FL1 and FL2 Water Flow Sensors: µSmart Series

A water flow sensor using either a
propeller FL1,   
paddle wheel FL2, or
turbine, to monitor water flow in a variety of situations from streams to irrigation ditches. The sensor uses a magnet and reed switch combination to send a pulse signal to the electronics that is proportional to the water flow. This pulse is then converted to a flow measurement in the electronics.

The microprocessor can also derive other measurements such as volume from the flow reading and report that as the main parameter. The sensor also has the option to report temperature of the liquid as a second parameter.
The flow sensor is available with a variety of options such as sensor and electronics in a single package to installation of the sensor remote from the electronics.

Mounting distance of the sensor to the electronics is virtually unlimited. The sensor is also available with an on-board data logger and self contained batteries for long term unattended operation with the data logger being able to store 120,000 data points with a minimum logging period of 1 second.

The microprocessor can also provide a host of features such as control and alarm outputs, timer functions and dual output signals.
Each unit is provided with a 192-point calibration curve for maximum accuracy across the range.
With most systems, changing a sensor means lost time whilst the data logger or other data collection device is reprogrammed with the new parameters for the replacement sensor.

The µSmart series sensor eliminates this requirement as the on-board microprocessor ensures that all sensor types exhibit the same electronic specifications, and thus have identical performance characteristics. When used with the µSmart series Data Logger, the set-up procedure is even more simplified because of the Plug and Play feature.

Current consumption is typically 1-2 ma, and the sensor is powered from the data logger or an external 5-28 v supply. Sensors conform to global algorithm in all output modes. For operation in digital, voltage or current mode, sensors are supplied with individual calibration certificates to enable software conversion to engineering units. In serial mode, the sensor reports in engineering units and the global algorithm is implemented internally.

The sensor is offered in several variants.
For portable use, there is a hand held Display module with LCD display with or without Logger option
and the sensor mounted on an extendable handle.
For portable use readings can be either manually or automatically logged.
For fixed installation the sensor can be provided either with an integrated or remote electronics package and the data logger can be mounted internally or externally depending on customer requirements.

Quality Assurance: Monitor Sensors products are manufactured under a third party accredited ISO9002 System.

The drawing at Figure 1 shows a fully self contained flow sensor with logging option suitable for applications where unrestricted lateral movement is required.

Specifications:

Dimensions: Depending on configuration

Accuracy: +/- 0.1% FSD
Resolution: 0.0075 metres per second
Linearity: Better than 0.1% of Full Scale
Temperature Stability: Better than 50ppm/deg C

Ranges: Depending on sensor and customer requirements

Dual Output:
Serial data ASCII format.
Plus, either
    Voltage 0-1 volt, or
    Frequency +5 volt pulse, 2-10 Hz

Power Supply Voltage: 5 - 28 v DC
Power consumption: < 2 ma

Options:
  4-20 milliamp
  0-2.5 volts
  0-4 volts
  RS232

Associated Products: Data Logger
SI8 Interface module for RS232
LCD1, LCD Display module