© 2017 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SINL-UK | Revision:1701 | Date:22-03-2017
10
VPFlowScope in-line
5
Measurement
For all parameters the update interval is 1 second. Within this second, multiple samples are taken
and averaged to provide a stable and reliable output.
5.1
Flow
The VPFlowScope in-line uses our proprietary insertion type thermal mass flow sensor. There is no
bypass flow, which results in a high robustness and less sensitivity for dirt or particles. The flow
sensor is directly temperature compensated.
The sensor response signal is directly related to
the mass flow rate and can be described by the
following formula:
Vout = k *λ* ρ * v * (Ts-Tg)
Vout = output voltage
k = sensor (geometrical) constant
λ = thermal conductivity of the gas
ρ = density of the gas
v = actual velocity in m / sec
Ts = sensor temperature
Tg = gas temperature
The optional bi-directional sensitivity is shown in
the picture on the right. In bi-directional mode the
negative flow value will show up as a minus sign.
The 4..20 mA value needs to be adapted to suit
the application.
See chapter 9.1 for details.
5.2
Pressure
The VPFlowScope in-line features a built-in gauge pressure sensor. The sensor range is 0...250 psi,
rounded off this equals 0...16 bar gauge. The sensor cannot measure vacuum, please contact us if
you have a vacuum application. The sensor membrane can handle media which are compatible with
glass, silicon, stainless steel, Sn/Ni, plating and An/Ag solder.
The sensor signal is sampled with 16 bits. The practical resolution is 0.24 mbar on the 0..16 bar
scale, which is equal to 0.004 psi on the 250 psi scale.
5.3
Temperature
The built in temperature sensor measures the compressed air/ gas temperature. It is mounted in a
separate position, to ensure quick response time and low self-heating of the sensor element.
The signal is sampled with 16 bits. The resolution is less than 0.1 °C.
In a vertical pipe, with flow going down, the temperature sensor may heat up at zero flow conditions,
due to the heated flow sensor element. This effect will disappear as soon as there is consumption.
For optimal measurement performance, the VPlowScope in-line needs to be in a stable temperature
environment. When exposed to quick temperature changes or large temperature changes (for
example taking the unit from outdoor to indoor during winter time, or when mounted downstream of a
heat regenerated drier) the temperature compensation may lag behind, which may result in
significant measurement errors.
