Optimise Your Liquid Batching System : 5 Flow Meter Considerations
Titan Enterprises , a leading provider of flow metering solutions , have been designing and manufacturing accurate and reliable flow meters for batch control systems for over 40 years . Titan reports on the considerations required when choosing a flow measuring device for batching control .
Titan has published a white paper on the use of ultrasonic flowmeters in high-speed batching but here we focus on the general batching system . We discuss five key considerations when choosing a flow meter that will ensure your batching process runs smoothly .
Probably the most recognised batch filling system is that of beverages , either directly into a glass or into bottles . But batching systems are also integral to the pharmaceutical and medical , and chemical and oil industries . Additive injection or chemical dosing are typical applications where flow meters are used to precisely control the amount of liquid dispensed , which is critical in such processes .
1 . Repeatability is essential for a productive batching process
Multiple uncertainties can change the amount of liquid being dispensed , causing
18 FDPP - www . fdpp . co . uk a negative effect on the repeatability of the system . Controlling as many process variables as possible will help to ensure the accuracy and repeatability of flow measurement . Flowmeters , such as Titans ’ mini turbines , can boast repeatability of 0.1 % or better when operating under the same conditions .
2 . The physical properties of the batch-filled liquid will dictate equipment requirements
The choice of flowmeter may be limited by the properties of the liquid – whether it is viscous , volatile , corrosive , flammable , or contaminated with particles , for example . An oval gear flowmeter would be ideal for batch-dosing high-viscosity liquids such as syrups , whereas a turbine flow device , such as Titan ’ s 800-series flowmeters , are more appropriate for water and beer dispensing .
3 . Maintaining constant process conditions
Changes in flow rate , temperature and pressure may cause the flow meter to function in an unpredictable dynamic way . Although maintaining operating parameters at a stable point is optimal , this may not always be possible and fluctuating flow rates for example , can be compensated for by using a higher specification measuring device , such as Titans ’ Atrato ® ultrasonic flowmeter .
4 . Constant liquid flow or pulsations ?
Keeping the overall flow constant and avoiding any pulsations within the batching system will prevent aliasing and incorrect flow readings over the batch operating cycle . If pulsation is inherent , the choice of flowmeter is crucial in mitigating the effects of pulsating flow .
5 . Limiting system inertia
Simple adjustments to the batch system design , such as control value specification and the positioning of the flow meter , can help to offset the effects of inertia .
Choosing the correct flow meter for a batch system can be complex and Titan Enterprises are happy to help you find the best flow meter solution for your process and plant .
For further information on Titan ’ s flowmeter and instrumentation range or to discuss any process and technical issues , please contact Titan Enterprises on + 44 ( 0 ) 1935 812790 or sales @ flowmeters . co . uk . Visit our website at www . flowmeters . co . uk