Controller Flow Computers, Totalizers, and Indicators
Description
Controller flow computers, totalizers, and indicators are devices used to measure, compute, and display flow-related data. They handle input signals from various sensors and provide outputs that can be used for monitoring and controlling flow processes. These devices are essential in managing and recording the total amount of material or media that passes through a system.
Working Principle
Controller flow computers, totalizers, and indicators operate by receiving input signals from flow sensors, which can include differential pressure meters, true mass flow meters, and velocity meters. These inputs are processed to compute flow rates and totalize the amount of material passing through the system. The devices can output control signals in various forms, such as analog voltage, analog current, or frequency (pulse), to manage flow processes effectively. They are useful because they provide precise control and monitoring of flow, which is critical in maintaining efficiency and safety in industrial processes.
Applications
These devices are widely used in various industries. For example, in the oil industry, they are employed for flow monitoring and indication in oil rigs, pipelines, and oil wells, which are often located in remote and harsh environments. In the water and wastewater sector, they help in monitoring and managing flow rates. In chemical plants, flow computers are used for ratio controlling, while in the food industry, batch controllers are utilized to manage the flow of ingredients.
Advantages over other Flow Computers, Totalizers, and Indicators
One specific advantage of certain flow computers and totalizers, such as the Fluidwell explosion-proof E-series, is their ability to operate as standalone devices without the need for external power. This makes them particularly suitable for harsh and remote environments where infrastructure is limited. Additionally, their robust design allows them to withstand extreme conditions, making them more reliable than other devices that may require more frequent maintenance or replacement.
Limitations
Volume totalizers for gases can have moving parts that are subject to wear, which may lead to flow blockage at zero flow due to solid impurities. They can also be sluggish in response to quick changes and may be affected by high differential pressures, posing a risk of overspeeding.
Considerations
When selecting and using controller flow computers, totalizers, and indicators, several factors should be considered. Initial costs can vary depending on the complexity and features of the device. Operating expenses may include energy consumption and maintenance costs, which can be higher for devices with moving parts. Durability is a crucial factor, especially in harsh environments, where robust devices like the Fluidwell E-series may offer better longevity. Accuracy is essential for precise flow measurement and control, and devices should be chosen based on their ability to maintain accuracy over time. Replacement and maintenance costs should also be considered, as devices with more complex or delicate components may require more frequent servicing.
from Great Plains Industries, Inc.
Rate / totalizer, NEMA 4X front panel [See More]
- Features: Controller; Recorder
- Rates Displayed: Volumetric; Totalizer
- Media Type: Liquid
- Display Types: Digital Display (Readouts)
from Define Instruments
This simple and affordable counter/rate indicator is compatible with a range of sensors, and is ideal for indicating totalization and monitoring rates. At a glance: NPN, PNP, TTL, namur, tacho or closed contact sensors. Signal averaging on the rate. Simple, intuitive interface with scrolling text... [See More]
- Features: Controller
- Local Interface: Digital Front Panel; Computer Interface
- Display Types: Digital Display (Readouts)
- Computer Interface: Serial
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The DPF60 is a combination microprocessor-based digital rate indicator and integrating totalizer. It accepts inputs of 4 to 20 mA, 0 to 20 mA, 0 to 5 V, or 1 to 5 V and can be scaled for engineering units directly from the NEMA 4X (IP66) rated front panel without tweaking internal potentiometers. [See More]
- Features: Alarm; Controller; Programmable
- Rates Displayed: Totalizer
- Media Type: Liquid; Gas/Steam
- Display Types: Digital Display (Readouts)
from Aalborg Instruments
Microprocessor driven digital Command Modules are. used in conjunction with any analog or digital mass flow. meters or controllers with 0-5 Vdc input /output signals. One, two, three and four channel Command Module. configurations are available. Command Modules contain. appropriate power supplies,... [See More]
- Features: Alarm; Controller; Programmable; Recorder (optional feature)
- Rates Displayed: Volumetric; Mass; Totalizer
- Media Type: Gas/Steam
- Display Types: Digital Display (Readouts)
from Florite International, Inc.
The 900 Series is an economic one loop microcomputer-based instrument incorporating user selectable digital and analog inputs, as well as analog and relay outputs. Other 900 Series features include .005% high accuracy PID, batch, and dose control functions. Additionally, the 900 Series encompasses... [See More]
- Features: Alarm; Controller; Programmable; Recorder
- Rates Displayed: Volumetric; Velocity; Mass; Totalizer
- Media Type: Liquid; Gas/Steam
- Display Types: Analog Meter or Indicator; Digital Display (Readouts); Computer
from Liquid Controls Group; a Unit of IDEX Corporation
A positive displacement meter measures gross volume regardless of temperature and/or specific gravity. On those products with linear coefficient of expansion, a Temperature Volume Compensator automatically corrects registration to indicate the volume of the liquid at a selected base temperature... [See More]
- Features: Controller
- Rates Displayed: Mass
- Media Type: Liquid
- Display Types: Analog Meter or Indicator
from KROHNE Messtechnik
The SUMMIT 8800 is a digital flow computer for custody transfer (CT) measurement. Its state of the art full color graphical touch screen allows a graphical representation of the measurement process, with all measured values shown in real time; Up to 5 different types of meters combined in one flow... [See More]
- Features: Controller; Programmable; Recorder
- Rates Displayed: Volumetric; Velocity; Mass; Totalizer
- Media Type: Liquid; Gas/Steam
- Display Types: Digital Display (Readouts); Computer