Overview of Promass 83 Empty Pipe Detection Function
Promass 83 is a Coriolis mass flowmeter launched by Endress+Hauser, widely used for flow measurement in industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and food. Its built-in Empty Pipe Detection (EPD) function can promptly output an alarm when the medium in the pipe is emptied, avoiding false flow readings caused by an empty pipe.
Correctly enabling and configuring empty pipe detection is one of the key steps to ensure the long-term stable operation of the Promass 83. The following sections describe the specific operating procedure and key points for parameter adjustment.

Steps to Enable Empty Pipe Detection
The empty pipe detection of the Promass 83 can be configured via the local display or commissioning software (such as FieldCare, DeviceCare). The following uses the local operation menu as an example.
Enter the EPD Setup Menu
- Press the E key to enter the main menu, and use the +/- keys to select Setup.
- Enter Advanced Setup and select Empty Pipe Detection.
- Switch the EPD function from Off to On.
Set Sensitivity and Response Time
- Sensitivity: The smaller the value, the more sensitive it is. It is recommended to adjust according to the conductivity of the medium, generally starting from the default value.
- Response Time: Determines the delay in outputting the alarm after an empty pipe is detected, usually set to 1~5 seconds.
- Alarm Output: Current output alarm or relay output can be selected, and it must match the control system.

Parameter Setting Reference and Comparison
Under different working conditions, the parameter settings for empty pipe detection vary. The table below lists recommended values for common media for commissioning reference.
| Medium Type | Recommended Sensitivity | Response Time | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water and aqueous solutions | Medium (default) | 2 s | High conductivity, stable detection |
| Organic solvents | High | 3 s | Low conductivity, sensitivity needs to be increased |
| High-viscosity liquids | Low | 5 s | Avoid false alarms caused by wall adhesion |
| Media containing bubbles | Low | 5 s | Prevent bubbles from triggering empty pipe alarms |
Common Issues and Precautions
- False alarms: If the medium contains bubbles or the conductivity changes greatly, the sensitivity can be appropriately reduced or the response time extended.
- No alarm: Check whether EPD is enabled and whether the sensor cable is connected reliably.
- Verification after commissioning: It is recommended to empty the pipe for a simulation test to confirm that the alarm output is normal.
Properly configuring Promass 83 empty pipe detection can effectively improve the reliability of flow measurement and reduce the risk of process fluctuations and equipment damage caused by an empty pipe.