Clamp-on ultrasonic flow meter is a non-intrusive option for flow measurement and ideal for retrofit; or when cutting into the pipe and plant shutdown are not allowed. It uses the transit time principal to measure the difference between transit times of an ultrasonic signals generated by a pair of transducers that are mounted directly onto the pipe.
Clamp-on ultrasonic flow meter is commonly used for applications like chilled and hot water for HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning); energy management system; chemical manufacturing; wastewater treatment, etc.
- Non-intrusive measurement method
- Thermal energy calculation (BTU) (optional) (used with a pair of temperature sensor probes)
- Transducers mounted directly on pipe (insulation must be removed)
- Flexibility in mounting configurations
- Wide range of pipe sizes and pipe materials
- Unaffected by changes in temperature, density or viscosity
- No pressure drop, low cutoff
- Bi-directional flow capability
- Corrosion-resistant, contamination free
- Relative low power consumption
- Datalogging function (optional)
Thermal energy monitoring: With a matched pair of temperature sensor probes, transit time ultrasonic flow meters offer a cost-effective way of measuring volumetric flow and obtaining energy readings to evaluate energy efficiency. By measuring the flow and differential temperature (ΔT), users can calculate the energy consumed in BTUs.
Food/hygienic flow monitoring: The contactless clamp-on transducers are installed outside the pipe. This non-intrusive measurement method will eliminate the risk of contamination and preserving the cleanliness of the process.
Chemical process flow monitoring: Shutting down an existing chemical production is complicated and costly and modifying pipes carries the risk of potentially dangerous leakage. The contactless feature ensures that the users are not exposed to the safety risk from hazardous or toxic chemicals.
Ultrasonic transducers can be configured to operate in either Reflect, Direct, or Double Reflect modes. The choice of operating mode is dictated by the size, material, and age of the pipe; and determines the appropriate mounting option for the transducers onto the pipe.
Direct Mount (Z method): Provides a shorter sonic path which will improve signal strength in difficult pipe conditions such as older and/or corroded piping. The shorter path also minimizes the distance between transducers and can be the best option if mounting space is limited.
Reflect Mount (V method): The transducers are inline with each other making separation distance and alignment easy.
Double Reflect Mount (W method): Ideal for smaller pipe installations. The longer path ensures the transducers won’t touch and the lengthened transit time reduces measurement error.
