Accurate fluid dosage in a compact standalone package

Citation

(2009), "Accurate fluid dosage in a compact standalone package", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 61 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/ilt.2009.01861dad.002

Accurate fluid dosage in a compact standalone package

Article Type: New products From: Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Volume 61, Issue 4

New from Bronkhorst UK is a highly compact, portable liquid mass flow dosing system, complete with Coriolis or thermal flowmeter, close-coupled gear pump, operation module and power supply, all integrated into a robust 19 in. housing with sturdy carry handle (Figure 2). Its standalone design and small footprint make this Bronkhorst dosing system ideal for pharmaceutical and medical applications, R&D laboratories and universities, or indeed system integrators. Extremely accurate fluid dosage is assured by the application of mass flow measuring techniques, regardless of whether the “recipe” is mass or volumetric based.

Figure 2 Bronkhorst’s portable liquid mass flow dosing system

With a choice of models incorporating flowmeters from Bronkhorst’s innovative product range, the system covers a wide range of flow control and pressure ranges, from very low flow rates measured in milligrams, up to liquid flows of 30 kg/h, making it suitable for many research and process applications. The gear pump is directly controlled by the onboard PID function of the flowmeter, ensuring fast real-time flow pattern changes and a “plug and play” start-up procedure.

Conventionally, dosage of mass flow is achieved by employing a separate pump linked to a precision balance, with the pump providing volumetric flow and the balance measuring the amount of mass. In contrast, the Bronkhorst compact liquid dosing system provides continuous, true mass flow dosage and makes the use of a balance superfluous, saving on time, material and ancillary equipment, especially with the synchronous addition of multiple additives.

The use of the Coriolis principle of operation means that there is no need to correct for variations in fluid temperature, pressure, viscosity or density to determine mass flow, while the throughput of fluid can be compensated for entrapped gas or density changes. There is also no need to pressurise the liquid source, a benefit for potentially hazardous materials, and this can additionally prevent gas bubbles forming. The system’s integrated pump is protected from running dry with an auto shut-off function. All of this adds up to a highly accurate, stable and efficient liquid dosing solution, which can be easily moved around the lab or process for maximum convenience.

The integrated display provides readings of measured values, either direct or percentage, setpoint and totalised flow, with optional batch control and alarm functions. The desired flow can be set either through the onboard controls, by analogue input or via digital communication using standard bus protocols. A pressure controller can be added to the system, to monitor or limit outlet pressure, and special versions are available for aggressive or corrosive fluids. Standard pipe connections are 1/8 in. and ¼ in. D compression type, with other types available on request.

For further enquiries visit the company web site: www.bronkhorst.co.uk