We are often asked by customers if there is a difference between installing ultrasonic clamp-on flowmeters on vertical or horizontal pipes. In this short blog, we will discuss both cases. The flowmeter can certainly be installed in both cases, but it’s important to consider where air collects so you can avoid any issues.
Figure 1 This image shows a vertical pipe with a waterfall flowing from the top to bottom. This case should be avoided.
Vertical Pipes
Vertical pipes can be the best case or worst case for collecting air. The best case scenario is when then flow is going upwards, i.e. flowing from the bottom to the top of the pipe. In this case you are certain that the pipe is completely full of liquid so the ultrasound will transfer well.
However, when the flow is going in a downwards direction (see figure 1), it is possible that there is a waterfall inside the pipe, also know as the "waterfall effect". We see this more often than you might think - even in pressurized systems, which still contain pressurized air. So this installation should be avoided if there is any other option.
Figure 2 This images shows the flowmeter installed at the top, bottom and side of the pipe. Best case is the side to avoid air and sediment.
Horizontal Pipes
In horizontal pipes, air will collect at the top of the pipe, and sediment will collect at the bottom of the pipe. So, it is best to avoid installing the flowmeter where the ultrasound will travel through the top or bottom of the pipe. Instead, rotate the flowmeter off to the side of the pipe where the sound will travel through the pipe and fluid (see Figure 2).
Since we cannot see inside the pipe, we should choose to install the flowmeter where we can be most certain that the ultrasound can transmit through the fluid.
We hope that helps with any questions you might have. If you want to know more about SoundWater flowmeters or how to best install them, contact us today!
