Introduction to a thermal mass flow meter
A thermal mass flow meter consists of small mechanical parts like vertex meters, Coriolis flow meter, magnetic and ultrasonic. In recent years, the popularity of these devices has increased. In this article, we’ll dig deeper to find out how these devices work and what kind of benefits they offer.
Why do you need to measure natural gas?
Natural gas has a variable degree of energy content because it has many additives such as chemicals, water vapor, and other gases. If natural gas is high in energy content, it means that it has many heavier hydrocarbons like propane, butane, and ethane.
If you have identified trace gases, such as hydrogen, sulfides, and carbon dioxide, know that the energy content is insufficient. Once you have determined the calorific value, you can increase its energy content. For this purpose, you can use mass flow meters.
The function of these devices is to obtain the measurement of the natural gas flow. The gauge accurately displays the pressure drop. If the gas has a lot of energy content, it can increase the efficiency of the boiler. You can save a lot of money if you can get accurate measurements.
Why should you opt for a thermal mass flow meter?
If you are interested in knowing the flow of natural gas, you can use these meters. Note that these devices have nothing to do with the volume of natural gas. Basically, it uses heat to calculate the overall measurement.
Actually, the matter depends on the thermal conductivity and the thermal properties of the gas. The device uses two different processes to find out how heat is dispersed in the gas. Below are the two methods that these devices used for this purpose.
1. Constant temperature differential
This method uses a couple of sensors on the device. The first sensor heats up, while the other one maintains, measures and controls the temperature of the gas. The mass flow rate is determined by calculating the electrical power. This flow is necessary to ensure that there is sufficient heat between the sensors.
2. Constant current
This method uses the same sensors. However, there is constant heat throughout the process. The mass flow is calculated based on the temperature difference between the sensors.
Advantages of a thermal mass flow meter
There are many benefits to you by using a thermal mass flow meter to calculate natural gas flow. Here are some of the main benefits that you can enjoy using these devices.
1. These devices have a fast response time
2. The device allows you to measure gases even if they have low pressure
3. The meter is an excellent choice if you want to monitor and control gas flow.
4. They help in the measurement of large pipes.
5. These devices are cost effective unlike other available alternatives.
In short, this was an introduction to thermal mass flowmeters. I hope this article has been helpful to you.
