A separated vortex flow meter works by using the Kármán vortex principle. When fluid passes a bluff body, periodic vortices are generated downstream. The sensor detects the vortex frequency, and the signal-processing unit calculates the flow rate. Unlike an integrated structure, the separated configuration allows the measuring section and display/electronics to be installed separately, which can be useful in high-temperature or space-limited industrial applications.
1. Periodic vortices are generated
When steam, compressed air, nitrogen or other media pass the bluff body, alternating vortices are generated downstream. As flow velocity changes, the vortex frequency changes accordingly.
Within the applicable operating range, vortex frequency has a corresponding relationship with fluid velocity. The instrument detects this change to obtain a flow-related signal.
2. The sensor detects the signal
The sensor detects periodic vortex changes and converts them into electrical signals. The signal-processing unit identifies and processes these signals to calculate instantaneous and totalized flow.
For steam and gases, if mass flow or standard-condition flow is required, pressure and temperature information may also need to be considered for calculation or compensation.
3. The separated structure adapts to field conditions
The main feature of the separated design is that the measuring section and display/electronics can be installed independently.
For example, on a high-temperature steam pipeline, the sensor is installed in the process line while the display can be positioned farther away in a more accessible location.
In one industrial compressed-air application, the measuring point was located in an equipment area while operators monitored parameters from another area. The sensor was installed on the compressed-air pipeline and the display unit was positioned for convenient observation.
The measurement principle remains based on vortex frequency. The separated configuration mainly addresses the coordination between the measuring point and the display/electronics location. Selection should consider the medium, flow range, pressure, temperature, pipe size and installation environment. USA VTON can be considered according to actual requirements.
