Coriolis Mass Flow Meter: Reliable Measurement
Coriolis Mass Flow Meters have become the gold standard in flow measurement technology, renowned for their precision, versatility, and ability to measure multiple parameters simultaneously. Unlike traditional flow meters, which often rely on external factors like fluid density and viscosity, Coriolis Mass Flow Meters provide direct mass flow, density, and temperature measurements, making them indispensable across industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and chemical processing.
Their robust design, minimal maintenance requirements, and high accuracy make them ideal for demanding applications where even minor measurement errors can lead to significant financial or operational consequences. In this article, we’ll explore the working principles, advantages, technical specifications, installation requirements, and diverse applications of Coriolis Mass Flow Meters, demonstrating why they are a preferred choice for flow measurement solutions.
2. Working Principle of Coriolis Mass Flow Meters
At the core of a Coriolis Mass Flow Meter lies the principle of the Coriolis effect, which describes how the inertia of a moving fluid interacts with vibrating tubes to produce measurable phase shifts.
How Coriolis Mass Flow Meters Work:
- Fluid Flow Through Tubes: The fluid enters a U-shaped or straight vibrating tube inside the flow meter.
- Tube Vibration: An actuator causes the tubes to vibrate at a natural frequency.
- Phase Shift Detection: The fluid’s inertia creates a phase shift between the inlet and outlet of the tubes.
- Signal Conversion: Sensors detect these phase shifts and calculate mass flow rate, density, and temperature.
Key Parameters Measured:
- Mass Flow Rate: Direct measurement without relying on fluid density or viscosity.
- Density: Variations in tube vibration frequency detect density changes.
- Temperature: Real-time monitoring through integrated sensors.
Unlike volumetric flow meters, Coriolis Mass Flow Meters measure the mass directly, ensuring accuracy and independence from external variables.
3. Advantages of Using Coriolis Mass Flow Meters
- High Accuracy and Reliability: Precision levels reaching as low as ±0.1%.
- Direct Mass Flow Measurement: Eliminates the need for compensation.
- Multi-Parameter Measurement: Simultaneous mass flow, density, and temperature measurement.
- Independence from Fluid Properties: Unaffected by variations in density, viscosity, or conductivity.
- No Special Installation Requirements: No need for straight pipe runs.
- Minimal Maintenance: No moving parts reduce wear and tear.
- Reduced Operating Costs: Long-term savings through low maintenance.
- Wide Operating Range: Handles 0.03 kg/h to 1,500,000 kg/h.
- Durability and Corrosion Resistance: Made from AISI316 stainless steel for harsh environments.
Technical Specifications of Coriolis Mass Flow Meters
Coriolis Mass Flow Meters are designed to meet diverse industrial requirements, offering unmatched precision, durability, and adaptability across a range of applications. Below are the specifications for four distinct models, each addressing unique operational needs:
- DMS-1-CR: General-purpose applications with advanced density and temperature monitoring.
- DMS-KF-Triangle: Ideal for CNG, LNG, and LPG systems requiring precision and robustness.
- DMS-KF-V: Specifically designed for high-viscosity fluids and high-pressure environments.
- General Technical Properties: Versatile specifications applicable across liquids, gases, and a wide range of industrial scenarios.
| Specification | DMS-1-CR | DMS-KF-Triangle | DMS-KF-V | General Technical Properties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Most Common Use | General-purpose applications | CNG / LNG / LPG | High viscosity and high-pressure applications | Liquids and gases |
| Precision | ±0.5%, ±0.2%, ±0.1% O.D. | ±0.2/ 0.1/ 0.05% (Liquid), ±0.5% (Gas) | ±0.2/ 0.1/ 0.05% (Liquid), ±0.5% (Gas) | ±0.5%, ±0.2%, ±0.1% O.D. |
| Density Accuracy | ±2.0 kg/m³ (±0.002 g/cm³), ±1.0 kg/m³ (opt.) | ±0.001 g/cm³ | ±0.001 g/cm³ | 0.2–2 kg/l |
| Working Density Range | 0.2–2 kg/l | 0.2–3.0 g/cm³ | 0.2–3.0 g/cm³ | N/A |
| Flow Measurement Range | N/A | 0–1500 kg/h to 0–10 tons/h | 0–1000 kg/h to 0–1000 tons/h | N/A |
| Operating Temperature Range | -50…+200°C (short probe), -50…+150°C (long probe) | -50…+150°C (350°C opt.) | -50…+150°C (350°C opt.) | -50°C…125°C (350°C opt.) |
| Pipe Diameter | N/A | DN10–DN25 | DN10–DN300 | N/A |
| Mounting Position | Horizontal and Vertical (up) | Horizontal and Vertical | Horizontal and Vertical | Horizontal and Vertical (up) |
| Connection | Flange (custom options available) | ANSI, DIN, JIS, Sanitary Tri-Clamp | ANSI, DIN, JIS, Sanitary Tri-Clamp | Flange (custom options available) |
| Pressure Range | 40 bar (63 bar optional) | Max 16 Bar (40–1000 Bar opt.) | Max 16 Bar (40–1000 Bar opt.) | 40 bar (63 bar optional) |
| Repeatability | N/A | 0.001 g/cm³ | 0.001 g/cm³ | N/A |
| Temperature Accuracy | N/A | ±1.0°C | ±1.0°C | N/A |
| Sensitivity | N/A | 0.2/ 0.1/ 0.05% (Liquid), 0.5% (Gas) | 0.2/ 0.1/ 0.05% (Liquid), 0.5% (Gas) | N/A |
| Wet Parts Material | AISI316, Alloy C276, PFA Coated 316 Steel | N/A | N/A | AISI316 |
| Application Areas | Liquids and gases | CNG / LNG / LPG | High-viscosity fluids and gases | Liquids and gases |
| Protection Class | IP67, Exd ib II C T4…T6 | IP67 | IP67 | IP67, Exd ib II C T4…T6 |
| Certificates | CE, ATEX, ISO19001, ISO14001, OHSAS18001 | ATEX, CE, ISO9001, ISO14001, OHSAS18001 | ATEX, CE, ISO9001, ISO14001, OHSAS18001 | CE, ATEX, ISO19001, ISO14001, OHSAS18001 |
| Analog Output | 4-20mA | 4-20mA | 4-20mA | 4-20 mA and Pulse |
| Frequency Output | 0-1 kHz | 0-10 kHz | 0-10 kHz | N/A |
| Communication | RS-485 MODBUS (HART optional) | RS485 (RTU Modbus), HART (optional) | RS485 (RTU Modbus), HART (optional) | RS-485 MODBUS |
| Power Supply | 24 VDC | 24VDC, 220VAC | 24VDC, 220VAC | 24 VDC or 230 VAC |
Each model offers unique strengths:
- DMS-1-CR: Tailored for applications requiring advanced density and temperature measurement.
- DMS-KF-Triangle: Designed for precise gas flow measurement in CNG, LNG, and LPG systems.
- DMS-KF-V: Optimized for high-pressure and high-viscosity fluids.
- General Technical Properties: Suitable for a wide range of liquids and gases with flexible configurations.
5. Installation and Maintenance
Coriolis Mass Flow Meters offer flexibility in installation, accommodating various orientations and pipeline layouts. They do not require long sections of straight piping before or after the device and can be installed in both horizontal and vertical positions. Although inherently resistant to vibrations, mounting on stable pipe supports ensures optimal performance.
Routine inspections are typically sufficient, with occasional calibration recommended for critical applications. Cleaning may be necessary in cases involving viscous or sticky fluids. Ensuring secure electrical connections prevents performance issues caused by moisture or corrosion.
With proper installation and minimal maintenance, Coriolis Mass Flow Meters guarantee long-lasting and reliable performance.
6. Application Areas of Coriolis Mass Flow Meters
Coriolis Mass Flow Meters are widely used across diverse industries due to their precision and adaptability.
Oil and Gas: Crude oil, natural gas, and custody transfer applications.
Chemical Industry: Accurate blending and monitoring of corrosive fluids.
Food and Beverage: Ingredient dosing and sanitary applications.
Pharmaceuticals: Precise batch control and sterile environments.
Water Treatment: Chemical dosing and sludge monitoring.
Energy Sector: Fuel measurement and heat transfer systems.
Marine Industry: Fuel bunkering and ballast water compliance.
Compared to electromagnetic and turbine meters, Coriolis meters excel in accuracy, low maintenance, and multi-parameter measurement.
The Coriolis Mass Flow Meter stands as a benchmark in flow measurement technology, offering unmatched accuracy, reliability, and versatility across a wide range of applications. By directly measuring mass flow, density, and temperature, these devices eliminate the need for complex compensations typically required by traditional volumetric flow meters.
Industries ranging from oil and gas to pharmaceuticals and food processing rely on Coriolis meters for their precision, minimal maintenance requirements, and adaptability to various fluids, including liquids, gases, and sludges.
With their ability to function under challenging environmental conditions, resistance to corrosion, and seamless integration with industrial communication systems like RS-485 MODBUS, Coriolis Mass Flow Meters are not just a tool but a long-term investment for efficient operations.
When accuracy, reliability, and efficiency are non-negotiable, Coriolis Mass Flow Meters are the go-to choice for engineers and industries worldwide.
For more information, expert assistance, or to find the ideal Coriolis Mass Flow Meter for your application, contact us today and let our team help you make the best choice.