Principle of gas flowmeter
A gas flowmeter is an instrument used to measure the flow of gas, and its working principle varies by type. The following is the working principle of several common gas flowmeters:
Differential pressure flowmeter: Calculate the flow rate by measuring the difference in pressure produced by the fluid as it flows through the pipe. When the gas passes through the throttling device in the pipeline (such as orifice plate, venturi tube, etc.), the pressure before and after the throttling device will be different due to the change in flow rate. By measuring this pressure difference, the flow rate of the gas can be calculated.
Vortex flowmeter: Use the vortex generated by the fluid during the flow process to measure the flow rate. When a gas flows through an obstacle, such as a gatepost generator in a vortex flowmeter, a vortex forms behind it. The frequency of the vortex is proportional to the flow rate, and the flow rate of the gas can be calculated by detecting the frequency of the vortex.
Thermal Mass flowmeter: Calculate the flow rate by measuring the heat change when the gas flows. There is a heating element in the thermal flowmeter, and when the gas flows, it will take away a part of the heat, resulting in a decrease in the temperature of the heating element. By measuring the temperature change of the heating element, the flow rate of the gas can be calculated.
Coriolis mass flowmeter: Based on Coriolis force, the flow rate is measured by the force exerted on the wall of a fluid as it flows through a vibrating tube. There are two parallel T-shaped tubes inside the mass flowmeter. When the fluid flows through the tubes, Coriolis force effect will be generated on the tubes, causing the two tubes to twist and vibrate. By measuring the torsional vibration frequency and phase difference of the tube, the mass flow rate of the fluid can be calculated.
Application of gas flowmeter
Gas flowmeters play an important role in a number of industries, including but not limited to:
- Industrial field: In chemical, oil, natural gas and other industries, gas flow meters are used to measure and control the flow of various gases to ensure the stability and safety of the production process.
- Laboratory: In scientific research laboratories, gas flow meters are used for accurate measurement and control of gas flow rates in life sciences, environmental monitoring and other fields.
- Pharmaceutical industry: For the measurement and control of gas flow to ensure reasonable production process and quality standards.
- Automation equipment: Monitor and regulate gas flow rates in automated systems to improve production efficiency and safety.
Use and maintenance of gas flowmeters
- Choose the right flowmeter: Choose the right flowmeter type according to the nature of the gas (such as temperature, pressure, composition, etc.) and measurement requirements.
- Inspection and installation: Before installation, check the appearance of the flow meter to ensure that there is no damage and confirm its calibration status. The flow meter should be installed on the straight section of the pipeline, avoiding the position of elbows, valves, etc., to reduce flow interference. When installing, ensure that the seal between the flow meter and the pipe is good to prevent gas leakage.
- Connect the power and signal lines: according to the type of flow meter, connect the corresponding power and signal output lines.
- Power test and calibration: After installation, power test flowmeter to check whether the display is normal. It is calibrated according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the accuracy of the measurement.
- Regular inspection and maintenance: In the process of use, regularly check the working status of the flow meter to ensure its normal operation. Clean and maintain flowmeters regularly, especially when used in highly polluted environments.
- Data recording and analysis: Record meter readings for data analysis and troubleshooting.
- Avoid overload: Ensure that the flow meter is used within its rated flow rate to avoid equipment damage due to overload.
To sum up, gas flowmeters play an important role in many fields. By understanding its working principle, choosing the right type, correct installation and maintenance, and reasonable application, it can ensure the long-term stable working performance of the gas flow meter and meet various measurement needs.