Key Considerations for Installing Electromagnetic Flowmeters

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RF3300-E Electromagnetic Flowmeter
RF3300-E Electromagnetic Flowmeter

 

Make sure to consistently adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and upkeep to achieve optimal functioning and lifespan of the electromagnetic flowmeter.

In this blog, we will examine the critical elements involved in installing flowmeters, concentrating on three main areas: piping design, sensor placement, and machinery configuration. Proper installation is essential for ensuring precise measurements and the durability of your flowmeter system.

Installing electromagnetic flowmeters necessitates meticulous planning to guarantee accurate operation and longevity. At Rocksensor, we understand the significance of correct installation. Here are the key considerations:

1. Choosing the Installation Location

The placement of your flowmeter is vital for its effective function:

  • Dry and Airy Spaces: Select a site that is both dry and well-ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation.

 

  • Protection from Environmental Elements: For installations outdoors, employ protective covers to safeguard the meter from rain and direct sunlight.The optimal operating temperature range is from -20°C to +60°C.

 

  • Avoiding Temperature Extremes: Keep the meter away from areas with drastic temperature changes or high thermal radiation. Insulation and proper airflow may be necessary to counteract these conditions.

 

  • Corrosive Conditions: Avoid areas with corrosive gases. If installation in such environments is unavoidable, ensure adequate ventilation and apply anti-       corrosion strategies.

 

  • Minimizing Vibration: Install the flowmeter away from sources of strong vibrations. If the piping experiences significant movement, use fixed brackets on   both sides to provide stability.

 

  • Water Resistance: Opt for flowmeters with appropriate protection ratings — IP68 for immersion up to 3 meters, and IP65 which should not be exposed to water.

 

2. Minimising Electromagnetic Interference

For precise measurements, ensure:

  • Distance from Electrical Equipment: Position the flowmeter at a distance from motors, transformers, and other electromagnetic interference sources. Avoid deriving power from converter distribution cabinets.

3. Ensuring Proper Pipe Configuration

Correct pipe alignment is essential for accurate flow measurement:

  • Straight Pipe Length: To enhance accuracy, ensure there is at least five times the pipe diameter (5D) of straight pipe upstream and three times (3D) downstream of the sensor. This setup helps reduce flow disturbances.

4. Providing Maintenance Space

Ample space is crucial for continuous upkeep:

  • Access for Maintenance: Ensure there is enough room around the flowmeter for straightforward installation and maintenance access.

5. Preventing Flow Interruptions

To facilitate seamless operation:

  • Bypass and Cleaning Ports: Integrate a bypass line and cleaning ports into your installation. This feature allows the system to keep functioning even when the flowmeter requires maintenance.

6. Supporting the Flowmeter

Proper support is critical to prevent installation complications:

  • Stable Installation: Avoid attaching the flowmeter to pipes prone to free vibrations. Use a stable and secure foundation for the measuring pipe.If the flowmeter is underground, make sure there are supports on both the inlet and outlet pipelines, and consider using protective metal  plates above for additional safety.

Straight pipe length requirements

RF3300 E Electromagnetic flowmeter
Installation whose valve is downstream of the sensor
Installation whose valve is upstream of the sensor
Installation whose valve is upstream of the sensor

 

The Connection which is easy to clean pipe

Situation where the pipe needs to be cleaned and the fluid conduitcannot stop, you must install a bypass pipe to be able to continue running during cleaning system
Situation where the pipe needs to be cleaned and the fluid  conduit cannot stop, you must install a bypass pipe to be able to continue running during cleaning system.

RF3300 Electromagnetic FlowmeterInstalling Your Flowmeter: Ensuring Accurate Flow Direction Detection

When setting up your flowmeter, it is crucial to configure it correctly for reliable operation. A significant feature of this flowmeter is its capability to automatically identify the flow direction, whether it is positive or negative.

Understanding Flow Direction

The flow arrow located on the sensor housing indicates the positive flow direction as designated by the manufacturer. To achieve optimal performance, this arrow should be aligned with the actual flow in your system.

Installation Steps

  1. Identify the Flow Direction: Prior to installation, ascertain the direction of flow within your piping system. This step is crucial for ensuring precise measurements.
  2. Install the flowmeter with the arrow on the sensor housing facing the direction of the process flow. Proper alignment is key to achieving accurate flow measurements.
  3. Secure the Installation: After alignment, make sure that the flowmeter is firmly mounted, adhering to any additional installation guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

Preferred position for electromagnetic flowmeter installation

Installation Orientation of Electromagnetic Flowmeters

When it comes to installing electromagnetic flowmeters, the orientation is vital for ensuring precise measurements. Sensors can be set up in either a horizontal or vertical position, but each approach has particular considerations:

Horizontal Installation

For horizontal installation, it’s important that the electrodes are aligned in a horizontal plane. This arrangement helps to prevent complications caused by bubbles or sediment build-up. By ensuring that bubbles do not gather near the electrodes, you reduce the potential for zero drift and enhance the reliability of the signal coming from the converter.

Vertical Installation

In the case of vertical installations, the electrodes must also be arranged vertically. This configuration facilitates the efficient drainage of any bubbles or sediment, thereby reducing interference in measurements.

Recommended mounting position

recommend mounting position of flowmeter

To prevent the separation of phases in a liquid that contains solid particles or a slurry, installing an electromagnetic flowmeter in a vertical orientation is effective. This arrangement can help ensure even wear on the sensor due to the second lining, while also preventing three types of impurities from settling at the bottom of the tube and going unmeasured.

It is crucial to maintain a flow direction that goes from the bottom to the top, as this ensures that the measuring tube of the sensor remains consistently filled with the medium.

Electromagnetic flowmeters cannot be installed in the suction side to prevent negative pressure produced by vacuum.
Electromagnetic flowmeters cannot be installed in the suction side to prevent negative pressure produced by              vacuum.

 

Installation that downstream of the sensor has back pressure
Installation that downstream of the sensor has back pressure

 

Install in the bottom section of the open drain pipe
Install in the bottom section of the open drain pipe

 

valves shall be installed downstream of the electromagnetic flowmeterwhere the pipe drop exceeds 5 meters
valves shall be installed downstream of the electromagnetic flow where the pipe drop exceeds 5 meters

 

No bubbles in the pipe

Rocksensor Flowmeter Mounting

The design of the piping must ensure that gas does not separate from the liquid. It is essential to install the meter before the valve since the valve lowers the pressure in the pipe, which may lead to bubble formation. Additionally, instruments should be placed in the lower section to minimise the impact of entrained air bubbles on the measurements.

Machinery Installation: Key Guidelines for Flowmeter Setup

Installing the Flowmeter Pipe

Calibration of the Pipeline: Prior to the flowmeter installation, it’s essential to calibrate the pipeline. Make sure the flowmeter’s diameter is correctly match with the user’s pipeline. For sensors with a nominal diameter smaller than 50mm, the axis deviation on the high side should be no  greater than 1.5mm . For diameters ranging from 65mm to 300mm, the maximum acceptable deviation is 2mm, while for diameters  of 350mm or more, it should not go beyond 4mm.

Cleaning the Pipeline: Newly installed pipes frequently have residual foreign materials, like welding debris. Before the flowmeter is set up, it is crucial to thoroughly clean out any contaminants. This step is necessary to protect the lining from damage and to prevent measurement   inaccuracies that may occur from particles entering the measuring tube during operation.

By adhering to these installation guidelines, you can ensure the reliable and efficient operation of your electromagnetic flowmeter over time. For any questions, please visit our website or contact us at info@rocksensor.in We look forward to assisting you — stay connected with Rocksensor!

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