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In modern industrial production, flowmeters are essential instruments for precise measurement and efficient control. With the continuous advancement of process flows and industrial demands, Coriolis mass flowmeters have become the preferred choice in many industries due to their high accuracy and ability to directly measure mass flow and density. However, for many companies and engineers, selecting Coriolis mass flowmeters that suits their process needs remains a challenge. This article will systematically provide a guide to purchasing Coriolis mass flowmeters, covering principles, applications, selection, and purchasing considerations.

1. Working Principle of a Coriolis Mass Flowmeter

A Coriolis mass flowmeter is a high-precision flow measurement instrument based on the Coriolis effect. Its core principle is that when a fluid flows through a vibrating tube, the Coriolis force generated by the fluid mass and flow velocity causes the tube to twist or bend. By measuring the torsion angle and vibration phase difference of the tube, the flowmeter can directly measure mass flow and fluid density.

Compared to traditional volumetric flowmeters, Coriolis mass flowmeters are unaffected by factors such as temperature, pressure, and viscosity, making them particularly effective in high-precision measurement scenarios. In addition, it can provide density and temperature data, enabling more process control functions.

2. Main Applications of Coriolis Mass Flow Meters

Coriolis mass flow meters, due to their precise and stable measurement capabilities, are widely used in various industries, including but not limited to:

Chemical Industry: In chemical production, accurate metering of raw materials and control of reaction conditions are crucial. Coriolis flow meters enable high-precision metering of liquids and slurries, ensuring accurate formulations and stable reactions.

Oil and Gas: For high-value fluids such as crude oil and liquefied petroleum gas, Coriolis flow meters accurately measure mass flow, reducing metering errors and thus minimizing economic losses.

Food and Beverage Industry: The production of fluid foods such as juice, milk, and syrup requires high-precision metering to ensure product consistency. Coriolis mass flow meters can accommodate the measurement of fluids of varying viscosities and provide density monitoring to assist in quality control.

Pharmaceutical Industry: In pharmaceutical preparation, filling, and reaction processes, Coriolis flow meters accurately measure trace amounts of liquids, ensuring the stability and consistency of pharmaceutical formulations. New Energy and Environmental Protection: The high precision and corrosion resistance of Coriolis mass flowmeters make them key measuring instruments in fields such as biofuels, battery materials, and wastewater treatment.

3. Key Points for Selecting a Coriolis Mass Flowmeter

When selecting a Coriolis mass flowmeter, comprehensive considerations must be made, taking into account process conditions, fluid characteristics, and the operating environment. These considerations primarily include the following:

3.1 Flow Range

The flow range directly impacts the flowmeter's measurement accuracy and applicability. Generally, the flow range of a Coriolis mass flowmeter should be slightly higher than the maximum flow rate in the process to ensure high-precision measurement across the entire flow range. However, an excessively large or small flow range can lead to unstable measurements or abnormal vibration.

3.2 Accuracy Grade

Accuracy is a key indicator of flowmeter performance. Coriolis flowmeters typically achieve an accuracy of ±0.1% to ±0.2% (mass flow rate), performing exceptionally well for high-precision measurement requirements. When selecting a Coriolis mass flowmeter, choose the appropriate accuracy grade based on the process requirements to avoid increased costs due to excessively high accuracy or measurement errors due to insufficient accuracy.

3.3 Fluid Characteristics

The density, viscosity, corrosiveness, and particle content of different fluids can affect the suitability of a flowmeter. For example:

For high-viscosity fluids, choose a flowmeter with a vibrating tube structure suitable for high viscosities to ensure stable pipe vibration.

For corrosive liquids, choose a flowmeter made of corrosion-resistant materials (such as 316L stainless steel or Hastelloy).

3.4 Connection Method and Pipe Diameter

The flowmeter's pipe diameter and connection method should match the process piping. Common connection methods include flanges, threads, and clamps. The pipe diameter selection should take into account pressure loss, flow rate, and installation space.

3.5 Signal Output and Communication Protocol

Modern industrial automation requires flowmeters to support multiple output signals, such as 4–20 mA, HART, Modbus, and Profibus, to facilitate integration with PLC, DCS, or SCADA systems. Signal compatibility must be confirmed when selecting a flowmeter.

3.6 Operating Environment

The flowmeter's installation environment, including temperature, pressure, and explosion-proof rating, can also influence the selection process:

High-temperature and high-pressure: Choose a flowmeter resistant to high temperatures and high pressures. Explosion-proof requirements: Explosion-proof certified products are required for hazardous locations such as the chemical and petroleum industries.

For outdoor installation: Consider the IP rating and ensure protection against rain and dust.

3.7 Cost and After-Sales Service

Coriolis mass flowmeters are relatively expensive, but in the long run, the benefits of process optimization and loss reduction brought about by high precision often outweigh the purchase cost. Choosing a supplier with a reliable brand and comprehensive after-sales service can ensure long-term stable operation.

4. Installation and Maintenance Precautions for Coriolis Mass Flowmeters

4.1 Installation Precautions

Horizontal or vertical installation: Follow the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid measurement artifacts caused by pipe vibration or bubble accumulation.

Straight Pipe Requirements: Ensure the length of straight pipe inflow and outflow to minimize the effects of turbulence on measurement.

Avoid pump inlets or elbows: Avoid strong turbulence and pulsating flow that may interfere with measurement accuracy.

4.2 Maintenance and Calibration

Regular Cleaning: Keep the pipe clean, especially when measuring sediment-prone fluids such as slurries and emulsions.

Regular Calibration: It is recommended to perform a standard flow calibration every 1-2 years to ensure accuracy. Troubleshooting: Common issues include zero-point drift, abnormal vibration, and abnormal output signals. Contact the manufacturer or technical support immediately.

5. Recommendations for Selecting a Suitable Supplier

Selecting a reliable Coriolis mass flowmeter supplier is crucial. When evaluating a supplier, consider the following:

Product performance: Are multiple models available? Can they meet specific process requirements?

Technical support: Are installation guidance, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting services comprehensive?

After-sales service: Are there rapid response times, warranty services, and spare parts availability?

Customer case studies: The supplier's successful cases in related industries can serve as a reference.

Reputable domestic and international Coriolis flowmeter suppliers often offer customized solutions and can recommend suitable models based on process parameters.

Coriolis mass flowmeters, with their high accuracy and ability to directly measure mass flow and density, have become essential metering equipment in industries such as chemicals, food and beverages, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and new energy. When selecting a Coriolis mass flowmeter, consider factors such as flow range, accuracy, fluid characteristics, pipe diameter, signal output, and operating environment. Pay close attention to installation and maintenance. Through scientific selection and proper use, Coriolis mass flowmeters can effectively improve production efficiency, reduce measurement errors, and save companies significant costs.

With the selection guide provided in this article, companies and engineers can confidently select the Coriolis mass flowmeter that best suits their processes, achieving accurate measurement and efficient production.

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