AutoREID

The ASTM D323, D4953, ISO 3007, IP 69 and other similar test methods cover procedure for the determination of vapor pressure of gasoline, volatile crude oil, and other volatile petroleum products, components and feedstocks. The Reid method is part of many petroleum product specifications and suitable for testing liquid samples that exert an air-saturated vapor pressure less than 180,0 kPa at 37,8 °C. Vapor pressure is an important physical property of volatile liquids. This test method is used to determine the vapor pressure at 37.8°C (100°F) of petroleum products and crude oils with initial boiling point above 0°C (32°F). Vapor pressure is critically important for both automotive and aviation gasolines, affecting starting, warm-up, and tendency to vapor lock with high operating temperatures or high altitudes. Maximum vapor pressure limits for gasoline are legally mandated in some areas as a measure of air pollution control. Vapor pressure of crude oils is of importance to the crude producer and the refiner for general handling and initial refinery treatment. Vapor pressure is also used as an indirect measure of the evaporation rate of volatile petroleum solvents.

The sample is prepared in accordance with the test method. The sample is poured in the liquid chamber which is coupled to the air chamber by means of specially designed quick coupling connectors. The assembled pressure vessel is completely sealed. The instrument is designed for easy plug and go operation in full compliance with standard test method. The operator enters test identification in just a few keystrokes, places the pressure vessel in the water bath precisely maintained at 37.8°C (100°F) and connects the pressure link by quick connector.

The test begins automatically. The pressure vessel is agitated by reverserotation and the pressure curve is displayed in real time on the large color monitor. Two simultaneous measurements can be run independently and simultaneously. When the maximum stable pressure is reached, the test stops automatically and the saturated vapor pressure (RVP) is recorded.

All details related to each test are recorded and stored into local database. Complete test report including sample ID, operator name, date/time, RVP value and pressure curve is displayed on the screen. It can be printed on optional printer. Multi-criteria search function facilitates retrieval of test report in the database. Versatile communication features allow complete test report storage on a USB memory stick and/or transfer it to a LIMS when the AutoREID is connected to a LAN.

During the test progress the AutoReid software monitors for leaks and prompts the operator if pressure drops. The watchdog system permanently monitors bath temperature stability, bath level, overpressure or overheating, assuring highest quality results and increased safety of operation. Transparent bath cover provides for visual inspection of the pressure vessels during the test. Special auto-stop drive system protects the operator without disruption of the test. To ensure a perfect traceability the instrument calibrations are date/time tagged and calibration interval can be managed in the software. All information related to the instrument calibration is tracked into the calibration journal.