DC-F/IM measures viscous food-application fluids

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Aug 28, 2009

Flow Technology, a manufacturer of precision flow-measurement instruments, systems and calibrators, has introduced the DC-F/IM (ingredient measurement) positive displacement (PD) flowmeter system.

The DC-F/IM features a bearingless design with only two moving parts, making it ideal for measuring high-viscosity fluids in food applications where batch repeatability is desired.

Food manufacturers use various flowmeter designs to measure a range of thick and/or abrasive liquids, including chocolate, caramel, corn syrup, mayonnaise and frosting.

In many of these applications, however, higher viscosity requires that Coriolis meters be specified at a larger line size to minimise pressure drop, which inherently limits the low-end measureable flow rate compared with a smaller line size meter.

Employing Flow Technology's Decathlon Series DC-F PD flow meter, the DC-F/IM system helps improve quality control in food manufacturing.

The DC-F/IM is suitable for measuring flow rates as low as 0.001 gallons per minute (GPM) and is designed for applications involving high pressure and pulsating flow streams.

The PD meter can be utilised in the optimal line size, which minimises pressure drop and enables accurate measurement across the entire desired flow range.

The DC-F sanitary PD flowmeter employs 316 stainless steel construction, advanced thermoplastic impellers and a non-intrusive pickoff sensor.

The meter offers repeatability of +/-0.05 per cent of rate and up to 1,000:1 turndown.

It can measure viscosities up to 1,000,000cP+.

Unlike some flowmeter technologies, the DC-F/IM system is clean-in-place (CIP) compatible - ensuring a low cost-of-ownership.

The PD meter can also be quickly opened in-line for inspection and physical maintenance if needed.

It is available for 1/8in (3.175mm) to 2in lines sizes.