The challenge of metering and controlling ultra-low fluidic flow

Once the principle has been understood then the challenges that we will face become easier to understand. Due to the ultra-low flow nature of the application the influence of one area can affect the rest of the system, because of this we have broken our advice down into specific areas of discussion.

Fluid Storage:

• For pressurised containers avoid using gas that dissolves in liquid, e.g. N₂/Air
• If fluid is water, use Di-Water

Filter Advice:

• Always use a filter
• Ensure filter has a large internal volume to minimise pressure drop
• Outlet needs to be position up to ensure trapped Air comes out during flush

General Advice:

• Make sure there are no leaks
• Make sure the entire system is filled with the same medium
• Ensure environment stability (temp, humidity, vibration)
• Use small volume tubes to avoid compliance
• Use a degasser to remove entrained AiR from the fluid

 

Knowing these 3 fluid parameters allows you to calculate the performance envelope that exists. This is something that is critical in instrumentation to ensure that you size a sensor correctly to achieve optimum performance following installation. Once the above conditions have been considered and a sensor has been found to meet the requirements of both the fluid and the application you are left with the conditions surrounding the sensor that can affect the quality of the readings generated.

All Coriolis instrument reading can be susceptible to external influence from vibration; this is why metering at low and ultra-low flow rates is such a challenging design process. If the environment around the application produces a vibration similar to that of the instrument it can cause false and inconsistent readings. Alongside external vibration issues it is possible to create ‘cross-talk’ where Coriolis instruments mounted next to each other incorrectly can cause interference.

Using mass blocks, considering your environment, allowing for physical functions of instruments in the design process will ensure you can achieve maximum performance.

It is important to discuss these limitations because they exist, however having seen Coriolis instruments on helicopters, at the bottom of the ocean and in submarines it just proves that due care and attention will mitigate low and ultra-low flow liquid metering challenges.

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