The DigitalFlow CTF878 clamp-on gas flowmeter from Panametrics utilises a technology called correlation tag to determine gas flow rate. This technique is very different from traditional ultrasonic transit-time measurement and is well suited for gas applications.
Correlation tag technology utilises a total of four clamp-on transducers externally mounted on a pipe. The transducers are arranged in two pairs, one upstream and one downstream. Each pair includes one transmitter sending ultrasound in a continuous wave mode through the fluid to its receiver, forming an upstream and downstream interrogation path.
The DigitalFlow CTF878 can measure a wide range of velocities in small to large pipes up to 46 m/s, giving it broad applicability in gas flow measurement. It is used on plastic and metal pipes from 150 to 750 mm in diameter. Accuracy is better than ±2% of reading, with repeatability of ±0.6% of reading. The turndown ratio is 43-to-1.
The DigitalFlow CTF878 flowmeter can be used in applications where penetrating the pipe wall is undesirable, making it suitable for erosive, corrosive, toxic, high-purity or sterile gases. Because the pipe is not tapped or cut, the cost for permanent installation is considerably lower than with other meters. There are no wetted or moving parts, there is no pressure drop and maintenance is seldom required.
A complete system comprises the DigitalFlow CTF878 electronics, two pairs of clamp-on gas ultrasonic transducers, two preamplifiers for the receiving transducers and a clamping fixture to mount the transducers on the pipe.