Ultrasonic Flowmeter Research Articles

Development of PMUT based ultrasonic gas flowmeter with conical transducer cavities for the validation of industrial standards

The recessed installation of transducers in ultrasonic gas flowmeters (USFMs) creates cylindrical transducer cavities that induce local flow distortions and vortex formations, resulting in significant measurement uncertainty. Currently, USFMs with small diameters predominantly rely on conventional bulk-PZT ultrasonic transducers, which are relatively large and hinder the optimization of vortices. Miniaturized piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducers (PMUTs) present an effective solution for mitigating vortex effects; however, their acoustic performance is constrained by the sensor area, resulting in PMUT-based USFMs that fail to meet industrial measurement requirements. This article introduces a small-diameter USFM utilizing a single PMUT element integrated with the specially designed conical transducer cavity. This design effectively reduces the half-power beamwidth (HPBW) of the single PMUT element to one-fifth of its original size and increases the transmit signal amplitude by 7.2 dB. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations demonstrate that the conical transducer cavity optimizes vortex distribution within the cavity, reducing vortex intensity. The experimental result demonstrates that the proposed USFM achieves an indicated error of less than ±1 % and repeatability of less than 0.5 %, which meets the class 1.5 accuracy level. This design fully complies with the accuracy standards set in GB/T 39841–2021, validating the PMUT-based USFM for industrial flow measurement.

Wearable Applicability of Respiratory Airflow Transducers: Current Approaches and Future Directions.

Advanced technologies employed in modern respiratory airflow transducers have exhibited powerful capabilities in accurately measuring respiratory flow under controlled and sedentary conditions, particularly in clinical settings. However, the wearable applicability of these transducers as face-mounted electronics for use in occupational and sporting activities remains unexplored. The present review addresses the critical wearability issue associated with current respiratory airflow transducers, including pneumotachographs, orifice flowmeters, turbine flowmeters, hot wire anemometers, ultrasound flowmeters, and piezoelectric airflow transducers. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis and comparison of all factors that impact the wearable applicability of respiratory airflow transducers are conducted, considering dynamic accuracy, long-term usability, power consumption, calibration frequency, and cleaning requirements. The findings indicate that the piezoelectric airflow transducer stands out as a more viable option for wearables compared to other devices. We expect that this review will serve as a valuable engineering reference, guiding future research efforts in designing and developing wearable respiratory airflow transducers for ambulatory respiratory flow monitoring.

Influence of input parameters on the measurement accuracy of external clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeters: An experimental study

Abstract This study comprehensively evaluated the performance of clamp-on ultrasonic gas flowmeters at a natural gas field. The research focused on the influence of key input parameters on flow measurement accuracy during practical application of the instrument and proposed specific measures to improve measurement results. It was found that errors in outer diameter and wall thickness not only lead to flow calculation inaccuracies but also directly impact the propagation path of ultrasonic waves. Therefore, accurate input parameters are crucial to ensure precise flow results. Additionally, the study revealed that changes in installation distance have minimal effects on flow measurement results and adjustments can be made as needed to obtain better signal parameters. Variations in input temperature and pressure mainly affect the conversion coefficient from operating conditions to standard conditions, with minor impacts on flow velocity and operating flow rate. Thus, the velocity ratio method can be considered during on-site calibration to mitigate the effects of temperature and pressure changes.

Analysis and numerical simulation of different flowmeters based on an open channel in an irrigation area

ABSTRACT This study establishes an ultrasonic open channel flow measurement test and numerical simulation model and systematically compares the performance and reliability of the ultrasonic method and the traditional flowmeter in flow measurement in the irrigation area by observing and analysing the test data and combining it with the numerical simulation. In the indoor ultrasonic flowmeter flow measurement experiments in the trapezoidal nullah section, the flow rate measurement was carried out by using a high-precision variable slope flume and a variety of flow measurement tools. A numerical study was carried out using the VOF method to calculate the flow in the open channel flume under two-phase flow conditions. Combining experimental measurements and numerical simulations, this study aims to quantify the magnitude of flow measurement errors and water surface fluctuations in open channel flumes and to address the discrepancies between different flow measurement methods in open channels in irrigation areas.

Enhancing commercial check valves in downhole pump applications through laboratory testing system development

In this study, we aim to enhance the performance and longevity of downhole pumps employed in crude oil extraction in the oil industry. Downhole pumps play a pivotal role in the rod-pump system, comprising traveling and standing valves that function similarly to ball check valves. However, these valves often experience premature wear and tear. To address this concern, we embarked on experiments involving various check valve alternatives to conventional ball valves within downhole pumps. The testing conditions were controlled precisely. Furthermore, we evaluated four distinct check valve types, the original (representing the incumbent ball valves), spring-poppet (C), spring-ball (CB), and spring-poppet with soft-seated (S6C) check valves, within a controlled laboratory environment. We employed a TEXAPON N70 solution to replicate the properties and temperature conditions of crude oil. A portable ultrasonic flow meter was used to quantify the pump flow rate and assess its volumetric efficiency. In addition, we recorded data on the polished-rod load and plunger displacement to generate dynamometer cards, thereby enabling a comprehensive evaluation of the operational performance of the pump. Furthermore, we conducted a vacuum test to scrutinize valve leakage, which is a crucial indicator of the operational lifespan of a downhole pump. Our findings show that incorporating the CB check valve with the RHB pump in oil wells operated by the PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited (PTTEP) could result in a 15 % increase in volumetric efficiency and a remarkable 160 % improvement in durability compared to the original ball check valve.

Experimental Characterization of Process Pressure Variations on The Accuracy and Performance of Liquid Ultrasonic Flow Meters

This paper investigated the influence of process pressure variations on the accuracy and performance of ultrasonic flow meters. Process measurement technology provides a tool for optimizing production processes and dosing operations. Accurate measurement is key and primary to profitability in the business of supply and purchase of liquids like petroleum, gas and chemical products. Three 6” size ultrasonic flow meters were mounted on a skid and used to carry out the experiment parallel in connections each other to take flows from a common header, measure and discharge their individual flows into a common discharge header. The three meters were designate 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Meters 1 and 2 being service meters while Meter 3 is the calibrated master meter. The experiment was carried ten times to increase reliability of results. Experimental data were collected and analyzed using computational formulae technique. Results showed that; Meter 1 had an optimum process pressure of 12.38 and 9.43 bar with respect to flow rate and meter factor respectively as performance indicator. While Meter 2 had an optimum process pressure of 12.4 and 12.41 bar with respect to flow rate and meter factor respectively as performance indicator. Findings indicated significant relationship between process pressure, flow rate and meter factor using ultrasonic flow meter. The outcome of this study will be a useful guide to users of ultrasonic flow meters to maintain optimum process pressures of each meter during fluid supply.

Influence of torque flow, pressure on the performance of a fire pump at the gas complex level

In recent years, motor pumps have played an increasingly important role in transferring fluids by increasing pressure, such as in power plants, hydrocarbon complexes and oil companies. Although these companies have advantages, their lack of maintenance can negatively impact their production, resulting in wasted costs and time, as well as putting human lives at risk. Restoration and modernization with improper maintenance or wrong policies can lead to critical and dangerous situations for equipment, the environment and people. And in this sense, we will be interested in the problem of protection against a fire in a gas installation; with the aim of carrying out a performance test of the electric pump which aims to evaluate the performance of the pump of the firefighting network of the gas complex. To achieve our objective according to the NFPA 20 Standard we have the following approach: Verification of measuring instruments. Installation of an ultrasonic flow meter. Application of the performance test on the fire pump. Controls flow according to pressure. Projection of the results obtained on the manufacturer's performance curve. The comparison between the manufacturer's performance curve and the performance curve obtained. Analysis of the results obtained. Finally, to monitor pump performance, we recommend the immediate installation of a permanent flow meter at the pump discharge level and avoid any type of risk.

Study on the influence of typical turbulent flow field on the metering performance of cross four channel ultrasonic flowmeter

Abstract In this paper, influence of typical turbulent flow field on a multi-channel ultrasonic flowmeter was studied. Experimental sample of the cross four-channel ultrasonic flowmeter were designed and processed, and CFD simulation models of flowmeter and right-handed spoiler, gate valve and velocity profile spoiler were established. Through simulation, the turbulent flow field behind typical spoilers such as right-handed spoiler, gate valve and velocity profile spoiler, and the influence of turbulent flow field on the metering performance of the cross four-channel ultrasonic flowmeter were studied. On this basis, the CFD simulation results and the real flow experiment results were compared and analyzed, and the reliability of the CFD simulation analysis results was verified, which provides the research basis for improving flowmeter performance.

Application of free forearm flap in reconstruction of postoperative defect of external nasal malignant tumor

Objective:To investigate the therapeutic effect of free forearm flaps in repairing the postoperative defect of external nasal malignant tumor. Methods:Six patients with nasal malignant tumor were treated with radical operation of external nasal malignant tumor and simultaneous reconstruction of external nasal defects with free forearm flap. Preoperative Allen experiment, ultrasonic Doppler blood flow meter or CT angiography confirmed that the forearm blood vessels were in good condition. Results:The free forearm flaps were obtained from six patients, and completely survived. During the follow-up period of 6-12months, all patients had good external nasal morphology, good nasal function, no nasal obstruction and anterior nostril stenosis, no obvious complications in donor hand and no local cancer recurrence. Conclusion:The free forearm flap is a reliable method to reconstruction the postoperative defect of external nasal malignant tumor, with a high success rate and good recovery of morphology and function recovery.

Traceability and measurement uncertainty of non-removable field flowmeters using clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeters as reference

This study examines the traceability and measurement uncertainty of in situ hydraulic calibration of flowmeters using clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeters as reference. The procedure compares the equipment readings with the reference ones. Measurement uncertainty evaluation uses Guide to the expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM) formulation, considering the linearity conditions of the mathematical models applied. Experimental values are used to test the procedure and its suitability for actual cases where the expected accuracy needs to be achieved.

Signal processing method of ultrasonic gas flowmeter based on transit-time mathematical characteristics

To address the issue of timing errors caused by attenuation and jitter in the echo signal with the conventional threshold method, this paper presents a signal processing method for ultrasonic gas flow meters based on the mathematical characteristics of transit time. First, an improved weighted recursive filtering algorithm based on the mathematical characteristics of transit time is proposed. Then,based on the aforementioned filtering algorithm, a feedback-type threshold adjustment method has been proposed. Finally, the results for the flow meter meeting the performance criteria for a Class 1 accuracy ultrasonic gas flow meter at range of 2∼300 m3/h. This signal processing technique can be implemented at comparatively low cost on existing conventional fixed-threshold flow measurement infrastructures, with the potential to significantly improve accuracy and reliability.

An adaptive weighted integration method for multipath ultrasonic flowmeter

Abstract The error introduced by the integration method is an important factor affecting the measurement accuracy of the multipath ultrasonic flowmeter. An adaptive weighted integration method (adaptive weighted integration method for velocity profile of circular section) is proposed to reduce the integration error, taking a DN400 double-side eight-path ultrasonic flowmeter as an example. This method is based on the velocity distribution information in the full flow range and the integration weights are determined by the principle of minimum error. The applicability of this method is verified by numerical simulation and actual fluid flow experiments. The results show that the integration error of the proposed method is superior to the Gauss–Jacobi and optimized weighted integration method for circular section integration methods, and the maximum integration error is reduced from 0.0877% and −0.0355% to 0.0220% in the flow range of 125–2500 t h−1.

On the use of perforated disk inserts in a round pipe to form a gas flow of the required structure in front of an ultrasonic flow meter

Unlike conventional gas meters, ultrasonic flow meters have such advantages as contactless operation, minimal pressure loss and high accuracy. When developing ultrasonic flow meters, like any other devices, assumptions and simplifications related to the theory of ultrasonic flow meters are used. When developing such devices, researchers do not always have the necessary space to deploy such structures. Therefore, the question arises of developing devices that can replace large sections of pipelines with various turns in the role of local resistances. The paper presents some studies conducted during the development of a perforated disk capable of forming a flow profile similar to the profile after a double bend. The presented results of a study of the influence of the perforated disk geometry on the gas dynamics and flow structure. The calculations were carried out using three-dimensional computer modeling. The analysis of the influence of the hole location, their sizes and the angles of inclination of the holes relative to the disk axis on the velocity distribution and the formation of the velocity profile downstream of the disk is the purpose of this study. Scalar and vector fields of velocities downstream of the perforated disk are obtained. Velocity profiles in sections behind the disk are constructed. A comparative analysis of different designs of perforated disks is carried out. The design principles of such flow formers are indicated. The geometric factors influencing the flow structure after the former are revealed. The revealed subtleties and described design principles made it possible to develop straighteners and flow formers based on perforated disks. The final samples of disks and the results of their operation are shown

Modeling of Water Age in Distribution Systems- Case Study

Ensuring water quality in water distribution systems (WDS) is crucial for public health. Water authorities aim to provide consumers with an adequate supply of high-quality water at optimal pressure. This study focuses on a segment of Erbil City's WDS to analyze hydraulic parameters and water quality, particularly water age, using observed and documented data. The primary objective is to determine the age of water as it travels within the distribution system. The research utilizes EPANET 2.2 for a comprehensive case study, with digital loggers monitoring pressure and ultrasonic flow meters measuring discharges. The findings are expected to help develop new water projects and improve existing infrastructure, contributing to responsible water management and public well-being. Access to clean drinking water significantly impacts society, the economy, health, and the environment.

On the use of a confuser to improve the accuracy of an ultrasonic flow meter

On the use of a confuser to improve the accuracy of an ultrasonic flow meter

Spectral characterization of intraoperative renal perfusion using hyperspectral imaging and artificial intelligence

Accurate intraoperative assessment of organ perfusion is a pivotal determinant in preserving organ function e.g. during kidney surgery including partial nephrectomy or kidney transplantation. Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) has great potential to objectively describe and quantify this perfusion as opposed to conventional surrogate techniques such as ultrasound flowmeter, indocyanine green or the subjective eye of the surgeon. An established live porcine model under general anesthesia received median laparotomy and renal mobilization. Different scenarios that were measured using HSI were (1) complete, (2) gradual and (3) partial malperfusion. The differences in spectral reflectance as well as HSI oxygenation (StO2) between different perfusion states were compelling and as high as 56.9% with 70.3% (± 11.0%) for “physiological” vs. 13.4% (± 3.1%) for “venous congestion”. A machine learning (ML) algorithm was able to distinguish between these perfusion states with a balanced prediction accuracy of 97.8%. Data from this porcine study including 1300 recordings across 57 individuals was compared to a human dataset of 104 recordings across 17 individuals suggesting clinical transferability. Therefore, HSI is a highly promising tool for intraoperative microvascular evaluation of perfusion states with great advantages over existing surrogate techniques. Clinical trials are required to prove patient benefit.

Physics Constrained High-Precision Data-Driven Modeling for Multi-Path Ultrasonic Flow Meter in Natural Gas Measurement.

Ultrasonic flow meters are crucial measuring instruments in natural gas transportation pipeline scenarios. The collected flow velocity data, along with the operational conditions data, are vital for the analysis of the metering performance of ultrasonic flow meters and analysis of the flow process. In practical applications, high requirements are placed on the modeling accuracy of ultrasonic flow meters. In response, this paper proposes an ultrasonic flow meter modeling method based on a combination of data learning and industrial physics knowledge. This paper builds ultrasonic flow meter flow velocity prediction models under different working conditions, combining pipeline flow field velocity distribution knowledge for data preprocessing and loss function design. By making full use of the characteristics of the physics and data learning, the prediction results are close to the real acoustic path flow velocity distribution; thus, the model has high accuracy and interpretability. Experiments are conducted to prove that the prediction error of the proposed method can be controlled within 1%, which can meet the needs of ultrasonic flow meter modeling and subsequent performance analysis in actual production.

THE ROLE OF SURROGATE MODELS AND MACHINE LEARNING IN MODERN ULTRASONIC FLOW MEASUREMENT

Recent developments in the field of machine learning have found their application in a wide range of design processes. They have particular use where numerical simulations are involved and fast, more accurate predictions and optimized models are very much needed. In order to speed up experiments on a device or system model, it is necessary to speed up its execution (simulation). Instead of detailed models, you can create a surrogate. Its main task is fast execution, small amount of occupied memory and preservation of the specified error threshold in relation to the detailed model. This article demonstrates the integration of machine learning into the flow measurement process using ultrasonic flowmeters. The main source of errors in the application of the modern ultrasonic principle of flow measurement arises from the difficulty of taking into account the actual velocity profile of the measuring flow. In practice, the distribution of velocities in the cross-section of the pipeline differs from the theoretical one introduced in the calculation algorithm. However, if the velocity profile is known, an appropriate correction can be estimated and taken into account during calibration. This will increase the accuracy of measurements. In this study, an intelligent compensation of errors caused by profile distortion was presented to improve the accuracy of using multipath meters in such ultrasonic conditions. The purpose of such an intelligent correction arises in the search for the optimal layout and the minimum sufficient number of chords in the measuring transducer for various installation conditions. The adoption of a new approach based on a surrogate model with a neural network made it possible to take an approximate flow profile that has a certain distortion. So, for the chosen topology of the acoustic flow sensing channels, programmatically, by changing the location angle of the measuring system, instead of the local resistance, add such a position of the chords for which it is possible to set maximum admissible measurement accuracy. This means using a neural network for the required input correction model, especially in an environment characterized by a change in the velocity profile under the influence of different flow distortions.

Development of wet-type ten-path ultrasonic flowmeters to validate their performance at two national metrology institutes

Development of wet-type ten-path ultrasonic flowmeters to validate their performance at two national metrology institutes

A deflected ray model of the transit time difference in ultrasonic flow meters applied to non-ideal flow profiles

Transit time difference (TTD) ultrasonic meters have widespread applications due to their high dynamic range, lack of moving parts and low maintenance requirements. In earlier work, the TTD is considered to arise due to the fluid flow changing the effective speed of sound along a fixed ray path, but recent publications have introduced a new way of viewing how the TTD arises. The flow velocity in the axial direction does not affect the speed of sound in the direction normal to the pipe wall. Therefore, in a clamp-on meter with the fluid at constant temperature and pressure, the transit time in the liquid must be constant with changing flow rate. The TTD then arises due to the ray path in the water being deflected, and the received wavefront travelling some extra distance along the pipe axis, which results in a different transit through the transducer wedge than for zero flow conditions. In a meter with wetted transducers, the mechanism causing the TTD is slightly different. The deflected ray travels a different distance in the fluid along the direction normal to the pipe walls due to the transducer surface being at an angle to the flow direction, and this is responsible for the TTD that is measured.Previous work has focused on calculating the magnitude of the ray deflection effect in clamp-on meters for ideal flow conditions, where the flow velocity does not depend on the position in the pipe. In this article, the ray deflection is calculated for a series of analytic profiles, and it is shown that the two models result in the same calculated TTD for both clamp-on meters and meters with wetted transducers at low flow speeds. The hydraulic correction factors calculated using the model which considers a change in the effective speed of sound are recovered using the ray deflection models. The resulting equations for beam deflection are the same as those for the conventional fixed ray path model, but the beam deflection model is more physically realistic and presents new opportunities for calibration methods utilising carefully controlled movement of the transducers. The conventional model typically has a correction factor which is allowed to vary in cases where the flows are expected to approach the speed of sound to account for the effect of ray deflection. However, the ray deflection model automatically takes this into account, so is expected to be useful in these circumstances.