Magnetic flowmeters are most widely used, while mass and turbine flow technologies are gaining importance. Meanwhile, reliability and need for easy calibration rose significantly in importance with buyers from 2001 to 2003.

These are among findings from Control Engineering and Reed Research Group surveys on flowmeters, designed to learn where reader/subscribers are using and what they are looking for when they buy flowmeters. Over time, 'Product Focus' research shows definite patterns and trends.

Control Engineering subscribers represent a broad number of industries and have many job titles, thus they are buying, specifying, and/or recommending flowmeters for use in diverse applications including chemical, military, aerospace, and waste treatment.

Analyzing the results of the past two (2001 and 2003) flowmeter product focus surveys and Control Engineering's 2002 purchasing study indicates subscribers most likely to be involved in applying flowmeters have a title of control and/or instrument engineer, specify two to eight units per year for full-flow pipe measurements in continuous processes, and pay an average of $1,700 per unit. During the next 12 months, they expect their flowmeter spending to remain about the same. Respondents were widely distributed, but the largest number, by state and company type, work in California for a systems integrator.

Magnetic flowmeters continue to represent the number one flowmeter technology purchased; however, since the 2001 study, mass and turbine flow technologies moved into the number two and number three most purchased positions while orifice flow measurement moved to the number four position.

Changes in these upper technology positions reflect what's likely to be a continued replacement of the long-standing orifice measurement technology as: 1) manufacturers continue to make significant primary sensing technology advancements; and 2) custody transfer regulatory agencies recognize and accept newer, more accurate flow technologies.

The 2001 and 2003 survey asked responders to rank eight flowmeter buying influences. (See 'Buying influences ranked very or extremely important' table.)

Though several of the listed elements could be grouped together under the 'low cost of ownership' heading, asking responders to rank each separately provides valuable insight as to what's really important to those who are specifying, buying, and/or recommending flowmeters.

For more manufacturers, visit www.controleng.com/buyersguide. For system integrators go to www.controleng.com/integrators. To request free information from vendors, use the enter numbers provided, at www.controleng.com/freeinfo.

Comments? E-mail dharrold@reedbusiness.com

Rosemount's Model 8721 sanitary magnetic flowmeter features product contact surfaces constructed of FDA approved materials designed in accordance with 3A and EHEDG standards. The flowtube is CIP/SIP cleanable, and the flowtube inner diameter(I.D.) matches process piping I.D. to eliminate hard-to-clean areas. A variety of sanitary process connections with easy access to process gaskets facilitate inspection and maintenance.

Emerson Process-Rosemount

Using zirconium for all wetted parts, Endress+Hauser's Promass H flowmeter is designed to measure mass flow of hydrochloric and other highly corrosive acids over a wide concentration and temperature range. The Promass H delivers flow accuracy of ±0.15% over a temperature range of -60° to 400° F (-51° to 204° C) and is available in sizes from 3/8 to 1-1/2 inch for flow rates up to 1,650 lb/min. 

 Endress+Hauser

Micro Motion's Elite flowmeters are available using the ISO 17025 standard for calibration-uncertainty-percentage (uncertainty ratio). Through improved manufacturing procedures and application of the ISO 17025 gravimetric calibration procedures, Elite flowmeters can be delivered with an accredited accuracy-to-uncertainty ratio of approximately 8:1 (typical Coriolis flowmeter uncertainty ratios are approximately 2:1) resulting in a confirmed calibration uncertainty of 0.012%. 

Emerson Process-Micro Motion

Designed with built-in reducers and the ability to accommodate replaceable bores, Yokogawa's Yewflo vortex flowmeters can accommodate up to two meter-size step downs. Utilizing the Yewflo's sensor technology and signal processing techniques, the new reducer design is available in integral or remote configurations with flanged connections in line sizes from 1 to 12-in. Available communications include HART, FOUNDATION fieldbus, and Yokogawa Brain protocols.

  Yokogawa

With prices starting at $200, Omega's FP7000 paddlewheel flow sensor provides an inexpensive, accurate means of monitoring corrosive aqueous solutions and high purity fluids. When ordered with the dual relay option, FP7000 sensors can provide rate indication, or totalization and batch control. 

Omega Engineering

Using an advanced molding process provides Honeywell's Magnew 3000 Plus magnetic flowmeters with improved liner surface smoothness for reduced wear and improved flow measurement. The Magnew 3000 Plus is available in a variety of meter diameters, flow ranges, and flange and wafer flow detector configurations. Flow output options include 4-20mA, HART, FOUNDATION fieldbus, and Honeywell Digitally Enhanced communication protocols.

  Honeywell ACS

ABB has added FOUNDATION fieldbus communication protocol to its DE21 and DE23 magnetic, 10VT1000 vortex, and 10ST1000 swirl flowmeters. Already available with HART and Profibus communication capabilities, the DE magmeters are members of ABB's XE line of sanitary flowmeters for the food and pharmaceutical industries. The 10VT1000 and 10ST1000 flowmeters are used for similar applications; the 10ST1000 works with short inlet and/or outlet sections.

  ABB

GE Panametrics GC868 flowmeter is a fixed-installation flowmeter designed for unlined metal and plastic pipe from 3- to 36-in. diameter. GC868 uses Correlation Transit-Time detection techniques to achieve accuracies of ±2% of reading (±0.5% repeatability) for gas flows over 6 ft/sec., using traditional flowmeter installation methods.

GE Power Systems

HART digital communications protocol has been added to the Invensys Model IMV25 multivariable transmitter line. Other IMV25 intelligent transmitter enhancements add the ability to measurer 0.5 to 840 in H₂O (0.12 to 210 kPa) differential pressure, absolute pressures to 1,500 psi (10 MPa), and compatibility with any DIN/IEC 2, 3, or 4-wire, 100 Ohm, platinum RTD. 

Invensys Production Management

Brooks Instruments Mf Series of gas mass flow controllers is available with IP65/NEMA 4X or explosion-proof housings, and is UL listed for Class 1 Division 2 hazardous locations. Available digital communication protocols include DeviceNet, FOUNDATION fieldbus, and Profibus DP. Built-in monitoring and on-line diagnostic capabilities permit users to conduct inline process troubleshooting. 

Emerson Process - Brooks

Siemens' Novolak is a patented magnetic flow meter insulating liner material that's suitable for use in potable water applications, is resistant to aggressive chemicals, and withstands the wear and tear of sand/water slurries. Novolak liners' smooth, non-porous surface is suitable for high pressure and absolute vacuum applications.

Siemens

Burkert's 8712 mass flow controller provides a tool for testing medical equipment product integrity. Designed for neutral, non-contaminated gases, the 8712 offers nominal flow rates of 20 ml/min to 50l/min. Accuracy is ±1% of reading and ±0.5% of full scale. Linearity is ±1% full scale. Repeatability is ±0.5% full scale, with a maximum operating pressure of 10 bar (145 psi). 

Burkert