Abstract: A system and process for predicting the failure of a machine begins with the step of loading a slope signature library into the control system, in which the slope signature library correlates time-to-failure based on rates of change of one or more measured conditions. The process includes the steps of activating the machine, determining baseline measurements, and detecting an out-of-spec measurement. Once an out-of-spec measurement is made, the process includes the determination of the rate of change for the out-of-spec measurement. A slope signature is calculated based on the rate of change for the measured condition, which is compared against the slope signature library to determine a predicted time-to-failure based on the calculated slope signature, and outputting the predicted time-to-failure. The process can be used to modify the operation of the machine to extend the predicted time-to-failure.

Abstract: A multifunction tank access device is configured for connection to a storage tank capable of storing crude oil that has an opening for a conventional thief hatch. The multifunction tank access device has a lower assembly with an isolation valve, and an upper assembly removably connected to the lower assembly. The upper assembly includes a central housing, a pressure relief module, a vacuum relief module, and a tank access module. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the multifunction tank access device is constructed from a material that melts at a temperature below 450° F.

Abstract: A system and process for predicting the failure of a machine begins with the step of loading a slope signature library into the control system, in which the slope signature library correlates time-to-failure based on rates of change of one or more measured conditions. The process includes the steps of activating the machine, determining baseline measurements, and detecting an out-of-spec measurement. Once an out-of-spec measurement is made, the process includes the determination of the rate of change for the out-of-spec measurement. A slope signature is calculated based on the rate of change for the measured condition, which is compared against the slope signature library to determine a predicted time-to-failure based on the calculated slope signature, and outputting the predicted time-to-failure. The process can be used to modify the operation of the machine to extend the predicted time-to-failure.

Abstract: A system for determining the level of solids accumulated in a sand separator has a vibratory level sensor and a solid separator control system. The vibratory level sensor includes a vibratory rod and an exciter connected to the vibratory rod. In some embodiments, a vibration sensor is connected to the vibratory rod to monitor changes in the vibration of the rod. In other embodiments, changes in vibration are measured by looking at the rotational speed and power inputs at the exciter.

Abstract: A system and method for preventing scale in a well. The system includes a conduit providing fluid communication between a first location and a second location and a sensor at the second location configured to measure scale deposition in the fluid and a value of a fluid parameter. A scale deposition at the first location is determined from the scale deposition at the second location and the fluid parameter at the second location. A scale inhibitor is injected at the first location based on the determined scale deposition at the first location.

Abstract: A system and method for preventing scale in a well. The system includes a conduit providing fluid communication between a first location and a second location and a sensor at the second location configured to measure scale deposition in the fluid and a value of a fluid parameter. A scale deposition at the first location is determined from the scale deposition at the second location and the fluid parameter at the second location. A scale inhibitor is injected at the first location based on the determined scale deposition at the first location.

Abstract: A scale sensor comprises sensor electrodes including an uncoated porous metal working electrode and a counter electrode; and an impedance analyzer electrically coupled to the sensor electrodes. A method of monitoring scale deposition comprises placing an uncoated porous metal working electrode and a counter electrode in a fluid to be monitored; and monitoring scale deposition on the uncoated porous metal working electrode using an impedance analyzer electrically coupled to the uncoated porous metal working electrode and the counter electrode.

Abstract: A sensor system including a body having an inlet, an outlet, and a fluid passage extending between the inlet and the outlet. A sensor is arranged at the fluid passage spaced from the outlet, and a temperature adjustment element is arranged in thermal communication with at least one of a portion of the fluid passage and the sensor.