The vortex flowmeter is a widely used instrument in industrial applications due to its unique characteristics and reliability. Below are the key features, application considerations, and installation guidelines for this type of flowmeter.
**Features**
Vortex flowmeters offer several advantages that make them suitable for various fluid measurement tasks:
1. The output is a pulse frequency, directly proportional to the actual volume flow of the measured fluid. This makes it unaffected by changes in fluid composition, density, pressure, or temperature.
2. It has an extensive measuring range, typically up to 10:1, allowing it to handle a wide variety of flow conditions.
3. The accuracy falls into the mid-range level, making it a reliable choice for most applications.
4. With no moving parts, it ensures high reliability and long-term performance.
5. Its simple and robust structure allows for easy installation and low maintenance costs.
6. It can be applied to liquids, gases, and steam, making it a versatile tool across different industries.
**Applications in the Field**
While vortex flowmeters are suitable for many fluids, there are some limitations. They are not recommended for low Reynolds number flows (Re D ≤ 2 × 10â´), as the Strouhal number may change with the Reynolds number, leading to reduced linearity.
Additionally, fluids containing solid particles may cause noise or damage to the vortex generator. Fibers can wrap around the generator, affecting the meter coefficient.
In mixed-phase fluids, vortex flowmeters can be used under certain conditions:
- For gas and liquid two-phase flows with small, uniform bubbles, the volumetric gas content should be below 7%–10%. If it exceeds 2%, a correction factor is needed.
- For gas-solid or liquid-solid two-phase flows with dispersed particles, the solid content should not exceed 2%.
- For immiscible liquid-liquid flows (e.g., oil and water), pulsating or swirling flows can significantly impact the meter's performance. Resonance may occur if the pulsation frequency matches the vortex frequency, causing signal "locking" and potential operational issues.
The accuracy of vortex flowmeters varies depending on the medium: ±0.5% to ±2% for liquids, and 0.2% to 0.5% for gases. Due to their limited frequency resolution, larger diameters tend to reduce accuracy. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to use sizes below DN300.
The wide rangeability of vortex flowmeters is one of their main strengths. However, the lower limit of the flow rate is critical. For liquids, the minimum average flow rate is about 0.5 m/s, while for gases, it ranges from 4 to 5 m/s. The optimal operating range is usually between 1/2 to 2/3 of the full scale.
A major advantage of vortex flowmeters is that their meter factor is not affected by the physical properties of the fluid. This allows for extension to other media using a reference medium. However, because gas and liquid have different flow rates and signal intensities, the circuit parameters must be adjusted accordingly. Even within the same medium, changes in pressure, temperature, and density will affect the signal, requiring different amplifier settings. Thus, changing the medium without hardware or software modification is not feasible.
**Installation Precautions**
Vortex flowmeters are sensitive to flow disturbances, swirls, and pipe irregularities. Proper installation is crucial for accurate measurements.
They can be installed indoors or outdoors, but if placed in a well, a waterproof sensor should be used. The sensor can be mounted horizontally, vertically, or at an angle, but care must be taken to avoid air bubbles or liquid accumulation when measuring gases or liquids.
The upstream and downstream straight pipe sections must meet specific length requirements to ensure stable flow conditions. Different fittings, such as elbows, valves, and expansions, may affect the flow profile and require additional straight piping.
When connecting the sensor to the pipeline, the following points should be considered:
- The inner diameter of the pipe should match the sensor’s diameter within a tolerance of 0.95D to 1.1D.
- The pipe must be concentric with the sensor, with a coaxiality less than 0.05D'.
- Gaskets should not protrude into the pipe and should have an inner diameter 1–2 mm larger than the sensor’s.
- A bypass pipe should be provided if flow checking or cleaning is required.
- Vibration control is essential. Install the sensor away from vibration sources, use flexible hoses for small pipes, and install supports to dampen vibrations effectively.
Compared to other types of flowmeters, vortex flowmeters are more cost-effective in terms of purchase, installation, and maintenance. They are ideal for industrial environments such as smelters, chemical plants, and oil pipelines, where durability and ease of use are essential.
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