GF868 series is a customized host independently developed by GE Panametrics targeting flare gas working conditions, different from AT868 conventional gas transmitters and GC868 clamp-on gas instruments. Each code segment has fixed configuration definitions: the first digit stands for power grade; 31 corresponds to enclosure protection grade and extended I/O layout; 21A defines communication mode, analog output channel quantity and special anti-corrosion internal circuit configuration solidified by factory firmware. Matched with ILP-1 insertion ultrasonic probes, this device collects bidirectional ultrasonic time difference signals inside flare pipelines and calculates gas flow velocity, volumetric flow and temperature-pressure compensated mass flow via proprietary correlation transit-time algorithm.

Flare gas features complex components, severe turbulence, pressure pulsation and mixed tiny droplets. The built-in optimized echo recognition algorithm suppresses signal distortion and data fluctuation effectively, securing stable measurement data under variable flare discharge loads. The measurable pipe diameter covers a wide range from small branch pipes to large flare main headers, adapting to the actual operating characteristics of refinery and chemical plant flare systems. The measurement accuracy complies with environmental protection emission monitoring calibration standards, supporting long-term continuous data uploading for environmental reporting.

The casing adopts reinforced anti-corrosion cast aluminum structure with IP66 protection level. All internal circuit boards are coated with three-proof paint to resist damp, dust and weak acid volatile gas in flare areas and outdoor instrument shelters, stably running in ambient temperature of -20℃ ~ +60℃. The front LCD display and physical keys support on-site configuration of pipe parameters, gas component parameters, probe parameters and alarm thresholds. Field staff can directly check real-time mass flow, sound speed value, signal quality and system fault codes without extra configuration software.

Standard configuration includes multiple isolated 4–20mA analog outputs, RS485 Modbus communication and fault relay output terminals. Flow monitoring data can be transmitted to DCS, SCADA and environmental monitoring platforms synchronously to realize real-time emission recording, over-flow alarm and data filing required by environmental protection management. Equipped with matched original power supply board, the power loop is integrated with surge, overvoltage, overcurrent and short-circuit protection to resist harsh industrial power grid impact and protect core control chips.

Cooperated with dedicated shielded signal cables and hot-tap valve probe fixtures, the insertion measurement structure allows probe installation and maintenance without shutting down the flare system, eliminating production stop losses. Every GF868-1-31-21A passes flow bench calibration, long-time power aging test and communication function inspection before delivery with fixed 21A customized program parameters.

No mechanical wearing parts are arranged inside the transmitter body with low long-term failure rate. Internal power boards, display modules and signal boards can be replaced separately during failure maintenance, cutting equipment maintenance costs and downtime. This transmitter is widely used in petrochemical factory flare gas emission metering, refinery waste gas discharge monitoring and industrial flare pipeline safety flow control.