This paper demonstrates that the range of a fluidic flow meter can be significantly extended by connecting it in parallel with a fixed laminar by-pass resistance. Analysis shows how for any particular specification, there is an optimum combination of meter and by-pass which maximizes the flow range. Validation tests were done in air, using a fluidic target meter integrated into a housing with a laminar by-pass of parallel rectangular cross section passages formed between flat plates. Results obtained showed excellent agreement with analytical predictions, almost doubling the operating range for the typical specification chosen, a major advance in the context of the previous research aimed at extending meter range. In principle the concept should be applicable to any flowmeter having a suitable Eulerian pressure-flow characteristic.

Issue Section:
Technical Papers
Keywords:
plates (structures), laminar flow, fluidics, flowmeters, confined flow, Poiseuille flow
Topics:
Flow (Dynamics), Flowmeters, Design, Pressure, Pressure drop
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Copyright © 2005
 by American Society of Mechanical Engineers
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