How can non-invasive flow measurement help pharmaceutical manufacturers?
The manufacture of pharmaceutical products places very high demands on process measurement technology. Non-invasive solutions are becoming increasingly important in this context.
Non-invasive ultrasonic flow measurement for sterile and high-purity processes
Low flow rates, high-purity media and, furthermore, the fundamental requirement for a hygienic and sterile environment present a particular challenge, especially when flow measurements are to be carried out on existing pipework.
As the purity of the medium increases, conductivity generally decreases, with the result that electromagnetic flowmeters often fail to function. Furthermore, the use of conventional flow meters necessitates interrupting production processes, making it difficult to resume production whilst restoring sterile conditions. Invasive flow measurement devices also provide surfaces where microbiological organisms and algae can grow. Non-invasive ultrasonic flow measurement, on the other hand, offers a reliable and repeatable method of taking measurements without interrupting the process or compromising the sterility of the pipe.
Non-invasive clamp-on flow meters are clean and versatile, and are easy to install and operate. The rise of distributed manufacturing, enabled by Industry 4.0 and ‘Internet of Things’ (IIoT) technologies, the increased demands of continuous mass production, and the drive to reduce product returns, particularly in the manufacture of high-value products such as those in the pharmaceutical industry, mean that reliable process measurement technology that can be quickly and easily integrated into existing systems will become essential. Non-invasive ultrasonic flowmeters will account for a significant proportion of this growth.
