Key Precautions to Ensure Accurate and Reliable Measurement
Vortex flowmeters are widely used for measuring gases, liquids, and steam in various industrial processes. Proper installation is crucial to ensure accuracy and long-term reliability. This guide summarizes essential installation precautions for vortex flowmeters.
⚠️ 1. Power Supply Precautions
Strictly avoid reversing the 24V DC power polarity.
Incorrect polarity can damage the internal circuit board.
🧹 2. Pipeline Preparation
Thoroughly purge the pipeline before installing the flowmeter to remove debris, welding slag, or foreign objects.
Do not weld flanges with the flowmeter installed.
Weld the flanges first, then clean the pipeline before installing the meter.
🔁 3. Installation Direction
Ensure the flow direction in the pipeline matches the flow direction arrow on the flowmeter body.
Reversing the installation may lead to incorrect readings or damage.
🌧️ 4. Outdoor Installation (Waterproofing)
If installed outdoors, apply waterproof sealant to the connection point between the signal cable and the meter body.
Prevent rainwater from flowing along the signal cable into the housing, which could damage internal electronics.
➕ 5. Straight Pipe Requirements
Sufficient straight pipe length upstream and downstream of the flowmeter is essential for accurate measurement.
Recommended Straight Lengths:
Upstream: ≥ 10D (D = pipe diameter)
Downstream: ≥ 5D
Avoid installing near elbows, valves, pumps, or other disturbances without straight pipe correction.
🧲 6. Electromagnetic Interference
Do not install the meter near strong magnetic fields or high electromagnetic interference sources such as:
Variable frequency drives (VFDs)
High-power motors
Separate power and signal cables to reduce interference.
🧱 7. Vibration Precautions
Avoid mounting on pipelines with excessive mechanical vibration.
If necessary:
Use vibration dampers
Install flexible connectors (e.g., soft hoses)
🌡️ 8. Steam Measurement Specifics
When measuring steam, slowly open and close valves to prevent pressure surges.
Water hammer or steam hammer can seriously damage the internal sensing elements of the meter.
✅ Summary Table
| Aspect | Recommendation / Warning |
|---|---|
| Power Connection | 24V DC only, correct polarity |
| Pipeline Preparation | Purge before installation, no welding with meter |
| Flow Direction | Match arrow on meter body |
| Waterproofing (Outdoor) | Use sealant on cable entry |
| Straight Pipe Requirement | ≥10D upstream, ≥5D downstream |
| EMI Protection | Keep away from VFDs, motors, use shielded cable |
| Vibration | Avoid or use dampers and soft joints |
| Steam Flow | Slow valve operation, avoid hammering |