🔍 Quick Navigation
- Why Cleaning a Mass Air Flow Meter Matters
- Cleaning a Thermal Mass Air Flow Meter
- Cleaning a Coriolis Mass Air Flow Meter
- Thermal vs. Coriolis Cleaning Comparison
- Final Thoughts
A mass air flow meter (MAF) plays a critical role in ensuring accurate air or gas flow measurement in industrial systems. However, dust, oil mist, and contaminants can accumulate over time, resulting in measurement errors and performance decline.
Since thermal mass air flow meters and Coriolis mass air flow meters operate on different principles, their cleaning methods are not the same.
This article explains how to clean each type properly — without damaging the instrument.
Why Cleaning a Mass Air Flow Meter Matters
- Restores measurement accuracy
- Prevents signal drift or zero deviation
- Extends service life of the sensor
- Reduces recalibration and maintenance costs
- Ensures process reliability and product quality
Cleaning a Thermal Mass Air Flow Meter
🧠 How It Works
A thermal mass flow meter measures flow based on the heat transfer principle. As air passes over a heated sensor, the rate of heat loss is proportional to the mass flow rate.
⚠️ Cleaning Precautions
- The sensor is fragile — never scrub or touch the element
- Only use non-residue cleaning agents (e.g., isopropyl alcohol)
- Do not use compressed air or heat to dry the sensor
🔧 Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
- Turn off power and depressurize the pipeline.
- Remove the flow meter according to the manual.
- Spray electronic contact cleaner or 99% isopropyl alcohol onto the sensor.
- Let it air dry completely.
- Reinstall and perform a zero reset before restarting.
✅ Pro tip: Cleaning frequency depends on gas purity, filtration level, and installation environment.
🔗 How Does a Thermal Mass Flow Meter Work?
Cleaning a Coriolis Mass Air Flow Meter
🧠 How It Works
A Coriolis flow meter measures mass flow by detecting the twist of vibrating tubes caused by fluid mass movement. No heating element is used.
⚠️ Cleaning Precautions
- Focus on tube cleaning, not external parts
- Avoid corrosive chemicals that may damage stainless steel
- Internal dismantling should only be done by trained technicians
🔧 Common Cleaning Methods
| Cleaning Method | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gas flushing | Light dust or residue | Quick and non-invasive |
| CIP/SIP process | Food, pharma, high-purity gas | Follow temperature/pressure limits |
| Chemical soaking | Sticky or oily contaminants | Use compatible solvents only |
| Ultrasonic cleaning | Blockage or heavy build-up | Done in factory or lab only |
✅ Pro tip: If accuracy still drifts after cleaning, recalibration is required.
🔗 What Is a Coriolis Mass Flow Meter?
Thermal vs. Coriolis Cleaning Comparison
| Feature | Thermal Mass Flow Meter | Coriolis Mass Flow Meter |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning focus | Sensor head | Flow tube |
| Main risk | Sensor damage | Tube corrosion/blockage |
| Cleaning type | Spray cleaning, no contact | Flushing, chemicals, ultrasonic |
| DIY cleaning allowed? | Yes (simple cases) | Limited, often requires service |
Final Thoughts
Both thermal and Coriolis mass air flow meters can measure air, but their cleaning procedures are not interchangeable. Understanding the working principle helps you choose the safest and most effective maintenance method.
Whether you perform cleaning in-house or send it for factory service, proper handling protects your investment and ensures long-term measurement accuracy.
Need expert advice on cleaning your flow meter? Get in touch now!