Enhancing Process Efficiency: Introducing Siemens' Sitrans FS230 Ultrasonic Flowmeter

In the process industries, change is a constant challenge, requiring companies to continually adapt to remain profitable and competitive. To thrive businesses must invest in high-performance instrumentation solutions that optimize process efficiency and minimize operational costs. Siemens, drawing on decades of experience in ultrasonic flow measurement, has developed a cutting-edge solution tailored to diverse liquid applications: the SITRANS FS230. This digital clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter represents a breakthrough in accuracy, noise immunity, and reliability, thanks to advanced digital signal processing technology. Recognizing the critical need for real-time flow data, Siemens engineered the FS230 to address challenges posed by outdated metering systems. With its innovative design, the FS230 empowers users to monitor usage effectively, mitigating the risk of unexpected surcharges.

The SITRANS FS230 digital clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter is a process-optimizing solution for measuring flow in virtually any liquid application. Designed to provide both exceptional performance and outstanding cost savings, the FS230 is an ideal fit for many industries requiring high-quality liquid flow measurement – including water and wastewater, HVAC and power, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical, mining and pulp and paper.

The SITRANS FS230 flow system consists of a SITRANS FST030 transmitter paired with SITRANS FSS200 clamp-on ultrasonic sensors, which are available in three different size models: WideBeam® (High-Precision), Universal and High-Temperature.

Siemens has WideBeam® transit-time sensor technology to improve signal detection. It increases measurement accuracy by using the resonant frequency of the pipe to transmit ultrasonic waves through the flowing liquid, with the pipe wall acting as a waveguide. WideBeam® produces a particularly strong, focused signal that optimizes the signal-to-noise ratio, reduces sensitivity to changes in temperature, density or viscosity and resists the effects of beam blowing.

Siemens is a pioneer in the use of Lamb wave sensors for flow measurement. The WideBeam® transit-time technology increases accuracy by reducing sensitivity to any changes in the fluid.

Technological enhancements:

• Interchangeable Modules / Common Platform
• Micro SD card for storage of data and certificates
• USB communication port
• Menu Wizard-based programming
• Multifunctional – Configurable I/O’s & Displays
• 100 Hz data update rate
• Backwards compatible with FUS1010 sensors
• Corrosion resistant design

One of the world’s first digital ultrasonic flow systems, the FS230 features among others:

• Market-leading accuracy and repeatability – accuracy of 0.5 to 1% of flow rate and repeatability of 0.25% according to ISO 11631
• Best-in-class 100 Hz data update rate – detects even the smallest, most rapid fluctuations in flow
• Digital Sensor Link (DSL) – digitizes the signal at the earliest stage of measurement for a strong signal-to-noise ratio and high-precision measurement
• Simplified installation – multiple setup wizards guide you through every step of commissioning
• Easy-to-use Human Machine Interface (HMI) – fully graphical display with simple menu navigation and the option to display up to 6 customizable parameters at once

One of the world’s first digital ultrasonic flow systems, the FS230 features among others:

• High turndown ratio to ensure consistent measurement across a wide range of flow rates
• Dual-path configuration option for increased accuracy, particularly in less-than-ideal piping geometry
• Bidirectional flow capability without the need for multiple meters or user intervention
• No pressure drop, which reduces energy usage and minimizes drag on pumping systems
   

Further Advantages:

• Cost Savings: By employing Siemens clamp-on ultrasonic flow meters, you can bypass the expenses and time required for excavating and installing below-grade vaults for magmeters. This eliminates the need for cutting water pipes, conducting disinfection processes, obtaining permits, and undergoing costly testing.
• Time Savings: Implementing Siemens clamp-on flow meters can save you between 3 to 6 months compared to constructing new vaults for magmeters. This accelerates your project timeline significantly, which is particularly critical due to time constraints associated with water tower usage.
• Enhanced Process Reliability: With the meters now installed, you gain precise control over water consumption at each location, ensuring adherence to contractual agreements. Furthermore, you can effectively manage water flow in your storage tank to meet peak demands and optimize usage during periods of low demand.

Applications:

In real-world scenarios, the SITRANS FS230 finds practical applications across various industries. Whether in manufacturing plants, water treatment facilities, or energy production sites, this innovative flowmeter delivers tangible benefits. By accurately measuring liquid flow rates, the FS230 helps companies optimize production processes, ensuring efficiency and reducing wastage. Its reliability makes it indispensable for monitoring water distribution networks, detecting leaks, and managing resource usage effectively. Additionally, in energy generation facilities, the FS230 aids in the precise measurement of fluid flows, contributing to optimal performance and cost savings. With its versatility and precision, the FS230 proves invaluable in numerous real-life settings, enhancing operational efficiency and promoting sustainability.

SITRANS FS230 standard functions are suitable for a wide variety of liquid applications, including the following:

• Water industry: Raw water – Potable water – Chemicals
• Wastewater industry: Raw sewage – Effluent – Sludges – Mixed liquor – Chemicals
• HVAC industry: Condensers – Hot and cold water systems
• Power industry: Nuclear – Fossil – Hydroelectric
• Processing industry: Process control – Batching – Rate indication – Volumetric and mass measurement
• Other: Food & Beverage – Pharmaceutical – Chemical – Mining – Pulp & Paper

SITRANS FS230 hydrocarbon functions are ideal for applications carrying crude oil, refined petroleum or liquefied gas.

Siemens Process Instrumentation offers best-in-class measurement and seamless integration into your automation system. At E.B. Horsman & Son, we have a specialty division for process & instrumentation products and can provide timely quotation, sales support, product training, and on-site technical support.