How to maintain the gas mass flow meter?

Gas mass flow sensors play an important role in industry. Whether it is to monitor production processes, ensure safety or improve productivity. 

Gas mass flow sensors play an indispensable role. 

In practical applications, it is important to understand their maintenance and repair knowledge. 

In the following, this article will introduce the maintenance and care of gas mass flow sensors in detail.

Why gas mass flow sensors are important in industry？

1. Process Control

Gas mass flow sensors are critical for monitoring gas flow in industrial processes. Whether in the chemical, pharmaceutical, food processing or other industries, precise control of gas flow is required to ensure process stability and product consistency. Gas mass flow sensors monitor and provide real-time feedback on gas flow, helping to achieve precise process control.

2. Safety and Compliance

In many industrial applications, accurate monitoring of gas flow is critical to plant safety and compliance. For example, in the oil and gas industry, gas flow in pipelines needs to be monitored in real time. This is to ensure safety in the production process while meeting environmental and regulatory requirements. 

Gas mass flow sensors provide accurate flow data to help plant operators detect anomalies in a timely manner. Take appropriate safety measures to avoid potential accidents and risks.

Principle of Gas Mass Flow Sensor

1. Thermal flow sensors

Thermal flow sensors utilize the principle of thermal equilibrium to measure the flow rate of a gas. Inside the sensor, a resistor is heated to a certain temperature. The flow rate of the gas around the resistor is then measured. As the gas flows through the resistor, some of the heat is taken away, causing the resistor temperature to decrease. By measuring the change in temperature of the resistor, the gas flow rate can be determined.

2. Turbine type flow sensor

Turbine type flow sensors utilize a rotating turbine to measure the gas flow rate. Inside the sensor, a turbine rotates as the gas flows through it. As the gas flow rate increases, the speed of rotation of the turbine also increases. By measuring the rotational speed of the turbine, the gas flow rate can be determined.

3. Differential Pressure Flow Sensor

Pressure differential flow sensors utilize Bernoulli's theorem to measure the gas flow rate. Inside the sensor, a measuring segment feels the shock pressure of the gas as it flows by. As the gas flow rate increases, so does the shock pressure. By measuring the pressure difference between the two sides of the measuring segment, the gas flow rate can be determined.

General Inspection

1. Appearance check

Periodically check the gas mass flow sensor for proper appearance. This includes checking the sensor for cleanliness, dust accumulation, cracks, or damage. These cosmetic abnormalities may cause the sensor to read inaccurately or not function properly.

2. Pipe Connection Check

Check that the connection between the gas piping and the gas mass flow sensor is secure and well sealed. If the connection is found to be loose or leaking, it is necessary to tighten or replace the seals in time to avoid the influence of gas leakage on the measurement results.

3. Power supply and signal line check

Check whether the power supply line and signal line of the gas mass flow sensor are well connected, broken or loose. At the same time, you need to make sure that the interface of the power supply line and signal line is properly connected to ensure the normal power supply and signal transmission of the sensor. 

If you find that the power cord or signal cable is faulty, you need to replace or repair it in time to avoid the sensor not working properly.

Regular Maintenance

1. Cleaning the sensor

Clean the gas mass flow sensor periodically to remove accumulated dust, dirt, and other contaminants. Avoid using strong acid or alkali solutions during cleaning to avoid corrosion of the sensor. A soft cloth and mild detergent can be used to gently wipe the sensor surface to ensure that the sensor remains clean. This improves measurement accuracy.

2. Check sensor readings for accuracy

Periodically check gas mass flow sensor readings for accuracy. This can be done by comparing the sensor with other flow measurement devices or by calibrating it with a standard gas. Ensure that the sensor is measuring accurately. 

If the sensor reading is found to have a large deviation, it is necessary to adjust or replace the sensor in a timely manner. To ensure the reliability of the measurement results.

3. Check for corrosion or damage to the sensor

Periodically check the gas mass flow sensor for corrosion or damage. Pay special attention to the parts of the sensor in contact with the gas, such as the sensor surface, pipe connections. If corrosion or damage is found, it needs to be repaired or replaced in a timely manner to avoid any impact on the measurement results. 

In addition, pay attention to changes in the environment around the sensor, such as humidity and temperature. These factors may also have an impact on the service life of the sensor and measurement accuracy.