By:
Paul Francoletti
Director of Product Sales – Mechanical
Published on:
January 26th, 2026
Topics:
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By:
Paul Francoletti
Director of Product Sales – Mechanical
Published on:
January 26th, 2026
Topics:
Ashcroft Critical Application Solution Experts® (CASE®) work customers to identify process challenges and recommend pressure instrumentation solutions designed to mitigate risk and improve safety.
This CASE study demonstrates how an application-specific solution helped improve protection and reduce risk in a critical pressure measurement application.
Customer / Application
A petroleum refinery operating a hydrofluoric acid (HF) alkylation unit. HF Alky units are used to convert isobutane and light olefins into alkylate for gasoline blending. These units involve highly hazardous process media and require stringent safety controls.
Challenge
Hydrofluoric acid is extremely corrosive and dangerous. In the event of a leak at the pressure instrument, HF can form a toxic vapor cloud, creating a serious safety risk for personnel and increasing regulatory and operational exposure.
Engineering Assessment
Ashcroft engineers conducted a site visit and reviewed the application and existing gauge configuration. The assessment identified a need for enhanced protection at the instrument interface to reduce the risk of HF leakage and improve operator awareness of seal integrity.
Solution
Ashcroft recommended a pressure gauge assembly incorporating an Acid Leak Detection (ALD) system designed specifically for HF service. The solution included:
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A tamper-proof design with the gauge welded to the diaphragm seal
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Visual indication to alert personnel of any leaking process media
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Dual containment to provide an additional layer of protection
Result
The upgraded gauge assembly improved personnel safety by reducing the risk of HF exposure, enhanced leak detection at the point of measurement, and supported safer operation of the HF alkylation unit.
Key takeaway
Critical process applications involving hazardous media require more than standard instrumentation. Application-specific evaluation and engineered solutions can significantly reduce risk and improve personnel safety at the point of measurement.
Ashcroft CASE® experts work closely with customers to assess critical applications and recommend solutions tailored to their operating conditions.
To learn more, review the related resources below. If you have questions or would like to schedule a CASE® Audit, contact Ashcroft to speak with a Critical Application Solution Expert®. In the meantime, download our guide, How to Avoid Pressure Equipment Failure, to learn practical strategies for improving pressure instrumentation reliability and safety.
