Density and viscosity monitoring systems using Coriolis flow meters

Abstract

Multivariable industrial transducers are becoming commonplace. The Coriolis effect-based flow meter measures mass flow, density and temperature, and thus provides volumetric flow information as well, with one single transducer. By using an additional simple device, the differential pressure transmitter, an additional process parameter, the fluid viscosity can be measured and used to monitor or control the process. The density signal makes it possible to perform measurements either in terms of absolute or kinematic viscosity units. The laws of physics limit the application of a tube viscometer to laminar flow of Newtonian fluids. Using various computing means and characterizations, a suitable physical layout and control, it is in addition possible to measure non-Newtonian fluids with the capillary viscometer. The paper discusses the use of direct mass flow meters which accomplish high precision density and viscosity measurements for a wide range of industrial processes.