New technology: Baumer expands calorimetric process sensor range
Baumer has expanded its range of FlexFlow process sensors, with the aim of delivering highly efficient and flexible solutions.
The sensors are designed to enable the monitoring of both flow and velocity in addition to media temperature in a single instrument. According to Baumer, the combination of two measuring functions in a single sensor reduces the number of measuring points required in closed systems, and therefore minimises installation costs, service and storage.
Baumer’s FlexFlow sensors are based on the calorimetric measurement principle which relies on the physical laws of heat in transfer flows. In general, calorimetric sensors consist of a measuring probe with two temperature sensors integrated into it. One of the sensors is heated continuously with an integrated heating element (wire-wound), to measure the temperature at the heating element. The second sensor determines the temperature of the medium in the pipe.
Electronics register the temperature difference between the two sensors, which can then be used to determine the flow. Put simply, the higher flow velocity in the pipe line, the smaller the temperature difference between the two sensors, a consequence of the cooling effect of flowing media.
Key features
According to Baumer, the FlexFlow sensor range is suitable for CIP Cleaning, flow measurement in ultra-clean media, dry-running protection, and tool, bottle and component cleaning. The sensors can be used wherever fluids are monitored and controlled in closed piping systems.
FlexFlow sensors incorporate features such as an IO-Link and depending on settings and connections, either two switching outputs or one switching and one analogue output (4 / 20mA, 0 / 10V). The range includes the PF20H and PF20S options which are suitable for hygienic and industrial applications.
The IO-Link enables users to simultaneously configure several sensors, which Baumer argues simplifies and saves time when point adjustment is needed for different process stages during set-up, or for batch changeover. FlexFlow sensors are designed to enable diagnostic data polling and process evaluation at all times, helping to maximise system uptime and improve efficiency.
