Proper installation of mass flow fluids measurement devices and elements is critical if you want to get the best performance in your flow system or application. You will know that you’ve installed your mass flow meter properly from the moment you turn the system on. The mass flow meter is supposed to give you correct and accurate data from the word go. This article is useful for anyone who wants to install a mass flow meter but is unsure how to do it properly. We have listed down essential tips to help you properly install controllers for gases or thermal mass flow meters.
Mass Flow Meter Mounting Position
Properly mounting your mass flow meter is critical if you want to get the best out of your fluids measurement system. The thermal flow meter should be placed horizontally. This is especially so if you intend to use it for measuring the high-pressure flow rate ( > 10 bar for by-pass instruments). In addition, mass flow meters should not be placed near a heat source or areas that experience mechanical vibrations.
Keep Away from Interruptions
Abrupt angles should be avoided. You should also install your mass flow meter away from objects that obstruct the flow path. Such objects may cause turbulence in the flow meter’s outlet or inlet. For high-pressure flows, it is recommended that you use a straight pipeline length which is 10x the diameter of the pipe used, be placed before and after the mass flow meter.
Name Plate (serial number label)
Before installing your mass flow meter, ensure that you have read and understood the nameplate or serial number label. It contains crucial information about fluids measurement, including flow range, electrical connection, inlet and outlet pressure, ATEX classification (when applicable), media to be measured, and input & output signals. It is also good to check the process gas compatibility with the sealing material.
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
A thermal mass flow meter is made up of components whose sensitivity to electrostatic discharges is high. ESD refers to a sudden electric flow between two objects that are electrically charged. This is caused by contact. Therefore, these components are at risk of getting damaged when they contact a charged object or person.
Pressure
Pressure should be avoided until there is an electrical connection. Then, when applying pressure, the user should be cautious to avoid pressure shocks. Pressure should also be increased gradually.
Inspect the Pipeline
Always check whether the system’s piping is clean before installing the mass flow meter. Filters should be placed to ensure that the stream is oil- and moisture-free. You are installing an in-line filter upstream of the controller or mass flow meter. If your system is likely to experience a backflow, filters should also be placed downstream to use a check valve instead.
In-line Installation
When installing a controller mass flow meter in-line, you need to go by the supplier’s instructions when tightening the fittings.
Piping Diameter
Since the accuracy of the inlet jet flow will be affected, leading to high-pressure drops over the piping and adapters, you should not place small diameter piping on high flow rates. Reducing turbulence effects demands choosing the right pipe diameter.
Leak Testing
When you apply pressure in the system for fluids measurement, inspect the flow system for leaks. This helps to avoid disasters if you are using dangerous fluids such as toxic or explosive substances.
Power Up
The mass flow meter needs about 30 minutes of powering to ensure that the mass flow instrument is warmed up and stabilized. You can do this with or without fluid pressure, which is applied to the stem.
Conclusion
Whenever you want to maximize your mass flow meter and ensure that it performs as expected in fluids measurement, you need to ensure that you have followed the due process of installation. We hope that this guide was quite helpful to you, and you are now ready to order and install your mass flow meter or controller. Inquire from the manufacturer if you are not sure what installation requirements are needed.
