Introduction to Process Instruments

The primary variables that a process technician works with and controls are pressure, temperature, flow, level, and analytical or composition. Various instruments are designed to help facilitate this critical aspect of process work. Some of these instruments include computers, gauges, recorders, transmitters, controllers, transducers, primary elements and sensors, switches, and control valves. 

Process technicians use instruments to control complex industrial processes. Thirty years ago, most operators controlled the processes in their plant manually. This type of process was valve intensive in other words, it required the technician to open and close line-ups manually. Basic process instruments have improved as the era of automation has been ushered in. A single process technician can monitor and control a much larger process from a single control center. 

Operators frequently walk through the unit and review various pressure gauges. Console operators closely monitor pressure variables and respond to any alarms. Pressure readings are typically measured in psia or psig. 

Thermocouples are composed of two dissimilar metals that expand at different rates. This type of device converts heat to electricity that is, a thermocouple generates an electric signal in response to heat intensity. This signal can be converted into a temperature measurement. 

Thermally Reactive Metal Thermally Stable Metal Bonding Metal 

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