Comparing clamp-on and in-line ultrasonic flow meters

Titan Enterprises provides an in-depth comparison between clamp-on and in-line ultrasonic flow meters, examining their respective advantages and limitations, and helping industries choose the most suitable device for their flow measurement applications.

Ultrasonic flow meters are an advanced solution for precise flow measurement. They operate without any moving parts, using ultrasound to determine the velocity of a fluid flowing through a pipe. This allows for accurate volumetric flow measurement. Ultrasonic flow meters fall into two categories: Transit-Time or ‘time-of-flight’ meters, which measure the time difference between ultrasonic pulses sent in the direction of the flow and against it, and Doppler meters, which measure the frequency shift of ultrasonic signals reflected by particles or bubbles in the fluid.

Ultrasonic flow meters can be either clamp-on or in-line, each offering distinct benefits for different applications. In-line meters are inserted into the pipe and provide high accuracy by measuring the entire cross-section of the pipe. These meters are ideal for applications requiring precise, long-term measurement. They can be independently calibrated and offer stable, reliable performance over time. In-line meters are also available in various technologies such as turbine, magnetic, and vortex, although ultrasonic in-line meters are preferable for minimal flow restriction. However, installation can be complex and costly, requiring pipe modifications and potential downtime. Maintenance can also be difficult, as it may involve shutting down the process to access the pipeline.

Clamp-on ultrasonic flow meters, on the other hand, are externally installed, offering a non-invasive solution that doesn’t require altering the pipeline. These flow meters are easy to install and maintain, making them ideal for applications where the process cannot be interrupted. They are portable, cost-effective, and can be used for spot checks or temporary installations. However, clamp-on meters are typically less accurate than in-line devices, as they rely on external measurements and are affected by pipe conditions, such as thickness, material, and internal deposits. They are also prone to signal interference and require careful placement to avoid errors.

The choice between in-line and clamp-on ultrasonic flow meters depends on specific application needs, including accuracy, installation complexity, and maintenance requirements. Titan Enterprises offers in-line ultrasonic flow meters that utilise patented ‘time-of-flight’ technology, ensuring excellent accuracy across a wide range of liquid flow rates, from 2 ml/min to 20 l/min, making them ideal for a variety of industries.

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