Industrial Instrumentation for Continuous Processes

Instrumentation is a vital field bridging automation, process engineering, mechanical engineering, and programming. While true expertise across all these areas is rare, understanding and utilizing measuring instruments and their data is crucial for success in many industries. The principle "You cannot improve something you cannot measure" underscores the importance of accurate measurement – and all measurements have inherent imperfections.

This comprehensive course offers an in-depth look at the instruments used in continuous industrial processes involving gases, liquids, and granular solids. We cover applications common in sectors like water treatment, oil & gas, chemical processing, mining, food production, and thermal power generation.

You'll learn about and compare instruments measuring key properties including:

• Temperature
• Pressure
• Level
• Vibrations
• Flow
• Composition

The course reviews over 80 common device types, including:

• Thermocouples
• RTDs (Resistance Temperature Detectors)
• Bourdon Tube Pressure Gauges
• Diaphragm Pressure Gauges
• Hydrostatic Level Indicators
• Ultrasonic Level Indicators
• Orifice Plate Flow Meters
• NDIR Analyzers
• ...and much more!

To ensure a solid understanding and practical application, we'll explore:

• Measured Properties & Units: A clear explanation of what's being measured and the standard units used.
• Data Error Types: Understanding potential sources of error in measurement data.
• Data Transmission Methods: How instrument data is transmitted and integrated into systems.
• Process & Instrument Drawings: Interpreting schematics and diagrams.
• Instrument Selection Criteria: How to choose the right instrument for a specific application.

This course is designed for anyone currently working in, or planning to enter, continuous processes. We start with fundamental concepts and gradually increase complexity, using real-world examples to illustrate key principles. The goal is to develop a critical understanding of instrument data, the ability to interpret technical documentation, and proficiency in the daily operation of instruments. This will empower you to solve problems, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions.

To reinforce your learning, the course includes quizzes and documents, including a valuable instrument selection checklist to support your career. Gain the knowledge to confidently analyze data and optimize your processes!