Product roundup: Latest flowmeters less intrusive, often ultrasonic

Proline Prosonic Flow G 300/500 flowmeter can be supplied with either of two different transmitters—a compact version (Proline 300) or as a remote version (Proline 500) with as many as four inputs and outputs. It measures dry and wet gases with high precision (±0.5%), repeatability and reliability, even when process and ambient conditions fluctuate. The meter operates at process temperatures as high as 150 °C (302 °F) and pressures as much as 100 bar (1,450 psi), and can be ordered with built-in pressure and temperature sensors, whose input can be combined with measured sound velocity to calculate additional gas properties. Proline Prosonic Flow G 300/500 also has a high degree of robustness because all wetted parts are made of stainless steel, and the flowmeter complies with NACE MR0175/MR0103. The meter’s ultrasound transducers are available in titanium Grade 2.

An optional “Extended Gas Analysis” function package is available for special applications and to meet process control requirements. Depending on the selected gas type (pure gases, gas mixtures, coal gas, natural gas, customer-specific gases, etc), this function enables the calculation of additional parameters and process variables. Some examples are volume flow, corrected volume flow, mass flow, energy flow, calorific value, Wobbe index, gas type, molar mass, methane content (%), and density or viscosity.

Endress+Hauser

Variable area, mechanical, visual

ProSense FG1 Series mechanical, variable-area flowmeters provide visual indication of flow rate for water or petroleum-based fluids. They provide ±5% full scale accuracy and a repeatability of ±1% for cyclical applications requiring consistent readings. Two adjustable flow limit pointers are available to provide preset indication of high, low or normal flow rates. ProSense FG1 is made of high-impact polysulfone plastic (body, piston, cone) with brass fittings (1/2 and 3/4 NPT models). FG1 series flowmeters are available with 1/2 in., 3/4 in. or 1 in. NPT process connections and have easy-to-read flow scales in gallons per minute (GPM) and liters per minute (LPM). Measurement ranges are 0.25-2.5 GPM (1-10 LPM) to 4-28 GPM (20-100 LPM).

AutomationDirect

Flow data visualization software

Micro Motion ProcessViz flowmeter process data visualization software instantly displays raw process data, and translates it into directly actionable information, reducing the time needed to identify problems in flow processes. ProcessViz supports Micro Motion Coriolis transmitters such as 5700 and 4200 models with data historian output capabilities, and provides a snapshot of a moment in time in the flow process. Users don’t need to manipulate data to see what's happening in their flows. Its data is also available in a usable format that allows the user to identify and analyze process issues.

Emerson

Mass flow control, no drift

RedySmart mass flowmeters and controllers are ideal for BioPharm OEMS, while RedyCompact flowmeters and regulators are an ideal upgrade for old rotameters. These thermal instruments employ high-precision micro-electro mechanical systems (MEMS) technology using an advanced, ultra-stable, no-drift complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. Due to the stability of this thermal sensor design, it has a reportedly unique "lifetime no-drift warranty.”

RedySmart flowmeters and controllers contain no moving parts, are unaffected by upstream temperature and pressure fluctuations, provide a compact footprint and easy integration onto a cost-effective gas mixing block, and an array of communication protocols. RedySmart also features:

• Precision electromagnetic control valve that allows the valve seat to assume the exact height above the valve orifice necessary to maintain flow to the setpoint;
• Setpoint control-response times as fast as ±80ms;
• NIST-traceable advanced calibration over its entire flow range using real gas to assure accuracy and repeatability over its lifecycle  of a device;
• Available local display readout communicating flow data, while each device can be configured in the field with a free software app; and
• Limited flow range up to 500 slpm.

Meanwhile, RedyCompact is AA battery-powered, with a large touchscreen that's easy to read from a distance with automatic screen adjustment to 0°, 90°, 180° and 270° for easy installation and visibility. Its also offers greater mass flow accuracy than volumetric rotameters, and regulates flow rate with high-resolution values by using a precision needle valve to dial in manual setpoints. Users can set alarms, so the meter alerts when a flow event occurs. Easily configure from the touch screen. An optional Micro-USB power plug is also available.

Sierra Instruments

Inline ultrasonic for low-vicosity

QCT Series inline, ultrasonic flowmeters are designed for low-viscosity liquids, while its construction makes it ideal for high-purity and corrosive fluids. High accuracy and repeatability are achieved through a reportedly unique measurement section in QCT, where flow is conditioned and Delta T measured along the meter’s axis. The meter bases its operation on measuring the time difference of an ultrasonic wave traveling with and against the flowing medium. The time difference is directionally proportional to the fluid’s flow rate.

QCT has no moving parts, non-wetted sensors, and nothing in the flow stream that will cause an obstruction to the flow path. The meter is available in sizes of 1/8 in. to 1 in., is accurate to ±0.5% of reading plus zero stability, and repeatability is ± 0.2% over 10:1 calibration range. It has a 0.035 to 70 gpm flow range, 14 °F to 176 °F (-10 °C to 80 °C) temperature range, and analog, scaled frequency and Modbus RTU outputs.

Flow Technology Inc.

Integrated pressure and temperature

VersaFlow vortex flowmeter is reported to be the only vortex flowmeter with integrated pressure and temperature compensation in two-wire technology that can be called up via HART communication protocol. It conducts multi-parameter monitoring, and measures operating, standard volumetric and mass flow of conductive and non-conductive liquids, gases and vapors, even with fluctuating pressures and temperatures. VersaFlow also features non-wearing, fully welded stainless-steel construction with high corrosion, pressure and temperature resistance; optimal process reliability due to intelligent signal processing (ISP); and maintenance-free, water hammer-resistant sensor design. VersaFlow applications include superheated and saturated steam measurement; monitoring steam boiler and compressor output; measuring consumption in compressed air systems and consumption of industrial gases; and SIP and CIP processes in food and pharmaceutical applications.

Honeywell Process Solutions

All-metal, magnetic inductive

To measure and monitor conductive liquid flows MIS all-metal, magnetic, inductive flowmeter provides monitoring, batching and transmitter functions independent of media density, viscosity and temperature. It features IO-Link networking, easy onsite programming, bidirectional flow measurement, two configurable outputs, and resettable and grand total. MIS also incorporates a multi-parameter, color touchscreen display that's configurable and rotatable.

Kobold Instruments Inc.
412-788-2830

Safe, flexible ultrasonic

Optisonic 6300 V2 ultrasonic flowmeter has a stationary, clamp-on design, and lets users measure flow anywhere necessary without interrupting processes.

New features include a viscosity range up to 200 cSt, no need for re-greasing due to solid coupling material, next-generation signal converter for enhanced application range, Namur NE107 diagnostics, and integrated thermal energy calculation.

Optisonic 6300 V2 is suitable for diameters from 1/2 in. to 160 in. It has a process temperature range of -40 °F to 392 °F (-40 °C to 200 °C); and delivers accurate sensor alignment using rail-mounted transducers; and is constructed as a submersible, stainless-steel sensor rail (IP 68/NEMA 6P). It also offers flexible configurations, such as single and dual ultrasonic sensors; wall and field signal converter housing; and V-, W-, Z-and X-mode measurement modes.

Krohne
800-FLOWING (978-535-6060)

Slotted cyliner internal piston

MEMFlo MFTV variable-area, volumetric, metal-bodied flowmeters are simple, accurate and used in a range of industrial liquid and gas applications. Unlike tapered tube rotameters, MEMFlo MFTV uses a slotted cylinder internal piston and sight disk/indicator with an indicator disk in close proximity to the edge of the sight tube for visibility in dirty fluids. These meters have a high tolerance to suspend solids and measure flow to 1% accuracy and more than three times the flow range. MFTV’s rugged design has no springs, cams or seals to wear out, and most meters last more than 30 years.

Hawk Measurement

Clamp-on, ultrasonic for gas or liquid

Sitrans FS230 clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter combines Sitrans FST030 digital transmitter and Sitrans FSS200 clamp-on ultrasonic sensors, and handles natural, specialty and process gas, as well as well as liquid flow applications. FS230's 100 Hz data update/refresh rate uses small-volume provers for in situ flow validation by measuring the smallest flow variations 100 times per second, while its pipe configuration menu optimizes sensor placement and compensates for application conditions, including flow profile anomalies. Other primary features include:

• Accuracy of 0.5% to 1.0% of flow rate for all media/pipe sizes, and repeatability of 0.25% according to ISO 11631;
• Available internal AGA 9 gas tables, simplifying correction for temperature and pressure variations in gas flow;
• Three resettable totalizers, allowing simultaneous totalizing for daily, monthly and annual lease production;
• Patented, built-in pipe configuration software, optimizing installation, even if an ideal configuration is unavailable;
• Easy-to-read and use HMI with intuitive, menu-driven navigation, as well as step-by-step setup and troubleshooting wizards, with up to six user-configurable views on display at a time;
• SensorFlash 4MB MicroSD card storage (upgradeable to 32 MB), so certificates, calibration data, sensor parameters and events can be logged every 10 ms for easy servicing and record-keeping; and
• Versatile sensors that require little to no maintenance, and can be installed on pipes as small as 0.5 in. and as large as 394 in. (33 ft).

Available approvals for FS230 include Factory Mutual (FM) Canada, FM US Class 1 Division 2, and equivalent ATEX, IECEx or a selectable option code combining all approvals to provide almost complete worldwide coverage.

Siemens

Lifecycle-aware, verification

Admag Total Insight (TI) flowmeters are lifecycle-aware and come with a built-in verification function that checks the magnetic circuit, excitation circuit, computing circuit, alarm history and cable connection. This lets Admag TI express in-flow or no-flow conditions, verifying the health of the meter, resulting in reduced downtime. The series consists of Admag AXG, which is a complete redesign of Admag AXF, and will accommodate bore diameters from 2.5 mm up to 500 mm, while the revamped Admag AXW will accommodate bore diameters ranging from 25 mm to 1,800 mm.

Yokogawa Corp. of America

Portable ultrasonic calculates data

Portaflow C portable ultrasonic flowmeter is lightweight, easy to install, and provides on-the-spot consumed energy calculations based on forward flow temperature, return flow temperature and flow rate. It's designed for ±1% accuracy, fluid temperatures from -40 °C to 200 °C, and pipe diameters as large as 6,000 mm. The clamp-on detector and portable transmitter, allow measurements without interrupting operations. Applications include reduction of water used in plant utilities, energy consumption in air-conditioning systems, corrosive fluid and wash water in food manufacturing plants.

Fuji Electric

Clamp-on ultrasonic for water/wastewater

Dynasonics TFX-5000 ultrasonic clamp-on flowmeter clamps onto the outside of pipes for easy new and retrofit installation. It measures volumetric flow of clean liquids and those with small amounts of suspended solids or aeration, such as surface water or raw sewage. TFX-5000 is ideal for water and wastewater applications, including lift stations, booster pump stations and water mains. Unlike most ultrasonic flow meters, TFX-5000 employs built-in data logging services and a real-time clock to time/data-stamp alarms, log flow rate and total and track flow velocities. The meter has an 8 GB micro secure digital (SD) card to store a large volume of backup data for troubleshooting or reporting purposes.

Badger Meter
877-243-1010

Ball valve for precision flow

Type-21a Seat Support Technology (SST) flow control ball valve is a true-union ball valve that has the robust elements of the Type-21 and the ability to precisely control flow. Available in 1/2 in. through 2 in. sizes, SST features a precision-machined PVC ball with center provisions to support PTFE seats from 0% to 100% of capable flow. Type-21a SST ball valve produces equal percentage flow characteristics for fine throttling. The valve requires directional installation and comes equipped with a flow direction label.

Manually operated SSTs include a 0-to-100° indicator plate and an indicator line on the handle, which doubles as a carrier adjustment tool. An ISO 5211 top flange bolt pattern and integrally molded base pad for panel mounting are standard on all Type-21a SSTs, while the valve body is PVC with either EPDM or FKM O-rings. Socket, threaded and flanged-end connections are offered for SST, and added options include electric or pneumatic actuation with 4-20mA control, stem extension, and 2 in. square operating nut.

Asahi/America
800-343-3618