What is Ultrasonic Flow Measuring?
Ultrasonic flow measurement determines the volumetric flow rate of a liquid or gas in a pipe or conduit. U-F-M uses clamp-on sensors to measure non-invasively from the outside, without breaking open the pipe. This results in less disruption, lower maintenance costs, and quick installation.
There are two main techniques: Transit-Time Difference and Doppler. The most suitable technique depends on the medium being measured, the type of pipe, and the accuracy requirements.
Which technology suits your application?
| Feature | Transit-Time Difference | Doppler |
|---|---|---|
| Medium type | Clear (water, oil, chemicals) | Liquid with solid particles or air bubbles (sludge, waste or process water) |
| Minimal contamination | < 30% solids or air bubbles | Requires reflective particles / air bubbles |
| Sensor configuration | Two sensors (bidirectional) | One or two sensors, depending on model |
| Accuracy | 0.5% – 1% (actual value) | ± 2% or higher, depending on medium |
| Pipe diameter | 3 mm to 6,500 mm | 30 mm to 4,000 mm |
| Typical applications | Drinking water, cooling water, hydraulic oil, chemicals | Waste water, slurries, monitoring overflow / dry run detection |
Which ultrasonic flow measurement solution suits your process?
When do you choose which technology?
- Transit-Time Difference is the best choice for clear media, high precision requirements, and variable pipe diameters.
- Doppler is the preferred technology for media containing particles or air bubbles, such as slurries, process water, wastewater, or hydraulic systems with microbubble formation.
Benefits for your organization
- Non-invasive installation: No pipeline downtime or production interruptions.
- Flexible deployment for maintenance and service workshops.
- Reduced risk of leaks or contamination when sensor placement outside the pipe.
- Low-maintenance and relatively easy to implement in existing systems.
Our Support
We help you make the right choice based on:
- Medium (liquid/gas type, degree of contamination)
- Pipe material and diameter
- Desired accuracy (measurement error tolerance)
- Installation context (internal/external line, service environment)