Flow Measurement Research
Measurement of liquid and gas flows is critical for a wide range of industrial processes including power generation and chemical industries, where it allows for process optimisation, leading to more efficient use of resources. Ultrasonic metering techniques offer a wide range of advantages including a wide dynamic range, high measurement rate, and in some cases measurements can be obtained non-invasively. Nevertheless, there are challenges associated with measurement of disturbed flows, clamp-on measurement with challenging pipe materials or geometries, and sensitivity to fluid temperatures. More information on our active research in flow measurement can be found by clicking the links below.
Ultrasonic Anemometry
Our ultrasonic anemometer is low-cost, using entirely analogue electronics and readily available ultrasonic transducers, whilst being highly sensitive to slow flows.
Ray-Tracing Models of Ultrasonic Meters
Bespoke ray-based models of ultrasonic clamp-on flow meters highlight several key considerations that that apply to metering on polymer pipes.
Clamp-on Domestic Water Metering
A water meter that could be strapped to your existing water supply pipe, providing live information on water usage, and alerting you if a leak has occurred in your home.
Simply increasing the supply of fresh water will not be sufficient to mitigate future drought risk in the UK, so steps need to be taken to reduce demand. Smart metering provides consumers with the information they need to manage their usage, whilst allowing water distributors to provide benefits to consumers who use water conservatively.
Miniature Flow Transducers
Ultrasonic flow measurement is typically performed with relatively bulky wedge-shaped transducers made from engineering plastics such as PEEK. The wedge accounts for a large percentage of the cost of the transducer, both in material costs and the precise machining that is required to make consistent sensors. Our miniature flow measurement transducers are much smaller than conventional wedges, and can be injection moulded, decreasing material wastage and machining time.