Advanced New Dynamic Flow Sensor Detects Precise Pulsating Rates
Flow sensors are critical in applications that require fine control and choosing the right type is essential.
Here, we will consider flow rate sensor selection and EGE-Elektronik Spezial-Sensoren GmbH (EGE)'s latest dynamic flow sensor designed for high accuracy applications.
EGE is a company that has been designing sensors for automation applications since the 1970s. They recently released this new flow sensor built for industrial and automation applications.
Flow Rate Sensors
Flow rate sensors come in a wide range of types. Some utilize propellers connected to a motor which produces a voltage proportional to the flow rate, while others use a displacement method where they measure how long it takes to fill a specified area.
When choosing a flow rate sensor several factors need to be considered. This includes type of liquid measured, liquid pressure, and accuracy. The liquid that is being measured is arguably one of the most important considerations as some liquids can be damaging to certain sensor types.
The SDN 500 Built With New Internal and External Features
For applications that require an accurate flow rate sensor that is able to measure pulsating rates down to 0.02ml, the SDN 500 flow rate sensor by EGE may be the solution. This flow rate sensor is able to work with a wide range of commonly used liquids including water, alcohol, oil, and fluid greases. It is also able to react to changes in flow rate within 0.1s.
The new SDN 500 flow rate sensor. Image used courtesy of EGE-Elektronik Spezial-Sensoren GmbH.
The SDN 500 has an external potentiometer to adjust its sensitivity, has a short-circuit proof PNP Normally Open output, and can hold its output for up to 10 seconds.
The sensor is rated for use up to 10 bar, can operate in a temperature range between 0°C to +80°C, and is IP54 rated. For connection to external systems, the SDN 500 utilizes an M12 connector and is operated at 24V DC making it compatible with typical industrial systems such as PLCs.
The SDN 500 Utilizes Thermal Mass Flow
Internally, the sensor has multiple temperature sensors and a heating element that is attached to the outside of the inner pipeline that measures the flow. The heating element provides a uniform heat source that warms the internal liquid and the two temperature sensors, which are placed at each end of the internal pipe.
These then measure the temperature at their respective location.
As the flow rate increases, the temperature sensor at the inlet will begin to cool down and the difference in temperature between the two sensors indicates the flow rate. What makes this technology highly desirable, is the non-contact nature of the design.
This means that the fluid flowing through the sensor is not in contact with any moving parts or electronics, therefore more suitable for use with corrosive or conductive liquids.
The sensor is designed for use in fine control in the chemical reaction process and can be used with dosing pistons for the delivery of small quantities of reagents.
The SDN 500 has no moving parts, which is practical for applications requiring reliability and the use of a non-contact method. This means that it can measure a wide range of fluids without damage.
EGE's wide variety of products, including the flow sensor. Image used courtesy of EGE-Elektronik Spezial-Sensoren GmbH.
The flow rate sensor's high accuracy makes it applicable for dispensing small quantities of fluid, and utilizing a lubrication system to ensure that a minimum amount of lubrication is dispensed.
EGE offers a variety of products in addition to the new flow sensor, including level controllers, proximity switches, process sensors, and more.
Do you use flow rate sensors?
