Detection of Dynamic Installations Effects by an Ultras onic Flow Meter in Non-stationary Flow

Jonathan Berrebi, Jan van Deventer, Jerker Delsing
Abstract:
Installation effects represent a major cause of the metering errors in a flow meter. Ultrasonic flow meters are especially sensitive to installation effects. Installation effects can be static, like those due to pipe bends or diameter reduction at the inlet of the meter, or dynamic like pulsating flows generated by pumps. Recently presented, the detection of pulsating flows has been achieved in stationary flow conditions. In that case, the distribution of the flow rate is not supposed to vary with time. By applying Hinich's harmogram, the detection of pulsating flows is correctly done. However, in real cases, flow rates vary with time. The endless openings, closings, and adjustments of valves and faucets make the flow rate to vary with time. The aim of this article is to answer whether, or not, the method using the harmogram is suitable for detecting pulsating flows when the average flow rate over a pulsation period is time varying. The simulations provide good results for the detection of pulsations in such flows by the harmogram.
Keywords:
Ultrasonic flowmeter, pulsating flow, harmogram, non-stationary
Download:
IMEKO-TC9-2004-037.pdf
DOI:
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