Prosonic Clamp-On Ultrasonic Flowmeter 2-Channel Installation Overview
Prosonic clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter uses a non-invasive measurement method, and the pipeline does not need to be cut during installation. The 2-channel (2 traverse) installation arranges two sets of probes on both sides of the pipe to form two crossing sound paths, which can effectively offset errors caused by uneven flow velocity distribution.
Compared with single-channel installation, the 2-channel solution performs more stably under working conditions with insufficient straight pipe sections or turbulent flow. This article is Part 4 of the installation series, focusing on the complete process of 2-channel installation.
Pre-Installation Preparation and Pipe Condition Confirmation
Pipe and Medium Requirements
- The pipe material should be homogeneous and unlined metal or plastic pipe, avoiding materials with high acoustic attenuation such as cast iron and cement.
- The content of bubbles or solid particles in the medium should not be too high; otherwise, they will scatter the ultrasonic signal.
- The pipe surface should be free of severe rust, peeling paint, or unevenness.
Straight Pipe Section and Probe Spacing
The 2-channel installation has relatively loose requirements for straight pipe sections, but it is still recommended that the upstream be ≥10D and the downstream be ≥5D (D is the pipe outer diameter). The probe spacing needs to be automatically calculated by the transmitter based on pipe diameter, wall thickness, material, and medium sound velocity.
| Parameter | Requirement/Description |
|---|---|
| Pipe outer diameter | Must be measured, accurate to ±1 mm |
| Wall thickness | Must be measured, affects sound path calculation |
| Medium sound velocity | Set by the transmitter according to the medium type |
| Probe spacing | Based on the value calculated by the transmitter |
2-Channel Installation Steps
Step 1: Surface Preparation and Marking
- Remove rust, oil, and paint from the installation area to expose the metallic luster.
- Use a tape measure to mark the center positions of the two sets of probes along the axial direction of the pipe, ensuring that the two sound paths are symmetrical.
- When marking, ensure that the two sets of probes are on the same horizontal plane or arranged at the angle required by the transmitter.
Step 2: Install Probes and Coupling
- Apply special coupling agent evenly on the probe surface to avoid bubbles.
- Attach the probes tightly to the marked positions and fix them with mounting clamps or steel bands to ensure there is no looseness.
- The two sets of probes are installed on both sides of the pipe respectively to form a 2 traverse sound path.
Step 3: Wiring and Signal Commissioning
- Connect the probe cables according to the transmitter wiring diagram, paying attention to grounding the shielding layer.
- After power-on, enter the installation menu, input the pipe and medium parameters, and read the signal strength and signal-to-noise ratio.
- If the signal is weak, fine-tune the probe position or reapply the coupling agent until the signal is stable.
Installation Precautions and Common Problems
Key Precautions
- The probe spacing must be strictly implemented according to the value calculated by the transmitter; excessive deviation will cause measurement errors.
- The coupling agent needs to be checked regularly after installation, and it should be replenished in time after drying.
- Avoid installing probes near pipe welds, flanges, or valves.
Common Problem Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Low signal strength | Poor coupling or inadequate surface preparation | Re-grind and apply coupling agent |
| Large measurement fluctuation | Bubbles or unstable flow | Adjust installation position or increase straight pipe section |
| No signal | Incorrect wiring or parameter setting | Check wiring and verify pipe parameters |
Summary
The 2-channel installation of the Prosonic clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter can significantly improve measurement reliability under complex working conditions. Strictly following the steps of surface preparation, probe spacing, and signal commissioning is the key to ensuring flow measurement accuracy.
After installation is completed, it is recommended to perform zero-point calibration and actual flow comparison to ensure long-term stable operation of the system.