0.3 to 120 m/s) — refer to notes 2 and 3 below

Transducer type T5 Wetted Transducer T17/T5MAX Wetted Transducer

Number of paths One path Two paths One path Two paths

1 ft/s >3 ft/s 1 ft/s >3 ft/s 1 ft/s >3 ft/s 1 ft/s >3 ft/s
(0.3 m/s) (1 m/s) (0.3 m/s) (1 m/s) (0.3 m/s) (1 m/s) (0.3 m/s) (1 m/s)

Pipe Dia. </= 6 in. (150mm) ±1.5% ±1.0% ±1.0% ±0.75% NA NA NA NA

Pipe Dia. >/= 6 in (150mm) ±1.0% ±1.0% ±0.75% ±0.75% ±1.0% ±1.0 ±0.75% ±0.75%

Mass flow accuracy

2 to 120 kg ±4.0% ±3.1% ±2.7% ±2.3%

Molecular weight accuracy

2 to 120 kg/kmole ±1.8% to ±2%

Net Heating Value (NHV) accuracy - refer to note 4

Typical accuracy 2% - 5%

Flow velocity sensitivity from .1 to 1 ft/s (0.03 to .3 m/s)

Pipe Dia. = 10 in. (250mm) ±0.12 in/s(±0.004 m/s) ±0.08 in/s( ±0.003 m/s) NA NA

Pipe Dia. = 14 in. (250mm) ±0.12 in/s(±0.004 m/s) ±0.08 in/s( ±0.003 m/s) ±0.08 in/s(±0.003 m/s) ±0.06 in/s( ±0.002 m/s)

Pipe Dia. >/= 20 in. (500mm) ±0.12 in/s(±0.004 m/s) ±0.08 in/s( ±0.003 m/s) ±0.06 in/s( ±0.002 m/s) ±0.04 in/s(±0.0015 m/s)

Repeatability
±0.5% at 1 to 394 ft/s (30 cm/s to 120 m/s). Consult factory for details.

General installation straight run requirement

20D upstream and 5D downstream without CFD analysis.
5D upstream and 2D downstream with CFD analysis. Consult factory for details.
Note 1: T17 available in NT/HT/LT/XT; T5MAX only available in NT.

Note 2: Accuracy and sensitivity are dependent on pipe diameter, molecular weight and temperature. All accuracy specs
assume molecular weights greater than 24 kg/kmole and temperatures less than 100 °F (38 °C)

Note 3: All accuracy specs assume a fully developed flow profile. This typically requires 20D upstream and 5D
downstream. Desired accuracy can also be achieved with shorter straight runs as little as 5D upstream and 2D
downstream through correction factors from Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis loaded to GF868 meters.
Consult factory for details.

Note 4: Assuming known N2 concentration. Consult factory for details.

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 flare emissions and optimizes performance.
With a reach that extends across the globe, Panametrics’
critical measurement solutions and flare emissions
management are enabling customers to drive efficiency
and achieve carbon reduction targets across critical
industries including: Oil & Gas; Energy; Healthcare; Water and
Wastewater; Chemical Processing; Food & Beverage and
many others.
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