Critical Technical Advantages
-
Sensor Replacement Under Pressure: One of the most significant operational benefits of the FLOWSIC300 is the ability to replace transducers without shutting down the pipeline. Using a specialized extraction tool, maintenance can be performed under full process pressure, ensuring zero downtime for the plant or grid.
-
Large Measuring Range (100:1): The device handles massive fluctuations in flow rates, providing accurate data across a span of greater than 100:1. This is particularly useful in storage facilities and distribution networks where gas demand varies significantly between peak and off-peak hours.
-
Non-Contact, Zero Pressure Loss: Because the ultrasonic sensors do not obstruct the gas stream, there is no pressure drop across the meter. This reduces energy costs for compressors and eliminates the risk of blockages or mechanical wear common in turbine or orifice plate meters.
-
Resistance to Noise and Pulsation: The FLOWSIC300 is engineered to be insensitive to the high-frequency noise generated by pressure regulators and the pulsations from compressors. This ensures stable readings even when installed in noisy locations where other ultrasonic meters might struggle.
-
Remote Electronics (IP68): The transmitter can be mounted up to 15 meters away from the sensors. This, combined with an IP68 enclosure rating for the sensors, makes the system ideal for underground installations or locations with limited accessibility and harsh environmental conditions.
-
Automated Diagnostics: The system features bidirectional measurement and automated self-diagnostics. By monitoring signal quality and flow profiles, the device supports condition-based maintenance, alerting operators only when service is actually required.
Detailed Technical Performance Matrix
| Specification | Technical Details and Ranges |
| Measured Variables | Gas velocity, gas volume, sound velocity |
| Measuring Range Span | > 100 : 1 |
| Nominal Pipe Sizes | DN100 to DN1200 (4″ to 48″) |
| Measurement Accuracy | Typically ±1.0% (depending on configuration) |
| Process Temperature | -40 °C to +180 °C |
| Process Pressure | Up to 100 bar (higher on request) |
| Communication | Modbus (TCP/RTU), HART, 4-20mA, Pulse/Frequency |
| Enclosure Rating | IP68 (Sensors), IP66/67 (Electronics) |
Primary Applications
-
Internal Balancing: Tracking gas distribution within large industrial complexes or regional gas grids for cost allocation.
-
Gas Storage Control: Monitoring the injection and withdrawal rates of natural gas in underground storage facilities.
-
Process Gas Monitoring: Measuring various process gases in the chemical and petrochemical industries where aggressive media or high pressures are present.
-
Check Metering: Providing a secondary, independent measurement to verify the performance of existing custody transfer meters.
-
Underground Distribution: Reliable metering in submerged or pit-mounted locations thanks to the remote electronics and IP68 sensor design.
