Ultrasonic Flow Meters

Name: ProFlow USA
Rating: 5 (15 reviews)

Ultrasonic Flow Meters provide accurate, non-intrusive flow measurement using high-frequency sound waves. With no moving parts, they offer low maintenance, excellent reliability, and minimal pressure drop — making them ideal for a wide range of liquids and gases.

How Ultrasonic Flow Meters Work

Ultrasonic flow meters measure fluid velocity by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic pulses through the flowing medium. They primarily use one of two methods:

Transit-Time Principle: Measures the time difference between ultrasonic pulses traveling with and against the flow direction. This is the most common and accurate method for clean and slightly dirty liquids.
Doppler Effect: Detects the frequency shift of reflected ultrasonic waves from particles or bubbles in the fluid. Best suited for aerated or dirty liquids.

Key Benefits

Benefit	Description
Non-Intrusive Design	Clamp-on transducers require no pipe cutting or process interruption, reducing installation time and leak risks.
No Moving Parts	Virtually maintenance-free with very low wear compared to mechanical flow meters.
Low Sensitivity to Process Conditions	Minimal impact from variations in temperature, pressure, or viscosity in most applications.
Low Operating Costs	Inexpensive to maintain and operate due to the absence of moving parts and minimal pressure drop.

Ultrasonic flow meters calculate volume flow by measuring the average velocity along the ultrasonic beam path. They are affected by the acoustic properties of the fluid and can be influenced by temperature, density, viscosity, and suspended particulates depending on the model and measurement principle used.

Ideal for applications where introducing moving parts is undesirable or where non-intrusive, low-maintenance flow measurement is required.

Non-Intrusive • Low Maintenance • Accurate Flow Measurement

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SKU: 43000 Categories: Flow, Flow Meters, Products Tags: clamp on flow meter, clamp on ultrasonic flow meter, doppler ultrasonic flow meter, industrial ultrasonic flow meter, inline ultrasonic flow meter, portable ultrasonic flow meter, transit time ultrasonic flow meter, ultrasonic flow meter, Ultrasonic flow meters, ultrasonic flowmeter Brand: ProFlowUSA

Description

Ultrasonic Flow Meters

Ultrasonic Flow Meters provide accurate, non-intrusive flow measurement for both liquids and gases using high-frequency sound waves — with no moving parts and minimal pressure drop.

Working Principle

Ultrasonic flow meters operate on the transit-time principle. Two ultrasonic transducers are positioned on opposite sides of the pipe. One transducer sends an ultrasonic pulse through the fluid, while the other receives it.

The flow velocity affects the travel time of the pulse: it moves faster when traveling with the flow and slower when traveling against it. By measuring the time difference between the upstream and downstream signals, the meter accurately calculates the fluid velocity and volumetric flow rate.

Key Features & Benefits

Feature	Benefit
Guaranteed Accuracy	Traceable factory calibration delivers reliable, high-accuracy performance.
Robust Industrial Design	Built to ASME and EN standards with short inlet run requirements.
Isolated Sensor Design	Sensors can be replaced without breaking the process seal, minimizing downtime.
Gasket-Free Meter Body	No moving parts and reduced leak points for increased plant availability.
Non-Clog Design	Eliminates downtime from plugged impulse lines.
Vibration Immunity	Mass-balanced sensor with Adaptive Digital Signal Processing ensures stable readings.
Easy Installation	Pre-configured, hydrostatically tested, and ready to install with short inlet runs (suitable for pipelines up to 8″).

Advantages

High accuracy with bidirectional flow measurement
Non-intrusive — no pressure drop or flow interference
Measures both liquids and gases
No moving parts — low maintenance and long service life
Excellent for clean to slightly dirty fluids

Limitations

Ultrasonic flow meters perform best with clean or low-viscosity fluids. They may be less suitable for applications with high concentrations of solids, bubbles, or very high-viscosity liquids. Accuracy can be affected by significant changes in fluid temperature, pressure, or composition, and periodic calibration is recommended.

Typical Applications

Ultrasonic flow meters are widely used in water & wastewater treatment, oil & gas, HVAC systems, building automation, factory automation, solar, semiconductor, and many other process industries.

If an Ultrasonic Flow Meter does not meet your specific application requirements, we also offer Coriolis (Mass), Vortex, Turbine, and Electromagnetic flow meters.

Non-Intrusive • Accurate • Versatile Flow Measurement

Additional information

Size	1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 1", 1-1/2", 2", 3", 4"
Connection Ends	Flanged (RF150), Wafer, Triclamp (Sanitary)
Voltage	24VDC, 120/208 VAC
Classification	General Duty, Intrinsically Safe, Explosion Proof

Specifications

High-performance specifications designed for reliable and accurate flow measurement in demanding industrial applications.

Parameter	Specification
Measurement Accuracy	Better than 1%
Repeatability	Better than 0.2%
Measurement Period	500 ms (2 times per second, 128 sets of data collected per cycle)
Power Supply	220VAC / 8~36VDC (customizable), integrated version: 24VDC
Maximum Flow Velocity	64 m/s (flow velocity resolution: 0.001 m/s)
Display	2 × 10 characters backlit LCD – displays instantaneous flow, positive/negative/net cumulative flow, velocity, and more
Communication Protocol	M-Bus protocol, Fuji extended protocol, and compatible with similar domestic manufacturers
Data Memory	Automatically memorizes positive/negative/net cumulative flow for the previous 512 days
Power Failure Memory	Automatically records time and flow for the previous 30 power-on/off events with automatic or manual flow supplementation via Modbus
Protection Level	Sensor: IP68, Converter: IP65
Explosion-Proof Grade	Ex d II BT4

These robust technical specifications make our Ultrasonic Flow Meters ideal for reliable, long-term operation in industrial environments.

High Accuracy • Reliable Performance • Industrial Grade

Accuracy %

Ultrasonic Flow Meters typically deliver high accuracy of ±0.5% to ±1%, making them one of the most reliable non-intrusive options for liquid and gas flow measurement.

Flow Meter Type

Accuracy (± % of reading)

Ultrasonic Flow Meter

±0.5% – 1%

Electromagnetic (MEFM)

±0.5%

Turbine Meter

±1.0%

Vortex Meter

±1.5%

Positive Displacement

±0.5%

Lower percentage = Higher accuracy. Ultrasonic meters excel in non-intrusive applications with excellent repeatability.

Need higher accuracy or a custom solution for your specific process?
Our team can recommend the best Ultrasonic or Electromagnetic flow meter for your application.

High Accuracy • Non-Intrusive • Reliable Performance

Installation

Proper installation and regular maintenance are essential for achieving accurate, long-term performance from your ProFlowUSA Ultrasonic Flow Meter.

1. Preparation

Read the Manual: Thoroughly review the manufacturer’s installation guidelines and user manual specific to your model.
Gather Tools and Materials: Prepare a wrench, pipe sealant, mounting brackets/clamps, and all necessary components.
Check Site Conditions: Verify pipe size, material, flow conditions, and environmental factors meet the meter’s specifications.

2. Pipe Preparation

Clean the pipe surface thoroughly where transducers will be mounted — remove debris, rust, paint, or coatings.
Inspect the pipe for dents, corrosion, or damage that could affect measurement accuracy.
Confirm the pipe size, material, and wall thickness are compatible with the flow meter specifications.

3. Mounting the Transducers

Position the transducers according to the manual (typically one upstream and one downstream).
Install mounting brackets or clamps at the correct angle and spacing.
For clamp-on models, securely attach the transducers so they face each other across the pipe.
Apply pipe sealant where required to ensure a leak-free installation.

4. Electrical Connections

Connect the power supply according to the specified voltage (220VAC or 8~36VDC / 24VDC integrated).
Wire the signal cables from the transducers to the main unit following the provided wiring diagram.
Properly ground the system to prevent electrical interference and ensure safety.

5. Calibration and Setup

Power on the meter and check for error messages.
Enter pipe diameter, fluid type, and other parameters as instructed.
Perform initial calibration and verify readings using a known flow rate or manufacturer tools.

6. Testing & Finalization

Step	Action
Flow Test	Run fluid through the system and monitor readings for consistency and accuracy.
Leak Inspection	Check all connections and mounts for leaks or loose fittings.
Adjustments	Fine-tune settings based on test results.
Documentation	Record transducer positions, calibration settings, and test observations.

7. Routine Maintenance

Regularly inspect transducers and cables for wear, damage, or signal drift.
Clean transducers according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Perform periodic recalibration as recommended to maintain accuracy.
Check mounting security and electrical connections during routine plant maintenance.

Following these steps will ensure accurate, reliable operation of your Ultrasonic Flow Meter for years to come.
Always refer to the specific manual for your model for detailed instructions.

Proper Installation • Accurate Measurement • Long-Term Reliability

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures long-term accuracy, reliability, and maximum service life of your ProFlowUSA Ultrasonic Flow Meter.

1. Routine Inspections

Inspection Area	What to Check
Visual Check	Inspect the flow meter, transducers, and pipe for physical damage, corrosion, wear, or leaks. Verify that mounting brackets and clamps are secure and properly aligned.
Connection Review	Check all electrical and signal connections for security, corrosion, or damage. Confirm grounding connections are intact and effective.

2. Cleaning

Transducer Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth and mild cleaning solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh solvents that could damage the transducer surface.
Pipe Surface Cleaning: Clean the pipe where transducers are mounted to maintain proper acoustic coupling. Ensure the surface is completely dry before reattaching transducers.

3. Calibration Checks

Perform calibration at intervals recommended by the manufacturer or based on your process requirements.
Use calibration tools or known reference standards to verify accuracy.
Follow the user manual to adjust parameters such as pipe diameter, fluid type, and other settings.

4. Software & Firmware Updates

Periodically check with the manufacturer for available software or firmware updates.
Install updates following the provided instructions (may require connection to a computer or network).

5. System Testing

Conduct periodic flow rate tests and compare readings with known reference values.
Test the system under various flow conditions to verify consistent and accurate performance across the operating range.

6. Troubleshooting

Refer to the user manual for error codes and warning messages.
Use built-in diagnostic tools to identify issues such as signal interference, poor coupling, or connection problems.
Recalibrate or inspect connections as needed.

7. Record Keeping

Record Type	Details to Document
Maintenance Logs	Date, procedures performed, inspection findings, cleaning, and any issues encountered.
Service History	Calibration results, software/firmware updates, repairs, and performance trends.

8. Professional Service

Contact ProFlowUSA technical support for complex issues that cannot be resolved through routine maintenance.
For major repairs or specialized calibration, engage qualified technicians recommended by the manufacturer.

Consistent maintenance will keep your Ultrasonic Flow Meter delivering accurate and reliable performance for years to come.
Always

Q&A

Clear answers to the most common questions about ProFlowUSA Ultrasonic Flow Meters.

Question	Answer
What is an ultrasonic flow meter?	An ultrasonic flow meter is a device that measures the flow rate of liquids using ultrasonic technology. It transmits and receives ultrasonic waves through the fluid to determine flow velocity and volumetric flow rate.
How does an ultrasonic flow meter work?	It operates on the transit-time principle. Ultrasonic pulses are sent both upstream and downstream through the flowing liquid. By measuring the time difference between these pulses, the meter calculates the flow velocity and flow rate.
What are the advantages of using an ultrasonic flow meter?	Ultrasonic flow meters provide non-intrusive, highly accurate measurements without cutting into pipes or interrupting flow. They have no moving parts, cause minimal pressure drop, and work well across a wide range of liquids.
What are the different types of ultrasonic flow meters?	The two main types are transit-time and Doppler ultrasonic flow meters. Transit-time meters measure the difference in travel time of ultrasonic signals, while Doppler meters detect frequency shifts from particles or bubbles in the liquid.
In what industries are ultrasonic flow meters commonly used?	They are widely used in water and wastewater management, oil & gas, chemical processing, power generation, HVAC systems, and many other industries requiring accurate, reliable flow measurement.
What factors should be considered when selecting an ultrasonic flow meter?	Important factors include pipe size and material, liquid type and cleanliness, flow rate range, temperature and pressure conditions, required accuracy, and compatibility with existing control systems.
How accurate are ultrasonic flow meters?	Ultrasonic flow meters typically offer accuracy in the range of 0.5% to 1% of the measured value. Actual performance depends on proper installation, flow profile, fluid conditions, and regular calibration.
What maintenance is required for ultrasonic flow meters?	They are generally low-maintenance. Recommended tasks include periodic calibration checks, verification of ultrasonic signal strength, cleaning of transducers, and inspection for pipe build-up or obstructions.

Still have questions about our Ultrasonic Flow Meters?
Contact our technical support team for personalized assistance.

Accurate • Non-Intrusive • Reliable Flow Measurement

Advantages and Disadvantages

Understanding the strengths and limitations of Ultrasonic Flow Meters helps you choose the right solution for your application.

Key Advantages

Advantage	Description
Non-Intrusive Installation	Clamp-on design requires no pipe cutting or process shutdown, reducing installation time and eliminating potential leak points.
Versatile Application	Suitable for a wide range of liquids (clean, dirty, aerated, or corrosive) and compatible with various pipe sizes and materials.
High Accuracy & Repeatability	Delivers excellent accuracy, typically within 0.5% to 1% of the measured value, with strong repeatability.
Low Maintenance	No moving parts means minimal wear, reduced downtime, and lower long-term operational costs.

Limitations & Disadvantages

Limitation	Description
Higher Initial Cost	Generally more expensive upfront compared to some traditional flow meter technologies.
Installation Expertise Required	Proper transducer placement and setup require skilled installation to achieve optimal accuracy.
Sensitivity to External Noise	Vibrations or external noise near the pipe can interfere with ultrasonic signals and affect measurement accuracy.
Flow Profile Sensitivity	Requires a fully developed flow profile for best accuracy, which may need sufficient straight pipe runs upstream and downstream.

Ultrasonic Flow Meters offer excellent non-intrusive performance for many applications, but careful consideration of their limitations ensures the best fit for your process needs.

Non-Intrusive • Accurate • Informed Selection

Applications

Thanks to their non-intrusive design, high accuracy, and ability to handle a wide range of fluids, ProFlowUSA Ultrasonic Flow Meters are trusted across many industries.

Industry / Application	Typical Uses & Benefits
Water & Wastewater Management	Monitoring municipal water supply for accurate billing and resource management. Measuring wastewater flow in treatment plants for process control and regulatory compliance.
Chemical & Petrochemical	Accurate measurement of chemicals, hydrocarbons, and aggressive fluids in harsh industrial environments.
Food & Beverage	Monitoring flow of milk, beer, juices, and other liquids in processing lines for quality control and consistency.
HVAC Systems	Measuring chilled water, hot water, and other fluids to optimize energy efficiency and system performance.
Oil & Gas	Non-intrusive flow measurement in pipelines, ensuring system integrity without direct fluid contact.
Environmental Monitoring	Measuring river, stream, and open channel flow for environmental monitoring and flood prediction.
Marine & Shipping	Ballast water flow measurement on ships for stability and environmental regulatory compliance.
District Heating & Energy Management	Measuring hot water flow in district heating systems for efficient energy distribution and management.
Medical & Research	Non-invasive blood flow measurement in medical research and diagnostic applications.

From municipal water systems to oil & gas pipelines and medical research, Ultrasonic Flow Meters deliver accurate, non-intrusive flow measurement across diverse industries.

Versatile • Non-Intrusive • Industry-Proven

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Ultrasonic Flow Meters

How Ultrasonic Flow Meters Work

Key Benefits

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Description

Ultrasonic Flow Meters

Working Principle

Key Features & Benefits

Advantages

Limitations

Typical Applications

Additional information

Specifications

Accuracy %

Installation

1. Preparation

2. Pipe Preparation

3. Mounting the Transducers

4. Electrical Connections

5. Calibration and Setup

6. Testing & Finalization

7. Routine Maintenance

Maintenance

1. Routine Inspections

2. Cleaning

3. Calibration Checks

4. Software & Firmware Updates

5. System Testing

6. Troubleshooting

7. Record Keeping

8. Professional Service

Q&A

Advantages and Disadvantages

Key Advantages

Limitations & Disadvantages

Applications

Downloads

Drawings

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