Coriolis Flowmeter
Name Mohamed Mahmoud Mohamed Abdou Rezk
TO Eng - Moataz Sherif
1. Principle of Operation
The Coriolis flowmeter measures mass flow using the Coriolis effect, a physical phenomenon where an
inertial force acts on a moving mass in a rotating system.
• Key Steps in Operation:
1. A fluid flows through a vibrating tube (or set of tubes) inside the flowmeter.
2. The vibration of the tube generates Coriolis forces when the fluid moves.
3. These forces cause a phase shift in the vibration of the tube, which is proportional to the mass
flow rate.
4. Sensors detect this phase shift, and the flowmeter calculates the mass flow rate based on the
data.
• Additional Measurements:
o Fluid density is determined by analyzing the natural frequency of the vibrating tube.
o Temperature sensors measure the fluid temperature, allowing compensation for temperature
effects.
2. Key Features
• Direct Mass Flow Measurement: Measures mass flow
directly without requiring additional calculations.
• High Accuracy: Typically offers accuracy levels of
±0.1% or better.
• Multi-Parameter Measurement: Simultaneously
measures mass flow, density, and temperature.
• Non-Intrusive Design: Minimal pressure drop and no
moving parts reduce maintenance needs.
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3. Advantages
• Precision: Highly accurate for both liquids and gases.
• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of fluids, including high-viscosity and multiphase fluids.
• Reliability: No moving parts, minimizing wear and tear.
• Real-Time Data: Provides instant measurements of mass flow, density, and temperature.
• Ease of Installation: Requires no straight pipe runs, unlike many other flowmeters.
• 4. Disadvantages
• Cost: Higher initial investment compared to other flowmeter types.
• Sensitivity to Vibration: External vibrations can affect accuracy if not properly installed.
• Power Requirements: Requires electrical power for operation, limiting use in some remote
locations.
5. Applications
Coriolis flowmeters are widely used in industries requiring high accuracy and reliability:
• Oil and Gas: For custody transfer, process control, and allocation metering.
• Chemical Processing: To measure and control chemical reactions with precision.
• Food and Beverage: Ensuring consistency in recipes and filling operations.
• Pharmaceuticals: Monitoring and controlling precise fluid dosages.
• Water and Wastewater: Measuring flow rates of sludges and chemicals.
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6. Comparison with Other Flowmeters
Aspect Coriolis Flowmeter Ultrasonic Flowmeter Turbine Flowmeter
Measurement Mass flow, density,
Volumetric flow Volumetric flow
Type temperature
Moderate to high (±0.2% to Moderate (±0.5% to
Accuracy High (±0.1% or better)
0.5%) 1%)
Clean and dirty liquids, some
Fluid Types Liquids, gases, slurries Clean liquids
gases
Moderate (moving
Maintenance Low Low
parts)
Cost High Moderate to high Moderate
Pressure Drop Low Negligible Moderate
Conclusion
Coriolis flowmeters are highly effective for applications requiring accurate and reliable mass flow
measurements. Despite their higher cost, their precision, versatility, and low maintenance requirements make
them an invaluable tool in industries like oil and gas, chemical processing, and pharmaceuticals. Proper
installation and calibration ensure optimal performance, making them a preferred choice for critical
measurement tasks.
