Instrumentation

OIL AND GAS Instrumentation

Instrumentation & Control Components

Measurement, Control, and Monitoring Devices for Oil & Gas Processes

Instrumentation is the nervous system of every oil and gas facility. Pressure transmitters monitor wellhead performance. Temperature sensors protect compressor bearings. Flow meters quantify fiscal transfer. Level instruments prevent tank overfills. Without reliable, correctly specified instrumentation, safe and efficient operations are impossible.

HogerSP supplies a complete range of process instrumentation, control valves, analytical equipment, and hazardous area components from qualified global manufacturers. Every instrument comes with full calibration certificates, material traceability, and hazardous area certification documentation.


Our Instrumentation Categories at a Glance

CategoryPrimary FunctionKey Products
Pressure InstrumentationMeasure and transmit pressure dataPressure gauges, transmitters, switches, differential pressure
Temperature InstrumentationMeasure and transmit temperature dataThermocouples, RTDs, thermowells, temperature transmitters
Level InstrumentationMeasure liquid and interface levelsRadar, guided wave radar, ultrasonic, displacer, float switches
Flow InstrumentationMeasure and quantify fluid flowCoriolis, ultrasonic, vortex, differential pressure, turbine meters
Analytical InstrumentationAnalyze fluid composition and qualitypH, conductivity, gas detectors, moisture analyzers
Instrument Valves & ManifoldsIsolate, vent, and calibrate instrumentsBall valve, needle valve, 2-way/3-way/5-way manifolds
Instrument Tubing & FittingsConnect instruments to processTwin ferrule, single ferrule, compression fittings, tubing
Junction Boxes & EnclosuresHousing for electrical and instrument terminationsEx d / Ex e enclosures, stainless and GRP
Cable Glands & AccessoriesCable entry sealing and terminationArmoured, unarmoured, hazardous area, barrier glands

SUBCATEGORIES


PRESSURE INSTRUMENTATION

Local Indication, Transmitters, and Switches for Process Pressure Measurement

Pressure is the most measured process variable in oil and gas. From wellhead flowing pressure to refinery column differential, accurate pressure measurement is fundamental to process control, safety, and asset integrity.


Pressure Gauges

Direct-reading local indicators. Simple, reliable, no power required.

TypeDescriptionApplication
Bourdon Tube GaugeC-shaped or helical tube deflects with pressure. Most common typeGeneral process, local indication
Diaphragm GaugeFlexible diaphragm deflects. Used with diaphragm sealsLow pressure, corrosive fluids
Capsule GaugeTwo diaphragms joined. SensitiveVery low pressure, draft measurement
Differential GaugeTwo bourdon tubes or diaphragms. Indicates difference between two pressuresFilter monitoring, level measurement via DP
Liquid-Filled GaugeCase filled with glycerin or silicone oil. Dampens pointer flutterPulsating or vibrating service (pumps, compressors)
Digital GaugeElectronic sensor with digital display. High accuracyCalibration, high-precision applications

Key Specifications:

  • Dial Size: 63mm, 100mm, 150mm, 250mm
  • Accuracy Class: 0.1% (precision) to 2.5% (general)
  • Materials: Brass, 316 SS (wetted), 304 SS (case)
  • Process Connection: 1/4″, 1/2″ NPT, BSP, flanged
  • Options: Blow-out back (safety), weatherproof, glycerin-filled

Pressure Transmitters

Electronic instruments converting pressure to a proportional 4-20mA or digital (HART, Modbus, Fieldbus) output signal for the plant control system.

TypeSensing TechnologyApplication
Gauge Pressure TransmitterPiezoresistive, capacitive, or strain gaugeMeasures pressure relative to atmosphere
Absolute Pressure TransmitterSealed vacuum referenceVacuum distillation, barometric, subsea
Differential Pressure (DP) TransmitterTwo pressure inputsFlow (orifice plate), level (hydrostatic), filter condition
Multivariable TransmitterMeasures DP, static pressure, temperature. Calculates mass flowGas flow measurement
Submersible Pressure TransmitterSealed for immersionTank level, well water depth
Smart / HART TransmitterDigital communication superimposed on 4-20mAAsset management, remote configuration, diagnostics

Key Specifications:

  • Output: 4-20mA, HART, Modbus, Fieldbus, Profibus PA
  • Accuracy: ±0.04% to ±0.1% of span (typical)
  • Turndown: 50:1 to 100:1
  • Hazardous Area: ATEX, IECEx, FM (Ex ia, Ex d, Ex n)
  • Material: 316L SS, Hastelloy C276, Monel (diaphragm); 316 SS or Aluminum (housing)

Pressure Switches

Electromechanical or electronic devices that open or close an electrical contact at a predetermined pressure set point.

TypeDescriptionApplication
Mechanical (Bourdon Tube or Diaphragm)Pressure moves a mechanical snap-action microswitchPump start/stop, alarm, ESD triggers
Electronic (Solid State)Pressure sensor + electronic threshold. Adjustable set pointHigh reliability, remote diagnostics
Differential Pressure SwitchTriggers on DP between two inputsFilter clogging alarm, flow failure

Key Specifications:

  • Set Point: Field-adjustable or factory-set
  • Switching Contacts: SPDT or DPDT
  • Deadband: Fixed or adjustable
  • Housing: Weatherproof IP66, flameproof Ex d

Diaphragm Seals / Remote Seals

Isolate the pressure instrument from the process fluid while transmitting pressure hydraulically through a fill fluid.

  • Purpose: Protect instruments from corrosive, viscous, or high-temperature process fluids
  • Membrane Materials: 316L SS, Hastelloy C276, Monel, Tantalum, PTFE
  • Fill Fluids: Silicone oil (general), glycerin, halocarbon (oxygen service), Neobee M-20 (food)
  • Connection Types: Threaded, flanged, saddle, sanitary

TEMPERATURE INSTRUMENTATION

Sensors, Transmitters, and Protection Wells for Process Temperature Measurement

Temperature measurement is essential for process control, safety shutdown, asset protection, and custody transfer compensation. Every temperature loop comprises three elements: the sensor (thermocouple or RTD), the thermowell (process protection), and the transmitter (signal conditioning).

Temperature Instrumentation


Temperature Sensors

Sensor TypePrincipleTemperature RangeBest For
RTD (Pt100)Platinum resistance changes with temperature-200°C to +600°CAccuracy, stability, custody transfer
RTD (Pt1000)Higher resistance, lower self-heating-200°C to +600°CRemote locations, long cable runs
Thermocouple Type KChromel-Alumel-270°C to +1,370°CHigh temperature, general purpose
Thermocouple Type JIron-Constantan-210°C to +1,200°CReducing atmospheres
Thermocouple Type TCopper-Constantan-270°C to +400°CLow temperature, cryogenic
Thermocouple Type EChromel-Constantan-270°C to +1,000°CHigh output (mV), cold environments
Thermocouple Type NNicrosil-Nisil-270°C to +1,300°CHigh temperature (more stable than K at elevated temps)

RTD vs Thermocouple Selection

ParameterRTD (Pt100)Thermocouple
AccuracyHigher (±0.1°C achievable)Lower (±0.5°C to ±2°C)
StabilityExcellent long-termDrifts with time at high temperature
Temperature RangeUp to +600°CUp to +1,800°C+
Response TimeSlowerFaster (when exposed junction)
CostHigherLower
CableCopper wire (no special cable)Thermocouple extension cable required

Thermowells

Protective housings that isolate the temperature sensor from direct process contact. Allow sensor replacement without process shutdown.

Materials:

  • 316L SS (general purpose)
  • 304 SS (less corrosive)
  • Inconel 600/625 (high temperature, corrosive)
  • Hastelloy C276 (acid service)
  • Duplex (chlorides, seawater)

Connection Types:

  • Threaded (1/2″ NPT, 3/4″ NPT, 1″ NPT)
  • Flanged (ASME B16.5)
  • Socket Weld
  • Van Stone (lagging tip for insulated pipes)

Bore Types:

  • Stepped bore (reduced tip diameter for faster response)
  • Straight bore
  • Tapered bore (high velocity, vibration resistance)

Vibration Calculation: Thermowells in high-velocity service (gas lines, steam) must undergo Wake Frequency Calculation (WFC) per ASME PTC 19.3 TW to ensure they will not fail from vortex-induced vibration.


Temperature Transmitters

Convert sensor signal to 4-20mA or digital output.

  • Head-Mounted: Compact transmitter inside the sensor connection head
  • Field-Mounted: In a separate field enclosure. 2-wire loop powered
  • DIN Rail Mounted: In control room marshalling cabinet
  • Output: 4-20mA + HART, Modbus, Fieldbus
  • Sensor Input: Configurable for RTD (2/3/4-wire), thermocouple, mV, ohm


LEVEL INSTRUMENTATION

Continuous and Point Level Measurement for Tanks, Vessels, and Separators

Level measurement is critical for process containment, inventory management, and safety. Incorrect level readings can lead to tank overfills, pump cavitation, separator carryover, or emergency shutdowns.

Level Instrumentation


Continuous Level Measurement

TechnologyPrincipleBest For
Non-Contact Radar (80GHz / 26GHz)FMCW or pulse radar. Microwaves reflect off liquid surfaceCustody transfer, high accuracy, no process contact
Guided Wave Radar (GWR)Radar pulse guided along probe. Reflects at liquid surfaceInterface measurement (oil/water), turbulent surfaces
UltrasonicSound wave reflects off liquid surfaceNon-contact, water, open tanks
Differential Pressure (Hydrostatic)Measures head pressure of liquid columnPressurized vessels, simple, reliable
DisplacerBuoyancy force on submerged displacer changes with levelSeparators, high pressure, interface measurement
CapacitanceChange in capacitance between probe and vessel wallPoint or continuous, conductive/non-conductive
MagnetostrictiveFloat with magnet slides on probe. Pulse detects positionHigh accuracy, custody transfer, clean fluids
Servo / Float & TapeMotor-driven float follows liquid surfaceBulk storage tanks, very high accuracy

Point Level Switches

TechnologyDescriptionApplication
Float SwitchMechanical float with magnetic or direct linkageSimple, reliable, pump control, high/low alarm
Vibrating Fork (Tuning Fork)Piezoelectric vibration. Dampened when covered by liquidHigh reliability, ignores foam, coatings, turbulence
Thermal DispersionTemperature difference between heated and reference sensorFlow/no-flow, interface detection
CapacitanceChange in capacitance when liquid covers probeViscous, coating, corrosive
ConductivityElectrode conducts when submergedWater-based liquids. Simple, low cost

Interface Measurement

Critical in separators and desalters where oil, water, and emulsion layers must be distinguished.

TechnologyApplication
Guided Wave RadarDistinct reflection at each interface (gas/oil, oil/water)
DisplacerSized for interface density difference
MagnetostrictiveMultiple floats of different density for each layer


FLOW INSTRUMENTATION

Flow Measurement, Metering, and Totalization

Flow measurement ranges from simple local indication to high-accuracy fiscal metering for custody transfer. The choice of technology depends on fluid properties, pipe size, accuracy requirement, and whether the application is for control, monitoring, or fiscal transfer.


Flow Meter Technologies

TechnologyPrincipleAccuracyBest For
CoriolisMass flow. Oscillating tubes. Phase shift proportional to mass flow±0.05% – 0.2%Custody transfer, mass measurement, all fluids
Ultrasonic (Transit Time)Upstream/downstream sonic transit time difference±0.15% – 0.5%Large pipes, gas pipelines, non-intrusive (clamp-on)
VortexShedding frequency of vortices behind a bluff body±0.5% – 1.0%Steam, gas, clean liquids
Differential Pressure (Orifice)Pressure drop across orifice plate. Square root relationship±1.0% – 2.0%Proven technology, gas, steam, wide range of sizes
TurbineRotating turbine. RPM proportional to velocity±0.25% – 0.5%Clean liquids and gas. Custody transfer (liquid)
Positive Displacement (PD)Discrete volume chambers. Count revolutions±0.1% – 0.5%High viscosity, small volumes, custody transfer
Thermal MassHeat dissipation proportional to mass flow±1.0% – 2.0%Gas flow, low flow rates
Variable Area (Rotameter)Float in tapered tube. Position proportional to flow±2.0% – 5.0%Low cost, local indication, purge meters
Electromagnetic (Magmeter)Faraday’s law. Voltage induced in conductive liquid±0.2% – 0.5%Conductive liquids (water, slurry, acids). Not hydrocarbons
Wedge MeterV-shaped restriction. For slurries and viscous fluids±1.0% – 3.0%Produced water, drilling mud, oil sands

Flow Meter Selection Guide

ApplicationRecommended Technology
Custody transfer (oil)Coriolis, Turbine, PD Meter
Custody transfer (gas)Coriolis, Ultrasonic, Turbine
Fuel gas to burners/enginesCoriolis, Thermal Mass, Vortex
Steam (utility, process)Vortex, DP (Orifice)
Produced water (conductive)Electromagnetic (Magmeter)
Drilling mud / slurryWedge Meter, Coriolis (straight tube)
Chemical injectionCoriolis (low flow), PD Meter
Large-diameter gas pipelineUltrasonic (multi-path)
Flare gas (very low to very high)Ultrasonic (flare-specific)
Compressor anti-surgeVortex, DP
Local purge / seal flushVariable Area (Rotameter)

Flow Accessories

  • Flow Straighteners: Remove swirl and velocity profile distortion upstream of meter
  • Metering Runs: Pre-fabricated upstream/downstream pipe sections to API MPMS Chapter 14.3 for orifice meters
  • Flow Computers: Dedicated electronic calculator for compensated flow calculation per AGA, API, ISO standards
  • Meter Provers: In-situ calibration verification for liquid custody transfer meters


ANALYTICAL INSTRUMENTATION

Process Fluid Composition, Quality, and Emissions Monitoring

Analytical instruments provide real-time data on fluid composition, contaminant levels, and environmental emissions. They are essential for process optimization, product quality control, corrosion management, and regulatory compliance.

Analytical Instrumentation


Categories

CategoryMeasuresTechnologies
pH MeasurementAcidity/alkalinity of aqueous solutionsGlass electrode, differential electrode
ConductivityTotal dissolved solids (TDS) in waterContacting (2-electrode, 4-electrode), Toroidal (inductive)
Dissolved OxygenOxygen content in water (corrosion control)Electrochemical (Clark cell), Optical (luminescence quenching)
Turbidity / Suspended SolidsParticulate load in waterNephelometric (90° scatter), Backscatter, Attenuation
Oil-in-WaterHydrocarbon contamination in produced waterUV Fluorescence, Light Scatter, IR Absorption
Water-in-OilWater content in crude oil (BS&W)Capacitance, Microwave, Density
Gas DetectionToxic and flammable gas for personnel safetyCatalytic bead (flammable), Electrochemical (toxic), Infrared (CO2/hydrocarbons), Open-path
Moisture / Dew PointWater content in natural gasChilled Mirror, Capacitance (Al2O3 sensor), Quartz Crystal Microbalance
H2S AnalyzerHydrogen sulfide in gas streamsLead acetate tape (high accuracy), UV Absorption, Tunable Diode Laser
Gas ChromatographFull gas composition analysis (C1-C6+, CO2, N2, H2S)Process GC with TCD/FID detectors. For custody transfer and process control
Stack Emissions (CEMS)SO2, NOx, CO, CO2, O2, particulates from fired equipmentExtractive or In-situ analyzers

Typical Applications in Oil & Gas

ApplicationRequired Analyzer
Produced water discharge complianceOil-in-Water
Crude oil sales quality (BS&W)Water-in-Oil (Capacitance / Microwave)
Amine unit H2S slip monitoringH2S Analyzer (Lead Acetate Tape)
Gas dehydration (TEG unit)Moisture / Dew Point Analyzer
Cooling water corrosion controlpH, Conductivity
Boiler feedwater qualitypH, Conductivity, Dissolved Oxygen, Silica
Flare gas compositionGas Chromatograph
Personnel safety (H2S, LEL, O2)Fixed Gas Detectors
LNG liquefaction (CO2 freeze-out)CO2 Analyzer, Moisture Analyzer

INSTRUMENT VALVES & MANIFOLDS

Isolation, Venting, and Calibration Valves for Pressure Instruments

Instrument valves and manifolds are small-bore valves specifically designed for connecting pressure instruments (transmitters, gauges, switches) to the process. They enable safe isolation, venting, zero-check, and calibration without removing the instrument from service.

Instrument Valves & Manifolds


Valve Types

TypeFunctionTypical Standard
Ball Valve (Instrument)Quarter-turn on/off isolation. Compact, quick actingASME B16.34, API 608
Needle ValveFine throttling for vent, drain, and calibrationASME B16.34
Gate Valve (Instrument)On/off isolation with minimal pressure drop cross seatAPI 602
Check Valve (Instrument)Prevent reverse flowASME B16.34
Bleed ValveSmall valve for venting trapped pressure or drainingASME B16.34

Manifold Types

ManifoldPortsFunction
2-Way ManifoldBlock + BlockSimple isolation for gauge pressure transmitters
3-Way ManifoldBlock + Equalize + BlockFor differential pressure transmitters. Enables zero check
5-Way ManifoldBlock + Block + Equalize + Vent + VentFull-function DP transmitter manifold. Isolation, equalization, and venting/drain on both sides
Double Block & Bleed (DBB)Block + Block + Bleed betweenPositive isolation for calibration or removal. The industry standard for critical applications

Materials:

  • Body: 316 SS (most common), 304 SS, Carbon Steel, Duplex, Monel, Hastelloy
  • Stem: 316 SS
  • Seat/Packing: PTFE, Graphite, PEEK, Metal-to-Metal

Pressure Ratings: Typically 6,000 psi (414 bar) or 10,000 psi (690 bar)

Connections:

  • Process End: 1/2″ NPT Female, Flanged, or Compression fitting
  • Instrument End: 1/2″ NPT Female (standard), direct mount flange


INSTRUMENT TUBING & FITTINGS

Small-Bore Tubing and Leak-Free Compression Connections

Instrument tubing connects process impulse lines, air supply lines, and hydraulic control lines to instruments, valves, and actuators. The integrity of these connections is critical—a single leaking fitting in an ESD signal line can cause a spurious plant shutdown.


Tubing

MaterialSpecificationMax TemperatureApplication
316/316L Stainless (Annealed)ASTM A213 / A269Up to +538°CGeneral process, corrosive fluids
316/316L Stainless (Hard-Drawn)ASTM A213 / A269Up to +538°CHigher pressure rating than annealed
304/304L StainlessASTM A213 / A269Up to +538°CLess corrosive environments
Duplex (UNS S31803)ASTM A789Up to +300°CHigh chlorides, seawater
Super Duplex (UNS S32750)ASTM A790Up to +300°CExtreme chlorides
Monel 400ASTM B165Up to +538°CSeawater, HF acid
Inconel 600 / 625ASTM B167 / B444Up to +1,093°CSour HPHT, extreme corrosion
Copper (Soft/Annealed)ASTM B75Up to +204°CPneumatic instrument air lines
6Mo (UNS S31254)ASTM A213Up to +400°CHigh chloride, high temperature

Sizes: 1/8″ to 2″ OD (common: 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″ OD)

Wall Thickness: Typically 0.035″, 0.049″, 0.065″ (0.89mm, 1.24mm, 1.65mm)


Fittings

Twin Ferrule (Two-Piece Ferrule) Compression Fittings

The industry standard for high-pressure, high-temperature, and high-vibration instrument connections. The front ferrule seals, the back ferrule grips and aligns.

  • Most Common Brands: Swagelok, Parker CPI, Hy-Lok, Superlok, DK-Lok
  • Interchangeability: Many manufacturers offer functionally interchangeable designs (though full traceability to one brand is preferred for critical service)

Single Ferrule Compression Fittings

Older design. Single ferrule performs both sealing and gripping. Simpler but less forgiving of installation errors than twin ferrule.

Other Fitting Types:

TypeDescription
NPT-to-Compression AdapterMale/female NPT one side, compression other side
Bulkhead FittingsPass tubing through a panel or enclosure wall
Tube Plugs & CapsSeal open fitting ports or tube ends
Tube ReducersConnect different OD tubing sizes
Positionable Elbows & TeesElbow or tee body that can be oriented after tightening
Pipe Fittings (NPT)Standard NPT elbows, tees, couplings for small-bore threaded connections


JUNCTION BOXES & ENCLOSURES

Hazardous Area Electrical and Instrument Termination Housings

Junction boxes house electrical and instrument cable terminations, marshalling connections, and small control components. In oil and gas facilities, the vast majority are located in hazardous areas and must be certified to contain any internal explosion or prevent ignition of the external atmosphere.


Hazardous Area Protection Concepts

ProtectionStandard (IEC/ATEX)PrincipleApplication
Ex d (Flameproof)IEC 60079-1Contains explosion inside. Flame path cools escaping gasesHigh-power, frequent access, Zone 1
Ex e (Increased Safety)IEC 60079-7No arcing/sparking components inside. Prevents explosionTerminations, Zone 1/2, lower cost than Ex d
Ex i (Intrinsic Safety)IEC 60079-11Energy limited below ignition thresholdInstrument loops, Zone 0/1, low-power circuits
Ex n (Non-Sparking)IEC 60079-15No ignition source in normal operationZone 2 only, lowest cost
Ex p (Purged/Pressurized)IEC 60079-2Internal positive pressure prevents gas ingressLarge enclosures, analyser houses

Enclosure Materials

MaterialFeaturesBest For
316(L) Stainless SteelMaximum corrosion resistance. Highest cost. HeavyOffshore, coastal, chemical plants
304 Stainless SteelGood corrosion resistance. Moderate costGeneral industrial, onshore
Copper-Free AluminumLightweight, good corrosion resistance. Standard for onshoreOnshore oil and gas, refineries
GRP (Glass-Reinforced Polyester)Non-metallic, no corrosion. Lightweight. Impact resistantHighly corrosive atmospheres, coastal
Polycarbonate / ABSEconomical. Zone 2 / safe area onlyNon-hazardous, indoor, shelters

Typical Accessories

  • Terminal Blocks: Screw clamp, spring clamp, fused, disconnect
  • Cable Entry Plates: Removable plates for gland mounting
  • Drain & Vent Plugs: Prevent condensation accumulation
  • Earth Continuity Studs: Internal and external earth bonding
  • Mounting Plates / DIN Rails: Internal component mounting
  • Breathers / Desiccators: Prevent internal condensation in humid environments
  • Window Kits: Visual inspection of internal components

CABLE GLANDS & ACCESSORIES

Cable Entry Sealing, Termination, and Earth Continuity

Cable glands provide the mechanical and environmental seal where cables enter junction boxes, instruments, motors, and panels. In hazardous areas, the gland is a critical safety component that must maintain the integrity of the enclosure protection concept.

Cable Glands & Accessories


Gland Types by Cable Type

Cable TypeGland Type
Steel Wire Armoured (SWA)Armoured gland. Clamps armour for mechanical retention and earth continuity
Unarmoured (Non-Armoured)Compression gland. Seals on outer sheath only
Braided / ScreenedBraid grip gland. Terminates braid screen for EMC continuity
Instrument / MultipairCompact gland for small-diameter, multiple-pair cables

Hazardous Area Gland Selection

Protection ConceptGland Requirement
Ex d (Flameproof)Must withstand explosion pressure. Must have flame path (sealing washer or compound). Certified as assembly with enclosure
Ex e (Increased Safety)Must maintain IP rating. Impact tested
Ex i (Intrinsic Safety)Standard industrial gland acceptable (system is safe by energy limitation)
Ex n (Non-Sparking)IP-rated gland. No special flame path required

Gland Material Options

MaterialApplication
Brass (Nickel-Plated)Standard for onshore, general industrial
316 Stainless SteelOffshore, corrosive, coastal
AluminumLightweight, limited corrosive environments
GRP / NylonNon-metallic, non-corrosive, limited mechanical protection

Gland Accessories

AccessoryFunction
LocknutsSecure gland to enclosure
Earth Tags (Banjo)Earth continuity connection for armoured glands
Shrouds (Gland Covers)Weatherproofing over exposed gland and earth tag
Reducing AdaptorsFit smaller gland into larger enclosure entry
Stopping PlugsBlank unused enclosure entries. Certified to match enclosure
Sealing Compound & KitsPour-in two-part compound for Ex d vertical entries
Cable Ties & CleatsCable support and routing
Jubilee ClipsSecure shroud over gland

Cable Gland Standards

StandardScope
IEC 62444Cable glands for electrical installations
IEC 60079-0 / -1 / -7Hazardous area gland requirements (as part of equipment cert)
EN 50262Metric cable glands
BS 6121Mechanical cable glands (superseded)