Laboratory Activity 2

Part I

As a supplement for our discussion in Analog Electronic Instrumentation, please answer

the following problems. You can submit your answers by attaching photos of your
solution or by any means that you know of as long as it will be clear and visible. 10
points each

1. A current-to-pressure transducer is used to convert a 4-20 mA electronic signal into a

3-15 PSI pneumatic signal. This particular transducer is configured for reverse action
instead of direct, meaning that its pressure output at 4mA should be 15psi and its
pressure output at 20 mA should be 3 PSI. Calculate the necessary current signal
value to produce an output pressure of 12.7 PSI.

2. Palm Olein is the primary raw material used in a process plant, it is contained in a
tank with a level transmitter that can measure between 0 to 10 m. Calculate the level of
the medium inside the tank if the transmitter outputs a signal of 10.84mA.

3. A temperature transmitter is installed into a boiler, it can detect the temperature

between 100°C to 1000°C, and determine the output signal if the temperature is 500°C.
Part II (50 points)

1. Provide an analysis on what caused the Deepwater Horizon Disaster.

- Ignorance and greediness to money were the primary cause of the Deepwater
Horizon disaster. Why? Because, first and foremost, higher-ranking officers want
to start digging as soon as possible, despite the fact that it is not advisable and is
risky, ignoring the safety of the employees and the plant for the sake of money.
Also, when they ran the negative pressure test, it was clear that the pressure
rose above normal, but they ignored it because, with no unusual events
occurring, they easily concluded that there was no problem at all, resulting in
such a disaster.

2. As a future Instrumentation and Control Engineer, what corrective actions would you
suggest to prevent such disasters and what would be your role in doing it?

- Safety is one of the most important aspects of the industry in which I will be
working, and it should not be overlooked. And, as a future Instrumentation and
Control Engineer, I believe that every engineer or technician should be aware of
safety and precautionary measures in the field because failure to do so can lead
to disasters. Furthermore, I will always be the one to point out things that need to
be noticed whenever I see something wrong with the instruments that could lead
to a disaster, jeopardizing the safety of every single employee in the powerplant.
3. What are your key takeaways after watching the film?

- As an aspiring instrumentation and control engineer and the daughter of

someone who has worked offshore for over ten years, this film literally reminded
me of why I chose to embark on this journey. The film made me realize how
dangerous my father's job is, and yet he continues to do his best to provide for
our family. Furthermore, I told myself that in the future, I will not see money as
the sole reason for working in this industry; rather, I want to work passionately,
and as a professional, I will not execute or handle things in a rush without
considering everyone's safety. Because I learned from the film that a hasty
decision can have far-reaching consequences. Last but not least, professionals
or engineers should not prioritize financial gain over the safety of everyone's
lives.

4. Attach photos of your reaction while watching and after you finished the
film.