Insight Metering has announced the development of a new ultrasonic flowmeter designed to improve accuracy and installation flexibility in challenging flow measurement applications.
The iSonic-8X-L3 ultrasonic flowmeter (USM) is claimed to be the only device of its type capable of ensonifying and measuring 100% of the flow field, addressing common limitations associated with conventional ultrasonic meters. According to the company, the design eliminates measurement errors caused by changes in Reynolds number, hydraulic disturbances, fouling and short inlet pipe runs.
The new meter has been independently test validated by Traceable Labs and is built using the same electronics platform as Insight Metering’s existing iSonic-8X system, which is currently in operation in South America and Africa and complies with ASME B31.3 standards.
By measuring the entire velocity profile, the iSonic-8X-L3 removes the need for flow conditioners, which can clog, require maintenance and add pressure loss to systems. This approach also allows the meter to be installed in tight pipework layouts, reducing the need for long upstream piping and lowering installation costs.
Insight Metering said the device offers extended flow ranges with low pressure loss, enabling the use of smaller meters in some applications. The company compares the measurement principle to that of magnetic flowmeters, which measure the entire induced electric field, and Coriolis meters, which capture full mass flow through tube vibration.
Don Augenstein, founder of Insight Metering, said the company set out to overcome typical ultrasonic flowmeter challenges, including sensitivity to flow disturbances and reliance on flow conditioning. “By measuring the full cross-section of the flow, we have addressed those issues while improving system design flexibility,” he said.
First ultrasonic flowmeter to measure 100% of flow field
