Bronkhorst®
Instruction Manual mini CORI-FLOW™ M1x
9.17.050O
17
3
Operation
After correct installation of the
mini CORI-FLOW™ M1x
Mass Flow Meter (MFM) or Mass Flow Controller (MFC), and when all
safety precautions have been taken into account, the instrument can be used for measuring/ controlling the required flow
rate in the system.
3.1
Powering up
To maintain control of the fluid system and ensure a safe situation, it is recommended to turn on power before applying
fluid pressure and to switch off power only after the fluid system is depressurized.
When applying pressure, avoid pressure shocks and bring the fluid system gradually up to the level of the required
operating conditions; open the fluid supply gently.
For best performance, allow the device to warm up and stabilize for at least 30 minutes before starting measurement
and/or control. This may be done with or without media flow.
When powering up, the instrument needs a couple of seconds to start up the electronics and perform a self-test. After
successful initialization, the green LED will glow continuously to indicate that the instrument is ready to use.
3.2
First use
·
Despite the fact that everything necessary has been done to ensure the cleanliness of the product upon delivery, the
presence of some remaining contaminants cannot be ruled out completely.
·
In order to prevent undesired reactions, purging the instrument for a minimum of 30 minutes with a dry, inert gas (like
Nitrogen or Argon) is recommended before first use. In systems for use with corrosive or reactive media, this is even
absolutely necessary.
·
During the manufacturing process, the instrument has been tested with water. Purging prior to first use is also
recommended to remove any remaining water droplets.
The very first time the instrument is used, adjusting the zero point is recommended. See
background information and instructions.
3.3
Preventing slug flow
Reliable measurement results can only be obtained if the fluid flows through the instrument in a single state (either gas or
liquid). The following measures can help prevent so called 'slug flow' (two-phase flow):
Before starting measurement and control:
·
for liquid applications, remove (dissolved) gas from the system, by flushing the instrument and all fluid lines with the
process fluid at a high flow rate
·
for gas applications, remove condensation from the system, by purging the instrument and all fluid lines with a dry gas
at a high flow rate
During measurement and control:
·
avoid external heating or cooling (can cause gas bubbles in liquid or condensation of gas).
·
avoid extreme pressure fluctuations (can cause cavitation in liquid or condensation of gas).
3.4
After use
·
Depending on the properties of the process medium and the (expected) time until the next use, it is advisable to flush the
fluid system with a suitable (cleaning) fluid after use.
·
If the equipment has been used to process corrosive, reactive or hazardous media (e.g. toxic or flammable), cleaning the
fluid system is even absolutely necessary before it is exposed to air.
·
If the instrument is not used for an extended period, the fluid system should be dry after use and after cleaning. If not, it
should be purged with a dry, inert gas for a recommended minimum period of 30 minutes.
3.5
Powering down
·
Prior to powering down the mini CORI-FLOW, the fluid system should be depressurized.
·
When depressurizing, prevent sudden pressure changes, by shutting off the fluid supply gradually.
