Aramco SAES-J-100

Engineering Standard
SAES-J-100 08 May 2019

Process Measurement
Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee
Contents
1 Scope ................................................................ 2
2 Conflicts and Deviations ................................... 2
3 References........................................................ 2
4 General Requirements ...................................... 5
5 Process Flow Measurement.............................. 5
6 Pressure Measurement ................................... 11
7 Level Measurement ........................................ 13
8 Temperature Measurement............................. 25
9 Revision Summary .......................................... 33
Appendix 1 - Minimum Straight Run Lengths
for Orifice Plates without Flow
Conditioners in Accordance
with ISO 5167-2 ............................... 34
for Classical Venturis in Accordance
with ISO 5167-4 ............................... 35
Previous Issue: 12 October 2017 Next Planned Update: 12 October 2020

Revised paragraphs are indicated in the right margin Page 1 of 35
Contacts: Abdul Razak, Mokhtarudin (abdumx1j) on +966-13-8801303 or
Sahan, Fawaz A. (sahanfa) on +966-13-8808450
©Saudi Aramco 2019. All rights reserved.

Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-100
Issue Date: 08 May 2019
Next Planned Update: 12 October 2020 Process Measurement
1 Scope
This standard defines the minimum mandatory requirements governing the design and
installation of process measurement instruments. For custody measurements refer to
applicable custody MSAERs.
This standards is based on API RP 551, 2nd Edition, “Process Measurement”

All requirements of API RP 551 are applicable except as stated in this standard.
2 Conflicts and Deviations
Any conflicts between this document and other applicable Mandatory Saudi Aramco
Engineering Requirements (MSAERs) shall be addressed to the EK&RD Coordinator.
Any deviation from the requirements herein shall follow internal company procedure
SAEP-302.
3 References
The selection of material and equipment, and the design, construction, maintenance, and
repair of equipment and facilities covered by this standard shall comply with the latest
edition of the references listed below, unless otherwise noted.
3.1 Saudi Aramco References
Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedure

SAEP-302 Waiver of a Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering
Requirement
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

SAES-B-057 Safety Requirements: Refrigerated and Pressure
Storage Tanks and Vessels
SAES-J-002 Regulated Vendor List for Instruments
SAES-J-003 Instrumentation-Basic Design Criteria
SAES-J-601 Emergency Shutdown and Isolation Systems
SAES-J-902 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation
Saudi Aramco Materials System Specification

34-SAMSS-913 Instrumentation and Thermocouple Cable
Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Page 2 of 35
Saudi Aramco Standard Drawings

AD-036004 Orientation for Orifice Flanges
AB-036094 Standard Orifice Plates
AC-036413 Raised Face Orifice Flange Assembly
AB-036414 Ring Joint Orifice Flange Assembly
AA-036256 Radar, Temperature, and Manual Gauging
Assembly for Floating Roof Tanks
AE-036175 Detail of Heavy Welding Boss for Threaded
Connections to Vessels and Lines
AB-036521 Bridge Weld and Typical Brace Seal Welded and
Socket Welded Valves on Process Lines
AB-036019 Thermowell - Assembly and Detail
Saudi Aramco Library Drawings

DC-950045 Standard Instrument Standpipe
DB-950046 Instrument Piping Detail for Liquid Level Gauge
Glasses
DB-950047 Instrument Piping Details for Pneumatic Level
Instruments
DB-950048 Standard Instrument Piping Details for Electric
Level Instruments
3.2 Industry Codes and Standards
American Gas Association (AGA)

AGA Report 3 Orifice Metering of Natural Gas
AGA Report 8 Compressibility and Supercompressibility for
Natural Gas and Other Hydrocarbon Gases
AGA Report 9 Measurement of Gas by Multipath Ultrasonic Meters
American Petroleum Institute

API MPMS 14.3.2 Natural Gas Fluids, Concentric, Square-Edged,
Orifice Meters, Specifications, and Installation
Requirements

Page 3 of 35
Commentary Note:
API-14.3/AGA-3 are identical documents, so they can be used interchangeably.
API RP 551 Process Measurement, Second Edition

API MPMS 3.1A Standard Practice for Manual Gauging of
Petroleum and Petroleum Products
API MPMS 3.1B Standard Practice for Level Measurement of Liquid
Hydrocarbon in Stationary Tanks by Automatic
Tank Gauging
API MPMS 7 Temperature Determination
API MPMS 14.8 Natural Gas Fluids Measurement Section 8 –
Liquefied Petroleum Gas Measurement
American Society of Mechanical Engineers

ASME B16.36 Orifice Flanges
ASME B16.47 Large Diameter Steel Flanges: NPS 26 through NPS
60 Metric/Inch Standard
ASME B16.5 Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings
ASME PTC 19.3 Temperature Measurement - Instruments and
Apparatus
International Society for Measurement and Control (ISMC)

ISA/ANSI MC96.1 Temperature Measurement Thermocouples
International Organization for Standardization

ISO 5167 Parts 1-5 Measurement of Fluid Flow by Means of pressure
Differential Devices Inserted in Circular Cross-
Section Conduits Running Full
Scientific Apparatus Makers Association (SAMA)

SAMA RC21-4-1966 Temperature - Resistance Values for Resistance
Thermometer Elements of Platinum, Nickel, and
Copper

Page 4 of 35
4 General Requirements
4.1 Selection Criteria
4.1.1 The selection of process measurement instrumentation shall consider the

following as a minimum: Application suitability, Reliability, Turndown
ratio, Required Accuracy, Operability, and Maintainability.
4.1.2 This standard is not intended to be an exclusive listing of all instruments

types. When engineering considerations so dictate and when not
prohibited, other types may be used as referenced in SAES-J-002.
4.1.3 Selection of instrumentation for ESD service shall meet requirements of

SAES-J-601 in addition to this standard.
4.1.4 Frequency/Stress calculation shall be performed on all intruding elements

such as pitot tube, thermowell, etc. In addition, these calculations shall be
attached to the respective Instrument Specification Sheet (ISS).
4.2 Installation Requirement
4.2.1 All installation requirements shall follow SAES-J-003.
4.2.2 Pressure and differential transmitters (unless close coupled) and bellows
type meters shall not be installed on process piping but on a separate
instrument stand or column. A 3-valve or 5-valve manifold close
coupled to the instrument shall be used.
4.2.3 Diaphragm (Capillary) seals shall be used in lieu of impulse tubing for
volatile, dirty fluids and applications that may cause impulse line
blockage. The installation shall include drain valves between the process
block valves and the diaphragm seal. Capillary seal fluids, when used,
shall be suitable for external ambient conditions. Electronic remote seals
are acceptable. Wet leg shall be avoided.
5 Process Flow Measurement
If operation requirements dictate high accuracy measurements, custody quality meters

shall be considered with pressure, temperature and composition compensations.
In addition, the calculations shall be carried out in dedicated flow computers or DCS
per applicable AGA Reports 3, 8, and 9.

Page 5 of 35
Commentary Note:
Examples of these high accuracy meters include flow meters installed on lines feeding to
the master gas grid or on the take-off points for internal company fuel consumption.
5.1 Meter Sizing
5.1.1 Software sizing of orifices shall be done in accordance with API-14.3/

AGA-3 or ISO 5167. Sizing software may be used.
5.1.2 Nozzle, Venturi, and other differential pressure device calculations shall
be in accordance with ISO 5167.
5.1.3 For other proprietary meters, the manufacturer’s sizing and calculation
methods shall be used.
5.1.4 In general, differential pressure type flow instruments should be sized

such that normal flow is between 65% to 80% of design maximum.
5.1.5 Square root extractions in calculating flows from differential pressure

based flow meters shall only be performed in one location either in the
transmitter, flow computer, or preferably in the control system.
5.2 Installation and Piping
5.2.1 A line class root/isolation valve shall be provided at each process

connection. Piping from taps to this first root valve shall be specified
and provided by the piping discipline.
Exception:
Closed coupled instrument mounting systems and special manifolds that

combine piping and instrument valves maybe used. Effects of instrument
size and weight as well as heat or vibration in piping systems should be
carefully evaluated.
5.2.2 Orifice flanges are to be weld-neck with an internal bore to match the
internal diameter of the pipe. Any distortion resulting from the butt weld
shall be removed and ground flush with the inside diameter of the pipe.
Orifice flanges up to 24 inches shall be in accordance with ASME B16.36
and API 14.3/AGA-3. Orifice flanges larger than 24” can be based on
ASME B16.47.
5.2.3 When piping is used for process connections, the piping and flange
specifications and installations shall follow the relevant piping standards.
From the root valve to the instrument, the instrument piping
specification, material of construction, pressure rating, fittings, and
Page 6 of 35
valves shall meet or exceed applicable piping specifications for the

process service. Flanges shall be rated at a minimum of ASME/ANSI
Class 150.
5.2.4 For liquid services, pressure taps shall be located on the horizontal plane
of the piping or alternatively up to 45 degrees down from horizontal for
non-plugging applications. The impulse lines shall be sloped downward
approximately 1:12 toward the transmitter.
5.2.5 For gas and vapor services, pressure taps shall be located on the vertical
from the top of the piping, or up to 45 degrees from top. The impulse
lines shall be sloped downward approximately 1:12 toward the process
connections.
5.2.6 For steam services, pressure taps shall be located on horizontal plane of
the piping, and shall be equipped with seal pot or equivalent. Both seal
pots must be at the same elevation.
5.2.7 All parallel pipe lines with adjacent orifice flanges or orifice fittings
shall have a minimum spacing of 300 mm (12 in) between flanges
outside diameters if horizontal taps are required. In addition, they shall
be staggered so that no two pairs of orifice flanges (centerline to
centerline) are less than 1 m (3 ft) apart. Where this spacing is not
possible or practical, taps may be reoriented per Standard Drawing
AD-036004.
5.2.8 Flow measurements requiring temperature compensation thermowells

shall be located between 5 to 20 nominal pipe diameters downstream of
the meter.
5.2.9 Unless otherwise required by the process or piping specifications, orifice

plates, flow nozzles, pitot tubes, and flow conditioners shall be 316
stainless steel as a minimum.
5.2.10 Flow conditioners shall not be used if the meter is followed by rotating
process equipment (compressors, pumps, turbines, etc.) that can be
damaged if a part of the conditioning device breaks off and enters the
equipment.
5.2.11 The use of strainers and air eliminators shall be considered to protect
metering devices when performance or integrity is compromised without
such protection.

Page 7 of 35
5.3 Orifice Meter
5.3.1 Flange taps shall be used for all orifice meter installations. The tap
connections shall conform to Standard Drawing AC-036413 or
AB-036414.
5.3.2 Paddle type orifice plates shall be used where raised face orifice flanges
are used.
5.3.3 The orifice plate shall be fabricated per Standard Drawing AB-036094.
5.3.4 Orifice bore beta ratios shall be between 0.20 and 0.70. However, for
orifice plates in 24 inches and larger pipelines that require low pressure
losses, a beta ratio of 0.75 is acceptable.
5.3.5 Appendix 1 shall be used for straight run requirements. For new orifice
plate installations, a beta ratio of 0.75 shall be assumed when
determining the minimum length of straight piping required.
Commentary Note:
Integral orifices may be used in non-plugging service, meter size is less

than 2” and shall be in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.
Coriolis meters are recommended for installations on small pipe sizes.
5.3.6 When the static pressure compensation is required, the connection is

recommended to be derived from the orifice meter upstream pressure
tap.
5.4 Flow Nozzles
5.4.1 In high pressure (1,000 psig or higher) applications, the flow nozzle shall
be welded directly into the pipe and a flanged drop out spool section
shall be provided upstream of the flow nozzle for inspection and
maintenance.
5.4.2 Pipe sections for the installation of flow nozzles shall be stamped with
the Instrument Tag Number of the element, the element location in the
pipe, the pipe internal diameter, and the direction of flow.
5.4.3 Minimum straight run pipe length requirements and construction shall be
in accordance with ISO 5167-3.

Page 8 of 35
5.5 Averaging Pitot Element
5.5.1 For a removable element, the process valve shall have the proper inside
diameter to allow passage of the element. The valve shall meet
applicable piping specifications.
5.5.2 Manufacturer’s installation recommendations shall consider element

deflects and vibration in large diameter pipes or ducts or if high flow
velocity.
5.5.3 Pitot Elements shall only be installed in clean noncritical services. In

addition, elements shall be provided with purge capability.
5.6 Venturi
5.6.1 Fabrication and calculations of Venturi meters shall be in accordance to

ISO 5167-4.
5.6.2 Minimum straight run pipe length requirements shall be in accordance

with Appendix 2.
5.7 Turbine Meter
5.7.1 Viscosity compensated turbine meters shall not be used.
5.7.2 A dual bearings shall be used which are supported in the front and back
of the rotor.
5.7.3 The meter shall have a hydro-dynamically balanced design to minimize

the thrust developed by the rotor.
5.7.4 Meters in process applications shall be sized to handle 120% of the

specified maximum flow rate.
5.7.5 Each turbine meter shall be furnished with two magnetic pick-up coils
mounted so as to produce signals that are 90 degrees out-of-phase.
Each pick-up coil shall be provided with a pre-amplifier.
5.7.6 Turbine Flow Meters - Performance
Meter Linearity for specified flow range ± 1%

Meter Repeatability ± 0.5%
Flow Range Turndown ratio 8:1

Page 9 of 35
5.8 Positive Displacement Meter
5.8.1 Positive displacement meters shall be sized to operate between 30% and
80% of the upper range value of the nameplate rating.
5.8.2 Copper or copper alloys shall not be used for meter internals.
5.8.3 Positive Displacement Meter - Performance
Accuracy, over normal flow range ± 1.0%

Linearity, over normal flow range ± 1.0%
Repeatability, over normal flow range ± 0.5%
Rangeability (nominal) normal flow range 10:1
5.9 Ultrasonic Flow Meter
5.9.1 Clamp-on type meters are acceptable for non ESD services in existing
facilities in case pipe modification is not possible.
Commentary Note:
For clamp on meters installations shall comply with all vendor

requirements such as straight run requirements, full pipes, temperature
and pressure conditions, and suspended solids and gases. Avoid the
use of the devices requiring gel compound for the transducers as it will
cause issues for maintenances.
5.9.2 Clamp-on ultrasonic meters shall not be allowed for new pipe
construction.
Exceptions:
Clamp-on, insertion or spool type ultrasonic meters can be used for tank
dewatering and Pipeline Product Interface Detection applications.
Both flow and sound velocity measurement are needed.
For applications require the clamp-on flowmeter, prior approval from

Instrumentation Unit is required.
5.9.3 In insertion type meters, transducer location and alignment of the nozzles
shall be per meter manufacturer’s recommendation.
5.9.4 Ultrasonic Flow Meter are recommended for flare services.

Integral extraction mechanism to facilitate easy online cleaning or
replacement of the transducers when required such as in dirty gas and
flare service shall be provided.
Page 10 of 35
5.10 Flow Switches
Vane (paddle) type flow switches shall not be used.
5.11 Transmitters and Indicator
5.11.1 Multivariable smart transmitters may be used for Temperature-Pressure

compensated flow loops whenever possible.
5.11.2 Sight Flow Indicators or Sight Flow Glasses shall only be installed if no
other alternatives are available. Also, they shall not be used in toxic and
corrosive services.
6 Pressure Measurement
6.1 General
6.1.1 As a minimum, all pressure devices shall be specified with over-range

protection to 1.5 times the maximum system operating pressure.
In addition, transmitters shall be protected against vacuum in vacuum
applications.
6.1.2 Pressure sensing elements shall withstand a proof pressure not less than
the system hydrostatic test pressure without damage to the element.
6.1.3 Material selection for pressure device wetted parts shall be type 316
stainless steel minimum with PTFE gaskets, unless other materials are
required by the process.
6.1.4 Ranges shall be selected such that the normal operating pressure falls
between 30% and 70% of the scale range.
6.2 Pressure Gauges
6.2.1 Fill material shall be selected with care because of the possibility of a
reaction with the process and ambient/process temperature limitations.
6.2.2 Pulsation dampers should be considered in addition to filled cases.
6.2.3 The process connection for a pressure gauge shall be ½-inch MNPT
(either bottom or back connected).
6.2.4 Dials on Process pressure gauges shall be 100 mm (4-½ in) in diameter
and shall be white with black numerals.

Page 11 of 35
6.2.5 Siphons shall be specified in steam and other high-temperature

condensable vapor services.
Note: Siphons shall also be used for process fluids with a temperature over
250°C (480°F) when the gauge is above the tap connection.
6.2.6 Gauges supplied by vendors as part of other pneumatic devices such as

current to pneumatic converters, instrument air supply regulators, valve
positioners, piston actuators, and similar devices shall be vendor
standard unless otherwise specified.
6.3 Pressure Switches
6.3.1 Pressure switch should only be considered when pressure transmitters

cannot be used and the deadband shall be compatible with the application.
Comment:
If the process runs close to the switch setting, a large deadband may
prevent the switch from resetting after the trip has cleared.
6.3.2 Switch Process side connections shall be ½ inch NPT. Connections for
pneumatic tubing shall be ¼ inch NPT female, minimum.
6.3.3 Electric switch contacts shall be snap acting, single-pole, double-throw

(SPDT) as a minimum. The contact rating shall be sufficient to operate
solenoids, relays, or other devices as specified in the data sheet without
the need for additional or interposing relays. Hermetically sealed switch
contacts are preferred.
6.3.4 Switch actuation, as the result of increasing or decreasing pressure must

be specified.
6.4 Accessories
6.4.1 All pulsation dampeners (or snubbers), siphons, diaphragm seals and
similar accessories shall be shown on P&IDs.
6.4.2 Snubbers shall not be used on switches in critical service or dirty

services. Pulsation dampeners using a restriction orifice or a moving
piston are acceptable. Capillary tube-type snubbers are not acceptable.
6.4.3 Gauge savers protecting instruments against pressures that are very high
compared to the operating range may be used, except on switches in
critical service.

Page 12 of 35
6.5 Installation Requirements
6.5.1 Branch connection up to and including the first block (root) valve shall
meet the applicable Saudi Aramco piping codes. If more than one
instrument are sharing a common root valve, means to isolate each
instrument independently shall be provided.
Commentary Note:
The device manifold is acceptable to provide the required isolation at the

end-use device in clean/non-plugging services when multiple devices
share a common root valve connection.
6.5.2 Process connections for direct-mounted instruments shall be located

where line vibration is negligible.
6.5.3 For low-pressure service, e.g., furnace draft, the instrument is to be

mounted at the same elevation or above the pressure tap.
6.5.4 All pressure instrument installations shall be equipped with vent/drain

valves.
7 Level Measurement
7.1 Standpipes
7.1.1 When several instruments are required on a vessel for control and
monitoring purposes, a common standpipe should be used. The process
shall be non-plugging, the tap nozzle size shall be at least 2 inches and
the common isolation valves on the tap nozzle shall be car sealed open.
For details of a typical standpipe refer to Library Drawing DC-950045.
7.1.2 Standpipes on spheroids shall be fabricated from 6 inch (NPS) carbon

steel pipe. Standpipes shall be supported from the spheroid shell.
Standpipe connections to the spheroid shall be made by a 2 inch and
a 3 inch isolating gate valve, located at the top and bottom of the
standpipe, respectively. Both valves shall be in the lock-open (LO)
position and car sealed.
7.1.3 Standpipe and individual level instruments shall be connected directly to

vessels and not to inlet or outlet piping. All connections shall be free
draining. Connections to the bottom of vessels shall be avoided
whenever possible. However, when used, bottom vessel connections
shall include an internal nozzle extension to reduce bottom solids from
entering the standpipe.
Page 13 of 35
7.1.4 Standpipes shall be insulated when the operational temperatures ranges

are either above 70°C or below 0°C.
Commentary Note:
Standpipes shall not be used in low temperature service, i.e., -7°C or

below.
7.1.5 Standpipes shall not be used for ESD functions.

Exceptions:
ESD Level transmitters may use the same process taps as the process control
or monitoring transmitters when the tap nozzle size is at least
2 inches, the process is non-plugging and the common isolation valves on the
tap nozzle are car sealed open. In addition, ESD and process control level
transmitters shall have independent level bridle isolation valves and should be
calibrated for the same range
7.1.6 Standpipes shall not be used on packed towers, across filter pads,
demister pads, in viscous service and in applications where materials
being handled contain high concentrations of solids.
7.1.7 For applications, highly sensitive to density change, the use of stand pipe
shall be reviewed and approved by proponent.
7.1.8 When required, a dedicated standpipe shall be provided for vessel boots.
The standpipe for vessel level measurement shall not be used for boot
level measurement.
7.2 Block Valves
7.2.1 Capability to isolate each individual instrument from the process shall be
provided by an instrumentation root valve installed as close as possible
to the vessel or standpipe connection. Valves shall be in accordance
with piping specifications. No fittings shall be allowed between this
primary block valve and the connecting boss, except for a single pipe
nipple. Threaded connections between the root valve and the boss shall
be seal or bridge welded per Standard Drawing AB-036521.
7.2.2 Level instruments which discharge energy directly into the process shall
have their sensor electronics certified for the electrical area classification
inside the vessel.

Page 14 of 35
7.3 Local Level Indicating Gauge
The design of process or safety system level instruments shall include an

associated local level gauge (sight glass or magnetic level indicator MLI) to
allow calibration, range checking, and visual level verification over the
calibrated range of the instrument. MLI should be considered the first option
when selecting level gauges
7.3.1 Sight Level Gauge Glasses
7.3.1.1 Sight level gauge glasses in hydrocarbon service shall be

transparent or reflex type heat-resistant glass with chambers
machined from solid bar alloy steel and with drop-forged alloy
steel covers. Area lighting shall be provided for all gauges
installed in poorly lighted areas. Gauge illumination shall also
be provided to all transparent gauges where readings are taken
at night or are vital for safe operation of the process.
7.3.1.2 The pressure and temperature ratings of the gauge glasses shall
be equal to or higher than the vessel design pressure and
temperature. Minimum rating for the reflex type shall be
14,000 kPa (2,000 psig) at 40°C, and for the transparent type
7,000 kPa (1,000 psig) at 40°C.
7.3.1.3 Gauge glass gaskets shall be graphoil or graphite-impregnated

type material. The gasket material must be asbestos-free and
capable of sealing under the continuous pressure and
temperature conditions set forth in previous paragraph.
7.3.1.4 Frost gauges shall be specified for low temperature service

below -7°C. Lucite or suitable alternative frost shields shall be
included and shall extend through the gauge glass insulation.
7.3.1.5 Gauge glasses shall not be used on refrigerated storage tanks.

Refer to SAES-B-057.
7.3.1.6 For pressurized storage vessels, gauge glasses shall be installed

only if required for calibration of other instruments. The gauge
glass shall be a single 320 mm gauge with ball check gauge
cocks. The gauge glass shall be installed at the elevation
required to calibrate the other instrument. The other instrument
may be local or remote indicating.

Page 15 of 35
7.3.1.7 Ball check type gauge cocks shall not be used in dirty services
where waxy or gummy components exist and deposition can
lead to potential blockage of the ball check flow passages.
For corrosive service, the gage cock body and trim shall be
made from corrosion resistant alloys which are compatible with
the process fluids. The minimum requirement for corrosive
service is 316 stainless steel stem, seat and ball check.
7.3.1.8 Installation details should follow Library Drawing DB-950046.
7.3.2 Magnetic Level Indicator Gauges (MLI)
7.3.2.1 An MLI shall be used for dangerous or toxic services or

services in which obstruction or coating, due to process fluid
nature, is very likely.
7.3.2.2 MLI assemblies shall be installed only in areas that are free of
physical forces or materials that would adversely affect the
magnetic operation of the system.
7.3.2.3 MLIs shall not be installed in dirty or plugging service where

debris or buildup can cause float sticking.
Commentary Note:
Plugging service will require frequent flushing and purging and

the selection of MLI shall be concurred by the operating facility.
7.3.2.4 MLI assemblies shall be minimum 1.5 inch NPT or 2 inch RF

flanged, class 150 and 40S chamber of 2 inch diameter.
Installation is similar to external cage displacers - refer to
Library Drawing DB-950047.
Commentary Notes:
Oversized chambers with guide rods are recommended for

applications where the process fluid may boil or flash due to
temperature differences between the process vessel and gage
column. This type of chamber configuration is recommended
for all light end hydrocarbon applications where the normal
operating temperature is below 0°C to prevent the float from
sinking.
Magnetic bargraph/flag type indicators are recommended.

Follower, shuttle or any alternate indicator that utilizes a single
component for level indication are not advised.

Page 16 of 35
7.4 GWR Guided Wave Radar
7.4.1 Single probe GWR shall be used for liquid level and liquid-liquid
interface level measurement technology - for both process and ESD
applications. Other level measurement technology may be used if the
single rod GWR is not suited to the application.
Commentary Notes:
GWR technology is not recommended for large emulsion layer interface

detection such as inside GOSP desalters and dehydrators.
Non-contact ‘free space’ process radar shall not be used except for level
applications inside open tanks, portable water tanks and sewage water sump.
Twin probe and coaxial GWR shall not be used.
7.4.2 Any ‘dead zones’ on the wave guide probe shall be designed outside the
operating range of the GWR instrument. In no case shall a process level
be capable of entering a probe ‘dead zone’.
7.4.3 Flushing ports shall be provided for all wave guide probes in viscous or
dirty service.
7.4.4 GWR wave guide probes shall be mounted such that they may be
removed while the process remains in-service. For pressurized process
vessels, probes shall be flange mounted in external bypass chambers.
For typical installation, refer to Detail-4 of Library Drawing DB-950047.
For underground vessels and where it is not practical to install GWR in
bypass chambers insertion type may be used given there are means for
verification and calibration.
7.4.5 GWR Bypass chamber material shall meet the requirements of the
application, and be steel construction minimum. Chamber connections
for non-plugging services shall be minimum 2 inches for flanged on the
top, bottom, or sides. The chamber connections for potential plugging
services shall be at least 3 inches.
7.4.6 Appropriate GWR process valves and connections shall be provided for
process isolation and for GWR calibration. Such connections shall
include a vent.
7.4.7 Dual chamber GWR with MLI designs shall only be permitted when
installing onto existing vessels where spare nozzles aren’t available or
where it is impracticable to install a suitable standpipe.

Page 17 of 35
7.4.8 All GWRs shall be configured and commissioned by the manufacturers

or a manufacturer-certified representitive.
7.5 Differential Pressure Level Transmitters
7.5.1 Differential pressure level transmitters may be used for process and ESD
level and for liquid-liquid interface level measurements if Radar (GWR
or non-contact) is not suitable for the application. Transmitters with
diaphragm seals shall be used for process fluids that are highly viscous,
containing entrained solids, highly toxic or in hot service.
7.5.2 Use of DP transmitter for refrigerated LPG tank level service should be
considered only when GWR level measurement is not feasible for the
application. Differential pressure level transmitters in refrigerated LPG
service shall be installed above the process connections with dry pressure
sensing legs. The pressure sensing legs shall be sufficiently heated so
that any fluid in the sensing lines remains in a gaseous state at all times.
7.5.3 A diaphragm seal type installation shall include drain valves between the
process vessel block valves and the diaphragm seal - on both high and
low pressure sides of the transmitter. Diaphragm seal transmitters shall
be mounted at or below the lower vessel connection, preferably 1.4 m
above grade or operating platform.
7.6 Displacement Level Transmitters
7.6.1 Displacement level transmitters may be used for liquid level ranges up to
and including 1,830 mm (72 in). Use of this technology shall be limited
to non-viscous process fluids with low concentration of solids.
Displacement transmitters shall be considered for a specific application
only if radar or differential pressure level devices are not suitable.
Commentary Note:
Distinction must be made between displacement and float devices.

Displacer elements are heavier than the liquid being measured, and
remain stationary. The measurement signal is derived from the buoyancy
effect due to immersion in a liquid. A float device on the other hand,
moves with the liquid level and the measurement signal is derived from
the float motion or position. The 1,830 mm restriction applies only to
displacers.
7.6.2 Displacement level transmitters shall normally be installed in cages

external to the process vessel, to allow for maintenance without process
interruption or hazard.

Page 18 of 35
7.6.3 An air-fin extension shall be provided between the level sensing element
and the transmitter, for applications where fluid temperatures will exceed
200°C.
7.6.4 As a minimum, displacers shall be minimum 316 stainless steel with 316
stainless steel or Inconel torque tubes. For low temperature and other
severe service applications materials compatible with the process shall
be specified on the ISS.
7.6.5 Displacer chambers shall have 1.5 inch NPT or 2 inch flanged
connections. All displacer chambers shall have a rotatable head flange.
All chambers shall be provided with a top flange to facilitate cleaning
and removal of the displacer. For additional details on piping
connections refer to Library Drawing DB-950047.
7.7 Capacitance Level Transmitters
7.7.1 Capacitance-type level instruments shall be considered only where radar,

differential pressure, or displacer type level devices are not suitable.
Capacitance probes shall not be used in liquids that contain entrained gas.
7.7.2 Capacitance probes shall not be used as primary emergency shut-down

devices.
7.7.3 Automatic temperature compensation shall be provided in probe circuitry

for liquids in which the dielectric constant changes as a function of
temperature.
7.7.4 The preferred vessel installation is with a sealed isolating valve to allow
the probe to be removed without releasing the process pressure.
7.8 Nuclear Level Transmitters
7.8.1 Nuclear level instruments shall be considered only where radar,

differential pressure, or displacer type level devices are not suitable.
Such as GOSP desalters and dehydrators with large emulsion layers.
7.8.2 Both external and internal radiation detectors are acceptable given the
full measuring range is covered by the device.
7.9 Level Switches
7.9.1 A dedicated, level switch shall only be used when radar, differential
pressure, or displacer level transmitters are not practical for the

Page 19 of 35
application. Emergency shutdown functions shall not be combined with

control functions, refer to SAES-J-601, for details.
Commentary Note:
The vibronic/vibration fork is the prefered level switch type.
7.9.2 On-Off Control
Internal tandem type displacement or vibronic switches may be used for

start-stop of pumps, open-close control of valves, initiation of high-low
alarms, or combinations of these functions.
7.9.3 External level switches shall be supplied with steel chambers, having a
flanged closure for internal inspection. The minimum flange rating for
the level switch chamber shall be Class 150. Float and trim material
shall be 316 stainless steel or as otherwise specified in the instrument
specification sheet. Process connections shall be minimum 1 inch NPT.
7.9.4 For non-corrosive service, a magnet-type actuated switch is acceptable.

Switches with packed gland connections between float and switch shall
not be used.
7.9.5 Each external level switch shall have its own individual vessel or
standpipe connections. The level chamber shall be installed with the
longitudinal axis vertical. For details of typical installations refer to
Library Drawings DB-950047 and DB-950048.
7.9.6 Level switches shall be hermetically sealed or totally encapsulated

mechanical microswitches. Mercury switches shall not be used.
Switch contacts shall be wired in a fail-safe, de-energize to alarm design.
For example, contacts shall be closed during normal process levels.
The contacts shall open at abnormal levels to alarm. Vibronic switches
shall be supplied with a self-test diagnostic facility.
7.10 Ball Float Level Controllers
Ball float controllers are acceptable only for air conditioning plants, water basins
and non-critical utility services. They shall not be used for level control in
process vessels.
7.11 Ultrasonic Level Measurement
Ultrasonic level measurement shall be avoided. Ultrasonic level measurement

shall not be used in oily water sump pits or dedicated hydrocarbon applications.
Page 20 of 35
7.12 Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG) Systems
Single probe GWR shall be used for level and level based volume measurements
on all hydrocarbon inventory tanks and tank farms.
Radar Tank Gauging (RTG) can be used only if the single probe GWR is not
suitable for the given applications. Hydrostatic Tank Gauging (HTG), Servo
Tank Gauging (STG), or float and tape based tank level gauges shall not be
used.
Commentary Note:
For inventory tank gauging using GWR, the installation shall satisfy the required
intrinsic and installed accuracies as specified in API MPMS 3.1B.
7.12.1 Fixed Roof Tanks without Still Wells
7.12.1.1 GWR
Probe shall be installed correctly to avoid the probe sway, and

shall be per vendor’s installation recommendations.
7.12.1.2 RTG
7.12.1.2.1 Cone or planar type microwave antennas shall be

used on all clean products. The antenna shall be
installed such that the microwaves can travel un-
obstructed to the tank bottom. Obstacles, such as
pipes and mixers, shall be designed around based
on the RTG vendors’ requirements.
7.12.1.2.2 For condesing products that result in heavy

deposits (e.g., asphalt and fuel oils), the antenna
design shall be such that minor deposits or
condensation will not disrupt level measurement
accuracy. A cleaning hatch or means to quickly
remove and clean the antenna shall be provided.
The selection of antennas and installation details
must be reviewed and concurred by the selected
vendor.

Page 21 of 35
7.12.2 Floating Roof or Internal Floating Pan Tanks with Still Wells
7.12.2.1 GWR
The GWR shall be able to operate within a still well, and

shall be installed correctly to avoid probe sway. The GWR
7.12.2.2 RTG
RTGs especially designed to operate within a still well shall

be utilized. The gauge shall use low loss circular microwave
transmission mode to eliminate measurement errors due to
corrosion of the still well interior wall.
7.12.3 Spheroid or Pressurized Tanks
7.12.3.1 General
7.12.3.1.1 GWR is the preferred technology for this

application.
7.12.3.1.2 Refrigerated LPG tanks shall be provided with

two (redundant) automatic tank gauging systems.
7.12.3.1.3 For additional guidance, please refer to

API MPMS 14.8.
7.12.3.2 GWR
Probe shall be installed correctly to avoid probe sway, and

7.12.3.3 RTG
7.12.3.3.1 RTGs, designed for LPG/LNG service, shall be

mounted on a 4 inch NPS still well to minimize
the impact of waves and surface boiling on the
measurement accuracy. Pressure and temperature
measurements are required to compensate for
composition changes in the vapor space.
7.12.3.3.2 The bottom datum plate and vendor supplied

reference pins shall be installed on the still well
per vendor requirements, to permit on-line
Page 22 of 35
calibration and future verification of the level.

However, at least one verification pin must be
placed above the maximum working level of the
tank to permit on-line calibration checks when
the tank is full. The orientation of the reference
pins shall be permanently marked on the still
well flange and shall be within ±2 degrees.
7.12.3.3.3 Isolation block and bleed valves shall be

provided to facilitate safe removal of the gauge
head for in-service maintenance.
7.12.4 Still Well Design
The still well shall be designed and installed based on Standard Drawing
AA-036256, or vendor requirements, or API MPMS 3.1B.
7.12.5 Still Well Design for Pressurized Vessels
For all pressurized vessel applications, a still well shall be provided, if

recommended by vendors. The still well shall be fabricated from
seamless, 316 stainless steel pipe, and shall be designed and installed per
ATG vendor requirements.
7.12.6 Gauging Hatch
For all atmospheric tanks, a reference gauge hatch shall be provided in

close proximity to the ATG, for manual ullage measurements and
periodic accuracy verification. See Standard Drawing AA-036256.
7.12.7 Maintenance Access Requirements
Sufficient access space above the tank in the X-Y-Z planes shall be
provided to facilitate easy removal of the gauge. These dimensions
should be in accordance with the vendor’s recommendations.
7.12.8 Product Temperature Measurement
Permanently installed, a single spot or multiple spot temperature

elements shall be used whenever the functional specification requires
automatic computation of Gross Standard Volume (GSV) or Net
Standard Volume (NSV). The selection, design, and installation shall be
per API MPMS 7, “Temperature Determination.”

Page 23 of 35
7.12.9 Intrinsic Accuracy
The laboratory tested accuracy of the gauge shall be equal to or better

than ±3 mm over the entire range of the ATG. Vendors shall provide
certified test data to support their claims.
7.12.10 Operator Interface Unit
A Personal Computer (PC) based Human Machine Interface (HMI)

and an industrial grade printer, shall be provided whenever the ATG
system is not directly interfaced with a plant Digital Control System
(DCS) or a host computer. The HMI shall be capable of handling
configuration data, tank level displays and alarming functions.
7.12.11 Configuration
The ATG system shall be configurable via the field bus from a control
room installed personal computer or the plant host computer, running
vendor compatible tank farm management software. No external
(mechanical) zero or span adjustments are permitted. For single or
stand-alone installations without a field bus, calibration with a hand
held programming device is acceptable.
7.12.12 Data Security
The ATG system shall be equipped with either a hard or soft switch,
such that tank configuration data in the gauge head can be protected
from accidental erasure. The tank management software shall have a
password protection scheme to prevent accidental changes in the tank
configuration data.
7.12.13 Safety Requirements
For RTG, during normal operation, bench testing or field service,

shall not generate microwave power levels hazardous to humans.
The maximum power level shall not exceed 2 milliwatts. The RTG
shall have approval from the Federal Communication Commission
(FCC, USA) and the Saudi Arabian Standards Organization (SASO).
The vendor shall provide certification documentation to Saudi Aramco,
upon request.
7.12.14 For high power RTG system, a local power disconnect switch, which is
easily accessible to an operator shall be provided preferably at the
gauge head.
Page 24 of 35
7.12.15 Verification Requirements
The frequency and procedure to verify the installed accuracy for ATG
system shall be per API MPMS 3.1B. The installed accuracy of both
systems must be verified by comparing the level readings against
manual gauging. Manual gauging shall comply with API MPMS 3.1A.
7.12.16 Water Tanks
For water storage tanks, GWR and noncontact radar are recommended.
7.13 Independent Inventory Tank High High Level Alarms
7.13.1 An independent High High (HH) level alarm shall be provided on all
atmospheric hydrocarbon storage tanks. This alarm shall be activated
by a level transmitter which is completely independent of the inventory
level monitoring ATG system. The independent HH level alarm shall
annunciate in the control room, and if required, either divert the
incoming flow or close the inlet valve per requirements specified by
the proponent organization. The independent alarm and level
transmitter system for this application shall not fail undetected.
The alarm set point on the inventory ATG system shall be set such that
approximately ten minutes time interval is available before the
independent HH level alarm is reached. The interval computation shall
be based on nominal fill rate.
7.13.2 For pressurized or refrigerated hydrocarbon vessels, alarm

requirements specified in SAES-B-057 shall apply.
Commentary Note:
This requirement is applicable to all new construction and major tank

farm Instrumentation upgrade projects. This requirement is not
retroactive to existing facilities. However, the Safe Operating
Committee (SOC) for each effected plant should evaluate potential
exposure, risk and the need to add the HH level alarm provision.
8 Temperature Measurement
8.1 Thermowells
8.1.1 General
All temperature sensing elements shall be installed in thermowells.

Page 25 of 35
Exception:
Sensors for bearing, motor winding, furnace, skin or surface temperature

measurement, ambient air, electronic equipment cabinets. (However, a
mechanical protection sleeve shall be considered for the sensors in the
area where there is possibility of damage such as pump bearings.)
8.1.2 Design
8.1.2.1 Flanged thermowells are highly recommended. Flanged

thermowells shall be used in ANSI Class 900 or greater or
process temperature exceeding 535°C.
8.1.2.2 Weld-in thermowells shall only be used when ASME or Saudi

Aramco standards or specifications require welded connections.
8.1.2.3 Thermowells shall be 316 stainless steel unless alternative

metallurgy is specified or dictated by process conditions.
8.1.2.4 Thermowells shall be constructed and installed in accordance

with Standard Drawing AB-036019 or API RP 551 Figure 3.
Note: Threaded thermowells with ¾-inch NPT process
connections shall be used only when required to replace
existing ¾-inch thermowells.
8.1.2.5 Flanged thermowells shall be furnished with ASME B16.5

flanges. Flange size shall be minimum 1-½ inch, 150 # RF.
8.1.2.6 Standard thermowell bore selection for threaded and flanged

thermowells is 0.260 inch. The thermowell bore may be
increased to 0.385 inch where required (e.g., filled systems).
For the flanged thermowell the tip diameter shall then be
increased to 0.75 inch.
8.1.2.7 Use of any special design thermowell, such as helical type shall
be avoided.
8.1.3 Insertion Length
8.1.3.1 Initial insertion length “U” for thermowells in process piping

shall be per Standard Drawing AB-036019.
Note: The final selection may be shorter based on wake
frequency calculations.

Page 26 of 35
8.1.3.2 For process vessels and columns, the maximum insertion length
shall be 600 mm (24 inches).
Exception:
For catalyst bed and other similar temperature profile

measurements, extended thermowells are allowed.
Extended thermowells shall be in a vertical orientation if
feasible or supported such that vibration/gravity/ flow effects
shall not cause fatigue or deformation failure of the thermowell.
8.1.3.3 The immersion of thermowell exposed to fluid flow shall be

sufficient, considering the projection length of the nozzle
connection.
8.1.4 Thermowell Vibration and Stress
8.1.4.1 Natural frequency and wake frequency calculations

shall be performed on each thermowell application,
per ASME PTC 19.3.
8.1.4.2 Standard U-lengths should be chosen whenever possible.
8.1.4.3 For flanged thermowells, where the calculated U-length ends

up being too short for good heat transfer, external dimensions
such as root and tip diameter may be increased to lower the
wake frequency and increase the resonant frequency.
Collars shall not be used.
8.1.4.4 Maximum process pressure and static stress calculations shall be

performed on each thermowell application, per ASME PTC 19.3.
Note: Pressure and static stress effects may combine with
wake frequency vibration to cause failure of thermowells.
8.2 Thermocouple Instruments
8.2.1 Thermocouple Selection
8.2.1.1 Thermocouple construction, properties, calibration, color

coding, and limits of error shall comply with ISA/ANSI
MC96.1.
8.2.1.2 Thermocouple selection shall be determined by the temperature

range to be measured. Type E, Type J, and Type K
thermocouples are typically used in Saudi Aramco facilities.

Page 27 of 35
Note: Type J TCs contain iron wire which is subject to

corrosion in many locations.
8.2.2 Thermocouple Design and Installation
8.2.2.1 Thermocouples shall be insulated with packed magnesium

oxide and protected with a ¼-inch o.d., 316 stainless steel
sheath. Alternative sheath metallurgy may be used if required
by process conditions.
8.2.2.2 Thermocouples may either be grounded or ungrounded.

With either type, single-point grounding of the signal loop must
be observed. Ungrounded TCs shall be used to measure
differential or average temperature.
Note: Grounded thermocouples are preferred due to quicker
response, and to consistently ground the signal wiring at the
thermocouple end of the loop. Grounded junction TCs will not
give accurate measurements when connected together to
measure differential or average temperature.
8.2.2.3 Thermocouples shall be installed in thermowells such that the

end of the thermocouple is in contact with the bottom of the
thermowell. Spring-loaded thermocouples are preferred to
insure positive contact with the thermowell.
8.2.2.4 Dual element thermocouples are permitted when their intended

function is to provide a spare thermocouple element for a single
receiving instrument. A dual element thermocouple shall not
be used to provide separate signals to different instruments or
redundant inputs to a logic control system.
8.2.3 Thermocouple Extension Wire
8.2.3.1 Thermocouple extension wire shall be suitable for the specific

type of thermocouple being connected. Thermocouple
extension wire shall meet the requirements of ISA/ANSI
MC96.1 and 34-SAMSS-913 and shall be installed in
accordance with SAES-J-902. Each pair shall be individually
twisted and shielded.
8.2.3.2 For grounded thermocouples, the extension wire shield drain

wire shall be grounded at the thermocouple head. The continuity
of the shield shall be maintained through junction boxes and
transitions from single pair to multipair cables. The shield and
Page 28 of 35
drain wire shall be cut and secured (insulated) at the receiving

instrument end of the extension wire.
8.2.3.3 For ungrounded thermocouples, the extension wire shield drain

wire shall be grounded at the receiving instrument end to the
instrument circuit ground. The continuity of the shield shall be
maintained through junction boxes and transitions from single
pair to multipair cables. The shield and drain wire shall be cut
and secured (insulated) at the thermocouple end of the
extension wire.
8.2.3.4 The overall shield of a multicore thermocouple extension cable

shall be grounded to the instrument circuit ground at the
receiving instrument end.
8.2.3.5 Thermocouple extension wire shall be terminated on terminal

blocks. The number of intermediate terminations in a
thermocouple loop should be minimized as much as
practicable. As long as the terminal block is at a constant
temperature along its length and is of homogeneous material,
the conducting terminal needs not be constructed of like
thermocouple material.
8.3 Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) Instruments
8.3.1 RTD Selection
8.3.1.1 Resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) shall be used when

greater accuracy is required than is possible through the use of
thermocouples.
Note: RTDs are preferred over thermocouples for most
temperature sensing applications within Saudi Aramco.
RTDs may be used for measuring temperatures up to
approximately 650°C (1200°F). Above this temperature,
thermocouples should be used.
8.3.1.2 Platinum RTDs conforming to IEC 60751, with an alpha

coefficient of 0.00385 ohm/ohm/°C and tolerance Class A shall
be used. Resistance shall be 100 ohms at 0°C.
Note: IEC 60751 matches DIN 43760 (Obsolete) and
DIN EN 60751.
8.3.1.3 100-ohm platinum RTDs conforming to SAMA RC21-4-1966,

with an alpha coefficient of 0.00392 ohm/ohm/°C shall only be
Page 29 of 35
used when replacing existing RTDs with the same alpha

coefficient.
8.3.2 RTD Design and Installation
8.3.2.1 RTDs shall be insulated with packed magnesium oxide and

protected with a ¼-inch o.d., 316 stainless steel sheath.
Alternative sheath metallurgy may be used if required by
process conditions.
8.3.2.2 Three-wire RTDs shall be used to eliminate lead wire resistance

effects from the temperature measurement. For temperature
measurement requiring maximum accuracy, four-wire RTDs
shall be used.
8.3.2.3 RTDs shall be installed in thermowells such that the end of the
RTD is in contact with the bottom of the thermowell.
Spring-loaded RTDs are preferred to insure positive contact
with the thermowell.
8.3.2.4 Dual element RTDs are permitted when their intended function
is to provide a spare RTD element for a single receiving
instrument. A dual element RTD shall not be used to provide
separate signals to different instruments or redundant inputs to
a logic control system.
8.3.2.5 Extension wire for RTD signals shall consist of shielded,

twisted triad copper conductors meeting the requirements of
34-SAMSS-913. Wiring shall be installed in accordance with
SAES-J-902.
Exception:
When four-wire RTDs are used in a true 4-wire configuration,

two shielded, twisted pair extension wires may be used.
8.3.2.6 The extension wire shield drain wire shall be grounded at the
receiving instrument end to the instrument circuit ground.
The continuity of the shield shall be maintained through
junction boxes and transitions from single pair to multipair
cables. The shield and drain wire shall be cut and secured
(insulated) at the RTD end of the extension wire.

Page 30 of 35
8.3.2.7 The overall shield of a multicore RTD extension cable shall be

grounded to the instrument circuit ground at the receiving
instrument end.
8.3.2.8 Due to expected high vibration, RTDs shall not be used on the
discharge flange of a gas compressor.
8.4 Bimetallic Thermometers
8.4.1 Bimetallic dial thermometers shall be used wherever local temperature

indication is required.
8.4.2 Thermometers shall have a ¼-inch O.D., 316 stainless steel stem.
Alternative stem metallurgy may be used if required by process
conditions.
8.4.3 Thermometers shall be installed in thermowells.
8.4.4 The thermometer stem shall be in contact with the bottom of the
thermowell.
8.4.5 Dial size shall be 127 mm (5 in). The angle of view and orientation of
the dial shall be adjustable. The dial shall be readable from grade,
platform, or permanent ladder and shall face the point where any
corrective action will be taken.
8.4.6 When subject to vibration, thermometers shall be sealed and filled with
silicone oil.
8.5 Filled System Instruments
8.5.1 Filled System Selection
8.5.1.1 Filled system temperature sensing instruments shall be used

only for noncritical, local indication, where precise temperature
control is not necessary.
Note: Due to the lower accuracy and repeatability associated
with filled systems compared to thermocouple or RTD-based
sensors, as well as the distance limits dictated by capillary
length, filled systems should be limited to local control or
indication.
8.5.1.2 The fill fluid may be either liquid or gas, depending on the
temperature range of the process being measured.

Page 31 of 35
8.5.1.3 Filled system temperature instruments shall always be provided

with a matching thermowell. The thermowell shall comply
with this standard.
Note: Since there is no standard bulb diameter among
different manufacturers, it is essential that a thermowell
matched to the specific instrument be provided by the
instrument manufacturer.
8.5.2 Thermometers
8.5.2.1 Filled system thermometers shall be used only when access,

process conditions, or mechanical considerations preclude the
use of bimetallic thermometers.
8.5.2.2 Thermometers shall have uniform dial graduations.

Note: Depending on the fill fluid, dial graduations may be
non-uniform, with the scale compressed at the lower end of
the scale, or uniform, with equal scale graduations around
the dial. For most applications, thermometers with uniform
dial graduations are available.
8.5.2.3 Mercury-filled thermometers shall not be used.
8.6 Electronics
8.6.1 All thermocouple and RTD instruments shall provide burnout detection.
The direction of the readout or output signal on thermocouple burnout
shall be selectable.
8.6.2 Temperature elements shall not be connected to more than one receiving
instrument.
8.6.3 Transmitters
8.6.3.1 Transmitters shall provide input and output signal isolation,

cold junction compensation, linearization/characterization,
ambient temperature compensation, and adjustable damping.
8.6.3.2 Transmitters shall be mounted remotely from the

element/thermowell assembly.
8.6.3.3 A local temperature indicator shall be provided for each

transmitter. The local indicator may be an integral part of the
transmitter or a separate device, but must be readable from
grade, platform, or permanent ladder.
Page 32 of 35
8.6.4 Switches
8.6.4.1 Electric switch contacts shall be snap-acting, single-pole,

double-throw (SPDT), 5 amps at 120 VAC resistive, as a
minimum. The switch mechanism shall be user-selectable to
activate on increasing or decreasing temperature.
8.6.4.2 The switch shall provide cold junction compensation for

thermocouples.
8.6.5 Multipoint Indicators and Multiplexers
8.6.5.1 Multipoint temperature indicators shall consist of a panel-

mounted readout and a means of selecting the desired element
to display.
8.6.5.2 Multiplexers shall take the signals from a number of elements

as inputs and provide an output to a logic control system (DCS,
PLC, etc.).
8.6.5.3 Multipoint indicators and multiplexers shall provide

linearization, cold junction compensation, and scaling of the
element input signals.
8.6.5.4 Signals from multipoint indicators or multiplexers shall not be

used for control.
8.6.5.5 A maximum of 100 inputs (including spares) shall be permitted

per multipoint indicator or multiplexer. Recommended spare
capacity is 25% of the number of occupied inputs.
Revision Summary
16 June 2016 Major revision has been carried out as part of the optimization initiative for Instrumentation
MSAERs.
12 October 2017 Major revision mainly to allow a single probe GWR for Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG)
system.
1 January 2018 Editorial revision to modify paragraphs 8.1.2.7, 8.2.2.1, 8.3.2.1, and 8.4.2.
08 May 2019 Editorial revision to comply with content confirmation

Page 33 of 35
Appendix 1 - Minimum Straight Run Lengths for Orifice Plates

without Flow Conditioners in Accordance with ISO 5167-2
NOTES:
 S is the separation between the two bends measured from the downstream end of the curved portion of the upstream
bend to the upstream end of the curved portion of the downstream bend.
 Column A is for lengths corresponding to “zero additional uncertainty” values intended for high accuracy meters.
 Column B is for lengths corresponding to “0,5% additional uncertainty” values intended for control and monitoring.
 For additional information refer to ISO-5167-2 for Orifice Plates.

Page 34 of 35

for Classical Venturis in Accordance with ISO 5167-4
NOTES:
 Downstream straight lengths is 4D for zero additional uncertainty and 2D of 0,5% additional uncertainty
 a
The radius of curvature of the bend shall be greater than or equal to the pipe diameter.
 b
Column A for lengths corresponding to “zero additional uncertainty” values.
 c
Column B for lengths corresponding to “0,5 % additional uncertainty” values.
 d
The straight length in Column A gives zero additional uncertainty; data are not available for shorter straight lengths
which could be used to give the required straight lengths for Column B.

Page 35 of 35

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Engineering Standard

SAES-J-100 08 May 2019

Previous Issue: 12 October 2017 Next Planned Update: 12 October 2020

©Saudi Aramco 2019. All rights reserved.

This standards is based on API RP 551, 2nd Edition, “Process Measurement”

2 Conflicts and Deviations

3.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedure

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

Saudi Aramco Materials System Specification

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Saudi Aramco Standard Drawings

Saudi Aramco Library Drawings

3.2 Industry Codes and Standards

American Gas Association (AGA)

American Petroleum Institute

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

API-14.3/AGA-3 are identical documents, so they can be used interchangeably.

API RP 551 Process Measurement, Second Edition

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

International Society for Measurement and Control (ISMC)

International Organization for Standardization

Scientific Apparatus Makers Association (SAMA)

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

4.1 Selection Criteria

4.1.1 The selection of process measurement instrumentation shall consider the

4.1.2 This standard is not intended to be an exclusive listing of all instruments

4.1.3 Selection of instrumentation for ESD service shall meet requirements of

4.1.4 Frequency/Stress calculation shall be performed on all intruding elements

4.2 Installation Requirement

4.2.1 All installation requirements shall follow SAES-J-003.

5 Process Flow Measurement

If operation requirements dictate high accuracy measurements, custody quality meters

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

5.1 Meter Sizing

5.1.1 Software sizing of orifices shall be done in accordance with API-14.3/

5.1.4 In general, differential pressure type flow instruments should be sized

5.1.5 Square root extractions in calculating flows from differential pressure

5.2 Installation and Piping

5.2.1 A line class root/isolation valve shall be provided at each process

Closed coupled instrument mounting systems and special manifolds that

valves shall meet or exceed applicable piping specifications for the

5.2.8 Flow measurements requiring temperature compensation thermowells

5.2.9 Unless otherwise required by the process or piping specifications, orifice

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

5.3 Orifice Meter

Integral orifices may be used in non-plugging service, meter size is less

5.3.6 When the static pressure compensation is required, the connection is

5.4 Flow Nozzles

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

5.5 Averaging Pitot Element

5.5.2 Manufacturer’s installation recommendations shall consider element

5.5.3 Pitot Elements shall only be installed in clean noncritical services. In

5.6.1 Fabrication and calculations of Venturi meters shall be in accordance to

5.6.2 Minimum straight run pipe length requirements shall be in accordance

5.7 Turbine Meter

5.7.1 Viscosity compensated turbine meters shall not be used.

5.7.3 The meter shall have a hydro-dynamically balanced design to minimize

5.7.4 Meters in process applications shall be sized to handle 120% of the

5.7.6 Turbine Flow Meters - Performance