Ultrasonic Flow Meters

There are various ultrasonic flow meter brands available at Cannon Water Technology. We provide a number of components and tools; however, we are well-known suppliers of good-quality ultrasonic flow meter brands such as Blue-White, Seametrics, Stenner, and so on.

Working of Ultrasonic Flow Transmitter

The working of handheld ultrasonic flow meter is simple and non-invasive, meaning the meter does not come into direct contact with the fluid.  It emits high-frequency sound waves into the fluid being measured and this sound waves travel through the fluid and bounce off the particles/bubbles present in the flow. The meter's transducers detect the reflected sound waves and measure the time it takes for them to return to the transducers. The ultrasonic water flow meter calculates the velocity of the fluid and converts it into flow rate and volume measurements based on the time it takes for the sound waves to travel and return.

Types of Ultrasonic Flow Meters Available at Cannon Water Technology

There are mainly two types of ultrasonic meters- Doppler and transit time.

• Doppler ultrasonic flow meters: These can measure liquids with suspended solids, bubbles, and particulate matter. However, flow rate should be high enough to keep the particles and bubbles intact for flow meter to reflect ultrasonic signals. The shift in frequency is because of motion of particles and bubbles.
• Transit time ultrasonic flow meters: This type of flow meter uses a comparison of upstream and downstream measurements. This means it calculates the difference from time when ultrasonic signal is transmitted into pipe to the point the fluid moves out of pipe and is received by transducer. Most Sonic Pro flow meters by Blue-White use the transit type method. The Sonic Pro ultrasonic meters by Blue-White come in a NEMA-certified housing and have NSF 61 certification.

Cannon Water Technology also offers Seametrics level sensors. These are also ideal for flow monitoring applications. Seametrics level sensors record the level, time, and temperature of any water body such as a wet land, lake, or water pipes and industrial tanks in various applications. They are made of 3169 stainless steel and come with Modbus RTU protocol for increased connectivity.

Common Features of Ultrasonic Flow Meters

Ultrasonic flow meters, whose measuring principle for ultrasonic sensor or meters is either Doppler or transit time, are equipped with several noteworthy features. A few of them include:

• Non-Intrusive: One prominent feature of portable ultrasonic flow meters is they do not require direct contact with the flowing medium. In other words, they are non-intrusive, minimizing the risk of contamination or pressure drop.
• High Accuracy: These ultrasonic water flow meters offer precise measurements with minimal error. This high accuracy range guarantees reliable data for applications.
• Data Logging and Communication: Most flow meters are designed with data logging capabilities. This allows for the storage and analysis of flow data over a period of time. A few models are also equipped with communication interfaces for real-time data transmission.
• Bidirectional Flow Measurement: Certain ultrasonic flow meters have the ability to measure flow in both directions, enabling bidirectional flow measurement. This capability proves especially valuable in applications where the flow can reverse, such as water distribution systems.
• Wide Flow Range: Our range of handheld ultrasonic flow meter possess the capability to accurately measure flow rates, from low and high velocities. Given this versatility, these devices find applications in several instances, ranging from laboratory settings with modest scale to extensive industrial operations.

Factors to Consider to Choose the Right Ultrasonic Flow Transmitter

Consider the following when selecting handheld ultrasonic flow meter for your specific applications.  

• Accuracy: Before investing in ultrasonic flow transmitter, it is highly advisable to check on the level of accuracy and repeatability. Keeping an eye on this will help you ensure that your measurements are reliable and precise.
• Flow Range: Check out the flow range of the device and ensure that it aligns with your specific application needs. Choose a handheld flow meter that can handle the minimum and maximum flow rates of your system.
• Fluid Properties: Check out the properties of the fluid being measured. These include temperature, viscosity, and conductivity. There are different models of ultrasonic flow meters available to handle specific fluid properties. Hence, selecting one that can accurately measure your fluid is vital.
• Pipe Size: Ensure that the handheld ultrasonic flow meter you have chosen is suitable for the pipe size.  Checking this is important to ensure that the meter you are using gets easily clamp onto the pipe without any issues.
• Data Logging and Connectivity Options: Take into account if the flow meter possesses data logging capabilities and the capacity to connect with other devices or software. These functionalities can be advantageous for storing and analyzing data, as well as seamlessly integrating with other systems.
• Battery Life: When choosing a flow meter, it's essential to consider the battery life, particularly for handheld devices. Opt for a meter that offers an extended battery life to guarantee uninterrupted measurements, especially during lengthier measurement sessions.
• Durability and Portability: Check the durability and portability of the flow meter. This is extremely important if you are using the device in different locations or environments.
• Ease of Use: When choosing a portable ultrasonic flow meter, it is vital to choose a device that is designed keeping in mind user-friendliness and ease of operation. Opt for a meter that offers a clear display, intuitive controls, and a simple user interface. This thoughtful design ensures that you can effortlessly obtain accurate measurements without facing any unnecessary complications.

Applications of Ultrasonic Flow Meters

Most process industries that use pumping systems and transfer a considerable amount of fluids and semisolids require these flow meters. Here are a few application areas of flow meters:

• Chemical plants
• Water purification systems
• Sewage treatment plants
• Ground water suction and purification systems
• Effluent treatment plants
• Metals and mining
• Oil & gas
• Food & beverage
• Pulp & paper
• Power

Cannon Water Technology is very particular about quality and our suppliers are also reliable and noteworthy. If you are looking for the right flow meters for your application, we will be more than happy to assist you. You can reach us on email or phone if you are interested in knowing the further details.

FAQ:

• How does an ultrasonic flow meter work?

Ultrasonic flow meters operate on the principle of measuring the time it takes for ultrasonic waves to travel between two transducers. One transducer emits ultrasonic waves, and the other receives them. By measuring the difference in travel time in the upstream and downstream directions, the flow velocity and flow rate of the fluid can be determined.

• What are the advantages of using ultrasonic flow meters?

Ultrasonic flow meters offer several advantages, such as non-intrusive measurement, no pressure drop, wide turndown ratio, high accuracy, minimal maintenance requirements, compatibility with various fluids (liquids and gases), and the ability to measure bi-directional flow. They are also unaffected by the fluid's conductivity, density, or viscosity.

• What Range of Pipe Diameters Can Ultrasonic Water Flow Meter Measure?

The handheld ultrasonic flow meter can measure a wide range of pipe diameters. It is wisely designed to accurately measure the flow rates in pipes of various sizes, ranging from small-diameter pipes to large-diameter pipes. Being said this, the exact range of pipe diameters that can be measured depends on the specific model of the ultrasonic flow meter used for the application. However, generally, these meters are capable of measuring pipe diameters as small as ½ inch to 48 inches.

• Are ultrasonic flow meters suited for dirty and clean fluids?

Ultrasonic flow meters are suited for both clean and dirty fluids; however, you must be careful about the type of device you choose for your application. For instance, transit-time flow meters are suited for clean fluids with low levels of contaminants; however, Doppler flow meters are ideal for measuring dirty fluids.

• Are your portable ultrasonic flow meters suited for applications that demand high accuracy?

Yes, many of our portable ultrasonic flow meters are suited for applications that demand high accuracy. The accuracy of these meters would depend on factors such as calibration, installation conditions, and so on. Some high-quality meters available with us can easily provide high accuracy readings, within ±1% of the measured flow rate.

• Do these portable ultrasonic flow meters work best for all types of fluids?

Yes, these flow meters are compatible with most types of fluids, however, they are not recommended for fluids with high levels of aeration, as well as low flow rates. It is essential to check the compatibility of your flow meter with the fluid under consideration.

• Do these ultrasonic flow meters demand regular maintenance?

Most ultrasonic flow meter models offered by us demands low maintenance. However, we always recommend the users to perform inspection and periodic calibration to ensure their reliable performance.

• How does an ultrasonic flow meter work?

Ultrasonic flow meters operate on the principle of measuring the time it takes for ultrasonic waves to travel between two transducers. One transducer emits ultrasonic waves, and the other receives them. By measuring the difference in travel time in the upstream and downstream directions, the flow velocity and flow rate of the fluid can be determined.

• What are the advantages of using ultrasonic flow meters?

Ultrasonic flow meters offer several advantages, such as non-intrusive measurement, no pressure drop, wide turndown ratio, high accuracy, minimal maintenance requirements, compatibility with various fluids (liquids and gases), and the ability to measure bi-directional flow. They are also unaffected by the fluid's conductivity, density, or viscosity.