Description

The Sand Probe is an early warning device used for erosion detection on surface equipment, such as chokes, valves, and pipelines, in oil & gas production wells. Its core component is a sacrificial sand probe, which is made of corrosion-resistant SS316 stainless steel, or can be customized per customer requirements. By inserting the sacrificial tube into the fluid stream to withstand sand particle impact and erosion, it enables early erosion detection, thereby effectively preventing severe equipment damage, leakage, and safety incidents.

The system core features include the ability to be disassembled under system pressure without shutdown. Additionally, it has a newly improved robust design adapted for high-flow conditions and is compatible with standard 2-inch access fittings. Furthermore, it is compliant with the NACE MR0175 standard. Finally, its simple and reliable structure supports online retrieval, which enhances mechanical connection reliability.

Overall Structure

The Sand Probe System mainly consists of the sand probe assembly, solid plug assembly, pressure sensing assembly, access fittings, and protective devices. These components work together to achieve erosion detection, pressure transmission, and warning functions. The specific structure is as follows:

• Core Detection Component: Sand Probe (Sacrificial Tube)
• Connection and Pressure Isolation Component: Solid Plug Assembly
• Warning and Display Component: Pressure Gauge Assembly
• Installation and Protection Components: 2-inch Standard Access Fittings, Protective Cover, Nipple, Threaded Connections, etc.

Core Component Description

Component Name	Material/Specification	Function
Sand Probe (Sacrificial Tube)	Material Options: 316/316L Stainless Steel, Hastelloy C-276, etc.; Standard OD (11.6mm), Wall (0.8mm), other wall thicknesses customizable; Insertion length starting from 95mm, customizable in 14mm increments	Core sacrificial element inserted into the process flow path to withstand sand and solid particle impact erosion, enabling early erosion detection; exposed element uses stainless steel to minimize corrosion interference and improve detection accuracy.
Solid Plug Assembly	Material Options: 316/316L Stainless Steel, Hastelloy C-276, etc.; Includes needle valve, compatible with standard 2-inch access fittings	Connects the sand probe to access fittings, enabling pressure isolation; facilitates online probe retrieval; allows online retrieval of the solid plug assembly itself without disassembling other fittings.
Pressure Sensing Assembly	Pressure Gauge (Standard 0-6000 PSI, other ranges customizable);	When the sand probe is eroded and penetrated, system pressure is transmitted through the flow port and nipple to this assembly, causing the pressure gauge to display a pressure change.
Access Fittings	Standard 2-inch access fittings, including Flarweld, Socketweld, NPT, Flange, etc. types	Provides secure connection between the Sand Probe System and field piping, adapting to different pipeline installation scenarios and ensuring good fluid sealing.
Protective Device	Protective Cover	Protects the probe connection area from impact, dust, and media erosion, extending equipment service life.

Key Care Points for Sand Probe Core Components

Sand Probe Care

• When replacing the probe, select a product with identical specifications (material, wall thickness, insertion length). After replacement, ensure secure connection and good sealing, and readjust the insertion position to meet standard requirements.
• Store unused probes properly, avoiding collision, rust, and humidity. Keep the storage environment dry, ventilated, and away from corrosive media.

Solid Plug Assembly Care

• Apply dedicated lubricant monthly to ensure smooth operation and reliable sealing. If leakage or sticking occurs, inspect or replace immediately.
• After retrieval/removal under pressure, clean any media residue from inside the solid plug assembly. Inspect threads and sealing surfaces for damage, perform polishing/repair if necessary.
• Based on the corrosiveness of the field media, periodically apply anti-corrosion treatment to the solid plug assembly to extend its service life.

Pressure Sensing Assembly Care

• The pressure gauge requires calibration every six months by qualified personnel to ensure accurate range and reliable signal transmission. After calibration, record the calibration results and attach a calibration qualification label.
• Regularly clean the pressure gauge dial and pressure switch sensor surface to avoid dust and media residue affecting detection accuracy. If the gauge is damaged or displays abnormally, replace it immediately.
• Inspect the connecting lines/pipes of the pressure sensing assembly, and clear any blockages periodically. If lines/pipes are damaged or leaking, replace them immediately.