Gas Mass Flow Switches
Description
Gas mass flow switches are devices designed to measure the flow or quantity of a moving gas in terms of mass per unit time, such as pounds per minute. These switches can either be sensors with electrical outputs or standalone instruments equipped with local displays and controls. They are essential for accurately quantifying gas flow in various industrial processes.
Working Principle
Gas mass flow switches operate based on several measurement technologies, including inferential flow measurement, positive displacement, velocity meters, and true mass flow meters. Inferential measurement involves indirectly measuring flow by directly measuring another value and inferring the flow based on known relationships. True mass flow meters, such as thermal meters or Coriolis meters, measure the mass rate of flow directly. Thermal dispersion mass flow measurement, for example, uses two platinum RTDs where one is heated and the other measures the process temperature. The temperature differential between them is directly proportional to the mass flow measurement, making these devices useful for their simplicity and robustness in various conditions .
Applications
Gas mass flow switches are used in a variety of applications. For instance, they are crucial in natural gas fractionation process facilities for monitoring relief valve leaks. In this context, they help detect low-velocity gas leaks that other technologies, such as differential pressure and vane type technologies, may fail to identify .
Limitations
Some limitations of gas mass flow switches include their potential inability to detect low-velocity gas flows in certain applications, as seen with differential pressure and vane type technologies. Additionally, some flow sensors are better suited for liquid flow measurement and may not perform optimally in gas stream conditions that contain particulates or small amounts of liquid .
Considerations
When selecting gas mass flow switches, several factors should be considered. Initial costs and operating expenses can vary depending on the technology and application. Durability is a critical factor, especially in environments with less than ideal gas stream conditions. Accuracy is paramount for ensuring reliable measurements, and this often depends on proper calibration and maintenance. Replacement and maintenance costs should also be factored into the decision-making process, as some technologies may require more frequent servicing or part replacements .
from ABB Measurement & Analytics
With no up or downstream piping requirements the compact flowmeters can be installed in the tightest spaces, enabling applications not possible before. The FCH100 series delivers: EHEDG, hygienic certification. Superior accuracy and speed for filling applications. Full parameter access with up to... [See More]
- Process Media Type: Liquid; Gas
- Pipe Diameter: 0.25 to 4.00
- Meter Technology: Coriolis
- Mounting: In-line
from Fluid Components Intl. (FCI)
The FLT93C insertion and inline type FlexSwitches for sanitary flow, level and temperature monitoring represents the first true technological breakthrough in thermal technology in over a decade. This product is specifically designed for sanitary 3A process applications. FCI is the only thermal... [See More]
- Process Media Type: Liquid; Gas
- Mounting: Insertion
- Meter Technology: Thermal
- End Fittings: In-line Flanged
from Sierra Instruments, Inc.
Overview. The InnovaSwitch insertion-type level switch is a high-performance, industrial-grade liquid level indicator for tanks and process vessels. This product switches on level changes as small as 0.03 inch (0.8 mm) on dry-to-wet and wet-to-dry occurrences in a tank or vessel. The instrument was... [See More]
- Process Media Type: Liquid; Gas
- Mounting: Insertion
- Meter Technology: Thermal
- End Fittings: In-line Threaded
from Fluid Components Intl. (FCI)
The FLT93L inline type FlexSwitch for flow and temperature monitoring represents the first true technological breakthrough in thermal technology in over a decade. FCI is the only thermal manufacturer providing temperature compensation to ensure set point accuracy for process temperatures that vary... [See More]
- Process Media Type: Liquid; Gas
- Pipe Diameter: 0.75 to 1.00
- Meter Technology: Thermal
- Mounting: In-line
from Bionetics
Rheotherm flow sensing probes for duct gases are easy to install and provide long-term service with little or no maintenance. The output can be in mass, standard volume or velocity units. Options for hazardous locations (intrinsically safe/explosion-proof) are available. [See More]
- Process Media Type: Liquid; Gas
- Pipe Diameter: 1.00 to ?
- Meter Technology: Thermal
- Mounting: Insertion
from Siargo Ltd.
The FPX4008 proximity switch with mass flow sensing is manufactured using Siargo's proprietary MEMS sensor process that ensures reliability, performance and low cost. The sensors are specially designed for fast response to the air/oil lubricator applications. The surface of the sensor is passivated... [See More]
- Process Media Type: Gas
- Pipe Diameter: 0.25
- Meter Technology: MEMS Flow Sensor
- Mounting: In-line
from Litre Meter Limited
State-of-the-art in gaseous and liquid flow switching or liquid level control. High-resolution thermal differential technique. [See More]
- Process Media Type: Liquid; Gas; Steam
- Pipe Diameter: 0.98 to 787.40
- Meter Technology: Thermal
- Mounting: Insertion