1. Project Background

An oilfield services provider operates hydraulic fracturing and cementing vehicles that handle ultra-high pressure fluid delivery processes. Accurate real-time pressure measurement of high-pressure fluid circuits is critical for safety and operational efficiency. Prior solutions using traditional pressure gauges showed mechanical fatigue and corrosion issues under harsh field conditions.

Hammer Union Pressure Sensor hydraulic fracturing and cementing vehicles (1)

2. Measurement Challenges

This application had several technical challenges:

  • Ultra-high pressure range: up to 160 MPa required robust sensor design.
  • Harsh drilling environment: vibration, dust, and temperature variation.
  • Corrosive fluids: contact materials must resist corrosion.
  • Explosion risk zones: sensor needed intrinsic safety certification.

3. Solution

The solution integrated the KPS210 hammer union pressure sensor directly into the high-pressure lines of fracturing and cementing trucks. The sensor’s sturdy construction and explosion-proof design ensured precise, continuous pressure monitoring in difficult conditions.

KPS210 details (1)

3.1 Equipment Configuration

  • KPS210 hammer union pressure sensor (mounted directly on pressure port)
  • Stainless steel high-pressure tubing to integrate with fluid line
  • Local indicator or control system receiving 4–20 mA output
  • Protective vibration dampers

3.2 Key Technical Specifications

ParameterSpecification
Measuring Range0–30 … 160 MPa
Output Signal4–20 mA (two-wire)
Accuracy±1 %FS (zero + non-linearity)
Operating Temp-30 °C to 70 °C
ProtectionIP65
Explosion ProofEx ib IIB T6 Gb
HousingStainless steel 304
Sensor Diaphragm17-4PH stainless steel

3.3 Implementation Process

Installation
The KPS210 sensor was connected to the high-pressure fluid line using standard hammer union fittings. Care was taken to ensure straight sections of pipe upstream to minimize turbulence effects on measurement.

Configuration
The sensor was powered with 12–28 VDC and calibrated with the control system to ensure accurate scaling of 4–20 mA output to pressure values.

Monitoring & Control
Real-time pressure data were used to inform operators of fluid pressure status and provide alarm signals if pressure exceeded preset safety thresholds.

4. Project Results

Performance MetricResult
Measurement StabilityHigh under vibration and temperature changes
AccuracyConsistent with reference gauge
Corrosion ResistanceStable after long term field use
Explosion SafetyCompliant with Zone 1/2 requirements
MaintenanceReduced compared to previous mechanical gauges

The robust design and accurate output improved operational safety and reduced sensor failures in the field.

5. Conclusion