Product Summary
The FC500 is an airflow test measurement instrument for measuring flow and can also be used to control flow rate. This flow computer:
combines data acquisition hardware, pressure and temperature instrumentation, and controller software to measure, log, and control flowrate
measures flowrates using sonic nozzles including (multiple sonic nozzle arrays) and subsonic Venturis arrays
operates as a stand-alone devices or connects to a PC for remote logging and monitoring
Key Features
High mass flow accuracy (ranges from ±6.54% to ±0.14%)
2 analog and 2 configurable digital outputs
Stand-alone operation with internal or remote data logging capabilities
How does this flow controller work?
The embedded software in the FC500 takes the measurements received from its on-board instrumentation and performs the necessary calculations to compute a flow rate. In mass flow controller mode it is also capable of controlling flow rate to a setpoint sent via analog signal or digital control. The software also contains all of the calibration and configuration information needed to perform its required test. The controller software on a customer-provided PC is used to setup a given test and input the calibration coefficients for a given set of hardware. This data can then be transferred to the FC500 hardware. The software can also be used as a data monitor to view current conditions and flow rate.
In addition, this configuration requires that the customer 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.
Flow Computer & Flow Controller Comparison
For information on related flow computers and flow controllers, refer to the Flow Computer and Flow Controller Product Comparison.
System Specifications
The Flow Computer FC500 is available with the configuration options listed below.
Model Code | Meter Type Supported |
---|---|
FC500-CFV | Sonic Nozzle |
FC500-VEN | Venturi |
FC500-MSNM | Multiple Sonic Nozzle Manifold |
Additional Specifications
Specification | Value(s) |
---|---|
Analog Outputs | Two independent analog output (4 to 20ma dc) channels which may be configured for remote monitoring of flow rate or other variables such as pressure or temperature by another device or data logger |
Digital Outputs | Two independent digital outputs (24vdc, <400 ma each) may be configured to indicate specific conditions that can be sensed by another device |
Analog Inputs | 16-bit data acquisition system |
Number of Sonic Nozzles | Up to 15 Sonic Nozzles, offering a 32768:1 range in throat area |
Data Storage | 3MB internal; 11MB additional available |
Dimensions | 5.25″ H x 17″ W x 13″ D |
Accuracy Using Sonic Nozzles
Configuration | Mass Flow Accuracy | Comments |
---|---|---|
Level 2 | ±0.54% of Reading | Assumes: ±0.5% CEESI calibration, 6:1 pressure range (±0.02% full scale) & 40° to 100°F gas temperature. |
Level 3 | ±0.29% of Reading | Assumes: ±0.25% CEESI calibration, 6:1 pressure range (±0.02% full scale) & 40° to 100°F gas temperature. |
Level 4 | ±0.17% of Reading | Assumes: ±0.1% CEESI calibration, 6:1 pressure range (±0.01% full scale) & 40° to 100°F gas temperature. |
Optional Humidity sensor for moist air applications. |
Accuracy Using Subsonic Venturis
Configuration | Mass Flow Accuracy | Comments |
---|---|---|
Level 1 | ±1.41% of Reading | Assumes: Uncalibrated Venturi, 6:1 pressure range (±0.1% full scale), 10:1 Dp range (±0.3% of reading) & 40° to 100°F gas temperature. |
Level 2 | ±0.61% of Reading | Assumes: ±0.5% CEESI calibration, 6:1 pressure range (±0.04% full scale), 10:1 Dp range (±0.3% of reading) & 40° to 100°F gas temperature. |
Level 3 | ±0.43% of Reading | Assumes: ±0.25% CEESI calibration, 6:1 pressure range (±0.02% full scale), 10:1 Dp range (±0.3% of reading) & 40° to 100°F gas temperature. |
Software


The FC500 can operate as a stand-alone flow device for flow measurement and control; it does not need to be connected to a computer to operate. However, the controller software which is installed on a customer-supplied computer is required for initial configuration and remote data logging. Controller software is written using National Instruments LabVIEW™.
Configure Software for Testing & Meter Calibrations
Configure a test by specifying: meter type, fluid state, fluid type, number of meters, units, time base, standard pressure and temperature, and measurement stability criteria
Configure a meter calibration by specifying a variety of input parameters in order to calculate discharge coefficient (Cd) as a function of throat Reynolds Number
Monitor & Log Measured Flowrates
Configure output logging parameters for the digital and analog channels
Data can be either logged to the FC500’s internal memory or to the connected PC
Data may be logged automatically or at a user-defined interval
Data can be plotted (all parameters simultaneously) in real-time
When connected, the CFV pattern can also be controlled in real-time
Iterative solution for Discharge Coefficient (Cd) based on actual calibration data or theoretical models
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
Customize Controller Software and Integrate Data
Controller software can be customized to fit a wide variety of customer needs
Data can be integrated with customer’s local databases and/or information systems
Configure Instrument Calibration Settings
Enter calibration coefficients for each instrument connected to the FC500-FC (i.e. pressure transducers, RTD’s, and dew point transmitters)
Coefficients can be generated then saved to file, which can then be associated with instruments
Flowrate Calculations Meet ASME Standards
Calculations for sonic nozzles are in accordance with ASME MFC-7M / ISO 9300
Computations for subsonic Venturis meet the requirements of ASME MFC-3M / ISO 5167
Additional Software Screenshots
Instrument Calibration
Test Setup
Output Configuration
Meter Calibration
Data Monitor
Facility Requirements
The facility requirements below are to be supplied by the customer at the installation site.
Electrical Power: | 100 – 240 VAC/ 50 – 60Hz / 1 Phase / 6 AMPS | |
Analog Outputs: | (2) 4 – 20 ma dc | |
Digital Outputs: | (2) 24 vdc (400 ma each, max.) | |
Multiple Sonic Nozzle Array: | 0.25 A per Solenoid Valve (Sonic Nozzle). 1.5 A per 6 Nozzle Plenum. |
Compressed Air Requirements
Flow: | 5 SCFM | |
Inlet Air Connection: | 3/8″ OD Nylon Tubing, Push-In type compression fitting | |
Pressure Range: | 70 – 100 psig | |
Temperature Range: | 70° – 90° F | |
Particulates: | Less than 10 microns | |
Moisture Content: | 39°F Dewpoint, Maximum | |
Oil Content: | Less than 10 ppm |
Flow Rate: Equal to the lesser of the maximum capacity of the flow bench or the requirement of the largest part for a 100% duty cycle. An air receiver will allow for maximum flow at less than 100% duty cycle.
Photos & Schematics
Additional Software Screenshots
The following are pictures and schematics of the Flow Controller FC500-FC. Keep in mind that the FC500-FC combines an FC500 with a multiple sonic nozzle array, so the pictures below all reference the Flow Computer FC500
FC500 Physical Connections Diagram
View / Download FC500 Physical Connections Diagram as PDF
Flow Computer FC500: Front View
FC500 Front View with Connections Identified
High Flow Test Stand with Optional FC500 Flow Computer Attached
Options
The following is a list of options available for the FC500:
Flow controller
11Mb internal data storage
System check standard
Humidity sensor (atmospheric air)
Dewpoint sensor (compressed air)