Flow Systems

FLOW CONTROLLER
Flow Computer: Model FC500-FC

By combining the advanced functionality of our model FC-500 Flow Computer and the flow capabilities our Multiple Sonic Nozzle Arrays, FLOW SYSTEMS has created an excellent Flow Controller, model FC500-FC, for the accurate measurement and control of gas flow.

Flow Computer - FC500-FC
Base Unit Dimensions:
5.25 in. H x 17 in. W x 13 in. D

FEATURES

» Self-Contained Package including Instrumentation.

» Easy Configuration using a Windows-based Interface.

» Ethernet or Analog Input for the Setpoint Variable enabling Closed Loop Control.

» Combines the Performance of a Control Valve and a Flowmeter in One Package.

» Stand-Alone Operation with Internal or Remote Data Logging Capabilities.

MODES OF OPERATION

» Mass Flow Control --MFC

» Upstream Volume Flow Control --VFC

» Downstream Pressure --PC

SOLUTION

FLOW SYSTEMS has designed and engineered a unique solution (hardware and software) that combines Instrumentation, Data Acquisition and Control, Computation, Monitoring and Data Logging (Remote or Local) to meet the needs of the high-end Flow Controller market.

The data acquisition, control subsystems and all instrumentation are standard, readily available Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) items. This ensures that servicing or replacement of any item can be achieved in a timely manner, providing high-availability for the test system.

The FC500-FC is one of the first commercially available flow computers that will accommodate using combinations of Sonic Nozzles configured in a Multiple Sonic Nozzle Array. This configuration requires that the user provide both compressed air and 24vdc power to actuate the solenoid valves, which are supplied by FLOW SYSTEMS.

This unique functionality allows the FC500-FC to act as a stand-alone Flow Controller. Users configure the setpoint (flow) range and the response characteristics and then the FC500-FC will adjust the flow to match the setpoint value. Optionally, Automated Pressure Regulation is available to increase resolution and minimize the effect of upstream pressure
fluctuations.

The FC500-FC can interface with up to 6 Sonic Nozzles, thus offering a 64:1 range in Flow.

Configuration / Monitoring Software:
The FC500 software was developed using National Instruments^TM LabVIEW^(TM) and uses an Ethernet connection to communicate with the FC500-FC. This package gives the user the following functionality:

Test Set-up Screen:

Configures the FC500-FC for meter type, fluid, and units.

Flowmeter Configuration:

Calculations for Sonic Nozzles are in accordance with ASME MFC-7M / ISO 9300.

Input Configuration:

Allows the user to set the upper and lower flow range that corresponds
to the 4 to 20 ma dc input or process variable signal.

Data Monitoring and Logging:

The Data Monitor gives users ample information in both a graphical and numeric format
to observe real time or historical data for both the setpoint and actual flow.

Data may be logged into the internal memory of the FC500-FC automatically at a user-defined interval, or manually
by depressing the "Log Data" button on the front panel. The FC500-FC can store 3Mb of internal data in the
base configuration. Optionally, an 11Mb data buffer is available.

Flow Totalizing / Batching: Allows the user to Start, Stop, Clear and Log Batch data.
Remote data logging requires an Ethernet connection to the FC500-FC.

Calibration Assistant for Maintenance of Internal Instrumentation:

Configuration of Outputs:

Two independent analog output (4 to 20ma dc) channels which may be configured for
remote monitoring of Flow or other variables such as pressure or temperature by
another device or data logger.

Two independent digital outputs (24vdc, <400 ma each) may be configured to indicate
specific conditions that can be sensed by another device.

Optional Internet Support and Diagnostics:

FLOW SYSTEMS can observe and/or control a system remotely for training, optimization or troubleshooting purposes. This service requires a temporary, high-speed data line.



Estimated Performance of FLOW SYSTEMS Flow Controller model FC500-FC 2x2(3-8)

		Assumptions: Gas Temp. = 70F, Barometric Pressure = 14.696psia

Maximum Back Pressure :			50	psia	( Maximum Back Pressure is due to the Choking Pressure
			35.304	psig	Ratio of the smallest Sonic Nozzle in the Array)

				Air	Air	Air	Air	Air	Air	Air
Sonic	Throat	Inlet	Inlet	Mass	Mass	Mass	Mass	Mass	Actual Volume Flow
Nozzle #	Diameter	Pressure	Temp.	Flow	Flow	Flow	Flow	Flow	Qdot	Qdot
	inches	psia	deg. F	lbm/sec	SCFM*	SLPM**	kg/hr	g/sec	ACFM	ALPM
8	0.088	100	70	0.01	11.28	296.41	23.00	6.39	3.31	93.80
7	0.063	100	70	0.01	5.64	148.11	11.49	3.19	1.66	46.87
6	0.044	100	70	0.00	2.81	73.92	5.74	1.59	0.83	23.39
5	0.031	100	70	0.00	1.40	36.89	2.86	0.80	0.41	11.67
4	0.022	100	70	0.00	0.70	18.41	1.43	0.40	0.21	5.82
3	0.016	100	70	0.00	0.35	9.18	0.71	0.20	0.10	2.90
Maximum	0.124	100	70	0.03	22.22	583.87	45.30	12.58	6.52	184.76
Minimum	0.016	100	70	0.00	0.35	9.18	0.71	0.20	0.10	2.90