---
title: How to automate continuous sample flow at a cycling plant
description: The Sentry AutoVREL flow controller is designed for sample conditioning automation to meet sampling needs within a cycling power plant.
image: https://532305.hs-sites.com/hubfs/Images/Blog_Images/How_to_automate_continuous_sample_flow_at_a_cycling_plant.jpg
---
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## Production Process Insights
# How to automate continuous sample flow at a cycling plant
Posted by [Brad Taylor](https://532305.hs-sites.com/author/brad-taylor) on 7/6/16 8:39 AM March 26, 2021
Find me on:
[LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-k-taylor-2963517)
As large swings in power demand occur, the need for plant cycling grows.
However, within a cycling plant's steam and water program, the need to obtain representative samples to control temperature, pressure and flow rate remains.
Flow-rate in particular sees considerable impact during the course of 24 hours. System pressure goes from a low load (~25%) at night to 100% during the day. This extreme fluctuation exposes the need for control.
The primary control of sample pressure and flow rate in many power plants is the [Sentry® VREL®](http://sentry-equip.com/Products/Pressure-Reducing-Element.htm) control valve, which is a valve specifically designed to solve unique high-pressure sampling issues. The Sentry VREL is the industry standard for samples greater than 500 psig (34.5 barg) according to the Annual Book of ASTM Standards, ASTM Designation D3370.
The Sentry VREL consists of two stainless steel tubes joined to a large tube or barrel. A tapered rod assembly is inserted into precision holes in the barrel. The high pressure fluid enters, flows past one rod, turns and flows past the other rod, and then out. Pressure drop is a function of the length of the rods inserted into the barrel. The rod position is controlled externally by turning the knob, and can be adjusted while sample is flowing. If blockage occurs, the rods can be retracted so system pressure can blow the solid matter through.
## **Inconsistent sample flow in a cycling plant**
With some power plants losing internal expertise through employee retirement, and to stay cost-effective, there are fewer and fewer operators available to adjust the Sentry VREL daily as needed.
How does this affect daily operation? Depending on the conditions, one of two scenarios have been witnessed in the field:
- First, the Sentry VREL is adjusted to the proper flow rate at 100% of plant load. However, when the plant cycles low enough, the sample flow is lost completely and the chemical analyzers send an alarm to the control room.
- Second, the Sentry VREL is adjusted properly at low load. However, when the plant reaches 100% of its load, the sample flow rate is way too high. It is not uncommon to see dangerously high-temperature water spraying into the sink and/or splashing all over the floor.
Additionally, a constantly varying sample flow rate can cause soluble contaminants to become dislodged from piping and plug the tubing further downstream in the system. This unpredictable flow rate also can cause unneeded wear on components, wasted cooling water, and samples that are misrepresentative.
## **How to manage flow for representative samples**
Fortunately, there is an automated solution for obtaining representative samples within a cycling plant. The Sentry AutoVREL flow controller is designed for sample conditioning automation to meet the requirements of representative sampling, maintaining a constant flow rate with varying inlet conditions.
A flowmeter installed in the sample tubing provides automatic feedback to the Sentry AutoVREL flow controller, which in turn operates a motorized VREL unit. Setting the sample flow rate is as easy as adjusting a household thermostat – the operator just pushes the up or down arrows.
The [Sentry AutoVREL flow controller](http://sentry-equip.com/Products/AutoVREL) is available as an option on all Sentry steam and water sampling systems, and also [may be retrofitted](https://youtu.be/UzkRhZsH5VM) on systems currently in operation. See an overview of operation in the video below.
[](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/532305/83d6ce6a-3dbe-4193-832a-6560e1a10964)
Topics: [Power](https://532305.hs-sites.com/topic/power)
#### Written by [Brad Taylor](https://532305.hs-sites.com/author/brad-taylor)
As Vice President and General Manager, Brad Taylor applies his wealth of knowledge in global industrial manufacturing including operations, sales, engineering, and divisional leadership. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology from Milwaukee School of Engineering and MBA with a concentration in Finance.
### Related Posts
[Your Step-by-Step Video Guide to Installing an AutoVREL](https://532305.hs-sites.com/your-step-by-step-video-guide-to-installing-an-autovrel)
[Automate Sample Flow to Maximize Accuracy](https://532305.hs-sites.com/reducing-workload-for-plant-operators-automating-sample-flow)
[Safeguard Your SWAS: Update Your Components for Reliability](https://532305.hs-sites.com/safeguard-your-swas-update-your-components-for-reliability)
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