Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter

Overview

Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter | Portable Restricted Tank Gauging Instrument for Marine Cargo Measurement

In the marine transportation industry, cargo measurement is much more than recording liquid levels—it directly influences cargo quantity calculations, commercial settlements, vessel safety, and regulatory compliance. Every ullage reading, temperature measurement, and free-water check contributes to accurate cargo documentation and efficient tanker operations. For these reasons, marine operators rely on proven portable gauging instruments that deliver consistent performance in demanding environments.

The Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter is one of the industry's most established portable restricted gauging instruments, designed for petroleum cargo measurement aboard oil tankers, product tankers, chemical carriers, and shore storage facilities. It combines ullage measurement, temperature verification, and oil-water interface detection within a single portable device, allowing operators to complete essential cargo measurements quickly and accurately under restricted operating conditions.

Known throughout the industry as the Honeywell Hermetic RTEX, HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter, RTEX UTI Meter, and Honeywell UTI Meter, this instrument has earned a strong reputation for reliability, measurement stability, and ease of maintenance.

At Ship Care Service, we supply genuine Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meters, replacement components, accessories, and technical assistance for shipowners, marine service companies, offshore operators, cargo surveyors, and oil terminals worldwide.

What is the Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter?

The Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter is a portable electronic liquid level gauge developed for restricted gauging of petroleum products. Unlike a fully gas-tight closed gauging instrument, the RTEX is intended to operate with approved HERMetic vapour control valves under restricted conditions, making it suitable for many routine cargo measurement tasks on marine vessels and shore tanks.

The instrument enables operators to perform three essential measurements during one operation:

• Ullage measurement

• Product temperature verification

• Oil-water interface detection

This integrated approach reduces equipment changes during cargo inspections and improves efficiency during loading, discharge, and inventory verification.

Understanding Restricted Tank Gauging

Restricted gauging is an accepted cargo measurement method where the tank remains connected to a vapour-control arrangement while measurements are taken through an approved fitting. Compared with traditional open gauging, restricted operation reduces vapour release and improves operational safety, while remaining suitable for many petroleum cargo applications. The RTEX is specifically designed for this type of operation.

Why the HERMetic RTEX Remains Popular

Marine operators continue choosing the RTEX because it offers a balance of precision, durability, and ease of maintenance.

Key advantages include:

• Proven measurement repeatability

• Reliable electronic temperature sensing

• Accurate free-water detection

• Factory-calibrated sensor design

• Modular construction

• Simple battery replacement

• Interchangeable adaptors for different HERMetic vapour control valves

• Low maintenance requirements

How the Honeywell HERMetic RTEX Works

The RTEX uses a precision measuring tape connected to an electronic sensing probe.

During operation:

1. The instrument is connected to an approved HERMetic vapour control valve.

2. The operator lowers the probe into the cargo tank.

3. The electronic system continuously measures the probe position.

4. The RTD temperature sensor records cargo temperature.

5. The probe identifies the oil-water interface where applicable.

6. Measurement values are displayed for recording and cargo calculations.

An important design feature is that the sensor is factory calibrated, and its calibration data is stored within the sensor assembly. According to Honeywell, replacing the tape or sensor does not normally require recalibration because the sensor retains its own characteristics.

Key Features Explained

Three Measurements in One Operation

Instead of using separate instruments, the RTEX performs ullage, temperature, and interface measurements during a single operation, improving efficiency and reducing handling time.

High Measurement Accuracy

Honeywell specifies an ullage/interface accuracy of approximately ±2 mm and a tape accuracy of ±1.5 mm over 30 m, supporting reliable cargo quantity calculations.

Modular Design

The modular construction allows straightforward replacement of components such as tapes and sensors, helping reduce maintenance costs over the instrument's service life.

RTD Temperature Sensor

The RTEX incorporates an RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) sensor, providing stable and repeatable temperature measurements across a wide operating range.

Backlit LCD Display

A clear LCD display with backlighting enables operators to read measurements in daylight or low-light cargo deck conditions.

Battery Replacement

The approved 9V battery can be replaced quickly, minimizing downtime between cargo operations.

Typical Marine Applications

The Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter is widely used in:

• Crude Oil Tankers

• Product Tankers

• Chemical Tankers (compatible configurations)

• Offshore Loading Facilities

• Marine Oil Terminals

• Shore Tank Farms

• Petroleum Storage Depots

• Cargo Inspection Companies

• Independent Marine Survey Operations

Its primary roles include:

• Custody transfer

• Cargo quantity verification

• Inventory control

• Free-water detection

• Verification of automatic tank gauging systems

Honeywell RTEX vs Honeywell GTEX

Although both belong to the HERMetic UTImeter family, they are designed for different operating methods.

Choosing between RTEX and GTEX depends on your vessel's tank gauging arrangement, operating procedures, and cargo requirements.

Technical Specifications of Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter

The Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter has been engineered to provide dependable cargo measurements in demanding marine environments. While configurations may vary depending on tape length and probe selection, the RTEX shares several core characteristics that make it a preferred choice for professional cargo inspection.

Main Components of the RTEX UTI Meter

Understanding the individual components helps operators perform inspections more efficiently and simplifies routine maintenance.

Electronic Display Unit

The display unit acts as the control center of the instrument. It provides clear digital readings for ullage, product temperature, and interface detection. The backlit screen improves visibility during night operations or in low-light conditions commonly encountered on deck.

Precision Measuring Tape

The stainless-steel measuring tape is designed for repeated use in marine environments. It provides accurate depth measurements while resisting corrosion caused by saltwater exposure.

Routine inspection of the tape ensures long-term measurement reliability.

Electronic Measuring Probe

The probe is the most important sensing component of the instrument.

It performs three simultaneous functions:

• Detecting cargo surface

• Measuring cargo temperature

• Identifying the oil-water interface

The probe contains factory-calibrated electronics that help maintain consistent measurement performance.

Battery Compartment

The RTEX operates using a replaceable 9V battery. Easy battery access minimizes downtime during cargo operations and allows operators to restore power quickly when necessary.

Typical Cargo Measurement Procedure

Correct operating procedures are essential for achieving reliable measurement results.

Step 1 – Visual Inspection

Before use, inspect:

• Probe condition

• Tape cleanliness

• Display operation

• Battery status

• Connector condition

• Deck valve compatibility

Never use damaged measuring equipment during cargo operations.

Step 2 – Connect to HERMetic Valve

Attach the RTEX securely to the approved HERMetic vapour control valve.

Correct installation prevents unnecessary movement while lowering the probe.

Step 3 – Lower the Measuring Probe

The probe is lowered smoothly into the cargo tank.

Operators should avoid sudden movements that may affect measurement stability.

Step 4 – Measure Ullage

Once the probe reaches the cargo surface, the instrument records the ullage measurement.

This measurement becomes the basis for cargo volume calculations using the vessel's approved tank calibration tables.

Step 5 – Measure Product Temperature

Allow sufficient stabilization time for the RTD sensor before recording the temperature.

Accurate cargo temperature is essential because petroleum products expand and contract with temperature changes.

Step 6 – Detect Oil-Water Interface

If free water measurement is required, continue lowering the probe until the instrument detects the transition between oil and water.

This information is important before cargo loading, discharge, and cargo quality verification.

Step 7 – Record Measurement Results

Typical cargo documentation includes:

• Tank Number

• Ullage

• Product Temperature

• Water Bottom

• Date & Time

• Operator Name

• Cargo Type

Accurate record keeping supports inventory management and custody transfer.

Advantages of the Honeywell HERMetic RTEX

Faster Cargo Operations

Because three measurements are completed using a single portable instrument, inspection time is significantly reduced.

This improves operational efficiency during loading and discharge.

Improved Measurement Consistency

The factory-calibrated sensor design helps provide repeatable results over long periods of operation.

Consistent measurements are essential for commercial cargo calculations.

Reduced Equipment Handling

Operators no longer need multiple portable instruments for:

• Ullage

• Temperature

• Interface

The RTEX performs all three tasks within one system.

Lower Maintenance Costs

The modular design allows many components to be replaced individually rather than replacing the complete instrument.

This reduces lifetime ownership costs.

Proven Marine Reliability

The RTEX has been successfully used aboard commercial tankers worldwide for many years.

Its simple construction and durable design make it well suited to demanding marine environments.

Common Operational Problems

Although the Honeywell HERMetic RTEX is highly reliable, improper handling, mechanical damage, or lack of maintenance can lead to operational issues.

Problem: Inaccurate Ullage Reading

Possible Causes

• Bent measuring tape

• Incorrect reference point

• Mechanical damage

• Probe contamination

Recommended Solution

Inspect the measuring tape carefully and verify the deck reference point before repeating the measurement.

Problem: Temperature Reading Fluctuates

Possible Causes

• Sensor contamination

• Damaged RTD sensor

• Probe not fully immersed

• Electrical interference

Recommended Solution

Allow the sensor to stabilize inside the cargo before recording the reading. Clean the probe after each operation.

Problem: Water Interface Not Detected

Possible Causes

• Heavy emulsion

• Dirty sensing tip

• Thin water layer

• Incorrect operating procedure

Recommended Solution

Inspect and clean the sensing probe. Repeat the measurement slowly using the approved operating procedure.

Problem: LCD Display Does Not Operate

Possible Causes

• Low battery

• Loose battery connection

• Moisture ingress

• Internal electronic failure

Recommended Solution

Replace the battery and inspect the battery terminals for corrosion.

Problem: Measuring Tape Retracts Poorly

Possible Causes

• Salt accumulation

• Mechanical wear

• Damaged reel

• Improper storage

Recommended Solution

Clean and dry the tape after each use. Store the instrument in its protective carrying case.

Preventive Maintenance Schedule

Routine maintenance improves measurement accuracy and extends equipment life.

Before Every Use

• Inspect probe

• Check tape

• Verify display

• Confirm battery level

Weekly

• Clean measuring tape

• Inspect connectors

• Examine probe tip

• Check reel operation

Monthly

• Functional test

• Interface verification

• Tape inspection

• Sensor inspection

Annually

A complete service should include:

• Electronic inspection

• Tape verification

• Sensor testing

• Mechanical inspection

• Battery replacement

• Functional testing

Calibration Recommendations

Although the RTEX incorporates factory-calibrated sensing technology, periodic verification remains good engineering practice.

Calibration is recommended:

• After major repairs

• Following mechanical impact

• During annual maintenance

• Before important custody transfer operations

• According to company Planned Maintenance System (PMS)

Maintaining calibration records also supports quality assurance during cargo inspections.

Genuine Spare Parts Available

Ship Care Service supplies genuine replacement components for the Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter, including:

• Electronic Measuring Probe

• RTD Temperature Sensor

• Precision Stainless Steel Tape

• Tape Reel Assembly

• Battery Cover

• LCD Display Components

• Probe Cable

• Mechanical Fasteners

• Protective Carrying Case

• Calibration Accessories

• Connector Assemblies

• O-Ring Seal Kits

• Replacement Labels

• Interface Detection Components

Using genuine spare parts helps preserve instrument performance and operational reliability.

How to Select the Correct RTEX Configuration

Before ordering a Honeywell HERMetic RTEX UTI Meter, consider:

Tank Depth

Choose the appropriate tape length based on your vessel's cargo tank dimensions.

Cargo Type

Confirm compatibility with the liquids routinely transported by your vessel.

Deck Valve Arrangement

Verify that the selected RTEX configuration matches the HERMetic vapour control valve installed onboard.

Service Support

Ensure spare parts, technical support, and calibration services are readily available.

Genuine vs Counterfeit Honeywell HERMetic RTEX

When purchasing a portable UTI meter, verify:

• Manufacturer nameplate

• Correct model number

• Original serial number

• Authentic Honeywell documentation

• Supplier reputation

• Equipment condition

• Service history (for pre-owned units)

Buying genuine equipment helps ensure safe operation, measurement accuracy, and long-term reliability.

Why Marine Operators Continue Choosing Honeywell HERMetic RTEX

The Honeywell HERMetic RTEX continues to be trusted because it delivers:

• Reliable ullage measurement

• Accurate temperature monitoring

• Precise oil-water interface detection

• Durable marine construction

• Easy operation

• Simple maintenance

• Long service life

• Global industry acceptance

• Proven performance in commercial tanker operations