Flow measurement partialy filled pipe

I would agree, Siemens' LUT430 is a champion open channel flow meter. It is 2nd to none.

But I do not agree that the Magmeters are capable of an restricted partially full pipe measurement.

Page 21 of the 5000/6000 converter manual explicitly states, "The sensor must always be completely full with liquid." No ands, ifs or buts.

There is a graphic installationon the same page of that manual that shows a horizontal, partially filled pipe which traverses downwards to a low point where the pipe becomes full and where the flow meter is installed. The pipe then traverses upwards and then levels off which is where the pipe then becomes partially filled. The low point that fills with liquid is a 'trap'. (unfortunately, the forum does not handle graphic images).

The caveat is that flow in partially full pipes can be measured if the piping is configured to form a low point trap that will result in a meter tube that fills completely with liquid .

If someone considers this, be aware that the flow velocity through a pipe of same diameter as the partially full pipe will drop dramatically. Given that magmeters are velocity meters, a reduced flow rate in a pipe section of low trap line might run off the flat part of the accuracy curve.

I don't know if a Siemens mag will generate a flow signal through a partially filled pipe. It might. But of what value is such an inaccurate reading? All that can be deduced is whether there's flow or not. Flow switches are cheaper than mags for that.

Hi,

I am looking for a flow meter which can measure partially filled pipe, Service is Steam condensate. Line Size is 6"

Any suggestions?