Cloud Point Measurement – We’ve all seen what happens to olive oil when its temperature drops. It becomes cloudy and unpalatable. The same is true of other types of oil. And that is why petrochemical companies are concerned about cloud point measurement.
Cloud Point Measurement – What is the cloud point?
So, going back to olive oil for a moment. I love olive oil. I cook with it, and even when I am just scoffing a salad, I am pouring it onto my plate without a care in the world. To me, olive oil is a wonder of the natural world and I make sure that I look after it. Stored in a cool place, away from sunlight, so that it stays as wonderous as always.
But there is nothing more annoying than finding your olive oil has clouded, usually because the temperature has dropped too low. For olive oil, that happens at about 4 degrees Centigrade. It develops white, lumpy, and waxy spheroids that sink to the bottom of the dispenser. It loses it clarity, and for me, it loses its appeal.
And that is olive oil reaching the cloud point. Just as olive oil starts to lose its clarity, so does any liquid when it reaches its cloud point temperature.
Cloud Point Measurement – Its importance in the Petrochemical Industry
Olive oil isn’t exactly cheap. However, imagine the financial consequences of allowing petrochemicals to reach their cloud point. Diesel starts to form paraffin wax when it reaches its cloud point. Imagine what that does to the refining process. Cloud point measurement is an essential element of the refining process for all petrochemicals, and refineries cannot afford to get it worng. Maintaining clear, cloud-free product is of paramount importance.
At ATAC, we have been manufacturing the Hone Cloudar for many years. It is a cloud point analyser, and the appeal of this fabulous piece of kit has persisted for a long time. Many of the original Hone Cloudars (pictured above right) are still working away on refineries all around the world. We are still asked about the analyser, about potential upgrades, and interest is still keen.
That’s why we are working on relaunching the machine, with a few upgrades built in. We are refining the electronics and ensuring that the next generation of this old favourite is fit for the 21st Century. There are many in the petrochemical world that recommend the Hone Cloudar as the finest cloud point measurement analyser on the market.
Watch this space
So, keep an eye on our website. In the next few weeks, we will be relaunching an upgraded version of this fine analyser. But you don’t have to wait until then. Give ATAC a ring or send us an email and we will happily tell you what is in the pipeline (not intended to be a pun, but I will take it if anyone is counting).
As always, you can reach us on sales@atacgroup.com or by phoning +44 (0)1380 818411. Our Technical Director, Dr Mark Turpin, is always open to incorporate your ideas when redesigning any machine, and our Sales Director (Oil & Gas), John Kelly, is happy to hear from you.
Feature Image (Clouds) courtesy of Marc Wieland – Article Image (Diesel) courtesy of Markus Spiske
