by Mat Dirjish
Sensor IC and sensor module creator ScioSense describes its UFM-02 as a complete, ready-to-use ultrasonic flow sensing module with integral sensor board and spool piece that provides a simple and quick way to integrate accurate ultrasonic flow measurement into a host system. The module’s average operating current is 50 µA, reportedly low enough to enable applications to run for years on a standard primary battery.
The UFM-02 is a fully calibrated flow measurement unit with standard pipe fittings, twin ultrasonic transducers, and a precision measurement circuit employing a ScioSense ultrasonic flow converter chip. It is available with a thread size of 0.5 in. and an inner diameter (ID) of 13.3 mm, or with a thread of 1 in. (23.7 mm ID). Additional variants are soon coming with a thread of 3/8 in. (11.2 mm ID) and 1.5 in. (36.3 mm ID). The smallest thread size handles a maximum flow rate of 20 liters per minute, and the largest, up to 450 liters per minute.
Additionally, the UFM-02 contains no turbines or other moving parts. Other features include a four-wire pulse interface cable providing an output signal with up to 450 pulses per liter and a 10-wire SPI cable that provides digital data including total volume of liquid flow in cubic meters, filtered flow rate in liters/hour, and a measurement of the liquid’s temperature. For deeper details, peruse the UFM-02 datasheet.
Mat Dirjish Online 