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Reliable Flow Measurement – without Interfering with the Process

The Technology Behind Every Measurement

Clamp-on ultrasonic flow measurement measures the flow of liquids and gases non-invasively from the outside – without the need to cut into the pipe and without interrupting the process. The sensors are clamped directly onto the pipe (‘clamp-on’), ensuring quick and safe commissioning without contamination. 

The technology is suitable for measuring liquids and gases in a wide range of industrial applications and pipe materials.

Contactless Measurement – Optimising Processes

 

Clamp-on ultrasonic flow measurement is a tried-and-tested method for determining flow rates in fully filled pipes. The underlying ultrasonic time-of-flight method has been used successfully in industry for decades and has become established due to its high measurement accuracy and the ease with which it can be retrofitted to existing systems.

The ultrasonic sensors are mounted on the outside of the pipe, meaning that neither the pipe needs to be opened nor the ongoing process interrupted. As the sensors do not come into contact with the medium, there are no pressure losses, wear or risks of contamination. The technology is suitable for a wide range of pipe materials and offers a flexible, cost-effective solution for measuring the flow of liquids and gases.

Measurement Principle: Transit Time Method

The measurement method is based on determining the transit time of ultrasonic signals transmitted through the medium alternately in the direction of flow and against it.

The flow causes a difference in transit times, from which the average flow velocity is calculated. This forms the basis for determining the volumetric or mass flow rate.

The transit time difference method is particularly suitable for homogeneous media and is characterised by stable and reproducible measurement results.

Adaptable to Different Applications

To ensure reliable measurement, the propagation of the ultrasonic waves is specifically adapted to the application in question. Depending on the medium, the pipe material and the boundary conditions, different types of waves are used:

  • Shear waves for standard applications, particularly in liquids 
  • Lamb waves for more demanding applications, e.g. in gases or complex pipe conditions 

This flexibility enables the technology to be used even under difficult measurement conditions.

A prerequisite for the measurement is that the pipe is completely full. 

Installation without Affecting the Process

The clamp-on sensors are fitted to the outside of the pipework. No intervention in the pipework system is required. This means the process remains unaffected – there are no pressure losses or risks of contamination.

The technology is particularly suitable for:

  • Retrofitting in existing plants 
  • Temporary measurements and analyses 
  • Applications where downtime must be avoided 

Typical Areas of Application

Clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeters are used in a variety of industries, including:

  • Energy generation and distribution 
  • Process industry 
  • Water and wastewater applications 
  • Gas supply and industrial gases 

They offer a cost-effective solution wherever fast, reliable and non-invasive flow measurement is required.

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