Vortex flow meter troubleshooting and maintenance tips

A number of operating conditions and common installation problems can affect flow measurement. This vortex flow meter troubleshooting and maintenance article identifies common problems that may affect measurement accuracy .It  addresses common problems for vortex flowmeters and provides solutions. It also reviews general maintenance tips and provides answers to some frequently-asked questions.

ifm offers vortex flow meters measuring water-based media. In order to provide a comprehensive troubleshooting guide, this article applies to a wider variety of available flow meters. You can also read about how vortex flow meters and ultrasonic meters differ. Or learn more about the formulas and equations behind vortex meters. 

Established in 1985, ifm efector is a leading name in sensor and control technology within the U.S. A subsidiary of the worldwide ifm electronic gmbh, we serve a diverse range of industries, including automotive and food and beverage, for over 23,000 American customers with over $260 million in annual sales. Globally, our production tops 800,000 sensors and connectors.

Vortex flow meter problems and how to address them

Problem: There is no display on the meter or display is not lit.

Solution: 

• Check your power supply, and the power supply meets the specified requirements. Upgrade the power supply if necessary. 
• Make sure that the wiring is intact, connected, and grounded properly. If the power is not installed correctly, rewire the meter and recheck the display. 

Problem: There is fluid flowing in the pipeline, but there is no output reading on the flow meter.

Solution: 

• Check all the wiring for the flowmeter is installed properly. Rewire any incorrect wiring. 
• Ensure that the flow rate is above the minimum required for the meter. 
• Check that the pipe is clear of debris and the sensor is not blocked. Clear any blockages, and ensure that the flow media is free of debris to prevent future blockages. Consider a flow meter with filters if future blockages are anticipated. 
• Ensure that the meter is installed in the right direction with the flow media traveling in the correct direction across the meter. If the meter is reversed, reinstall the meter in the opposite direction.

Problem: There is an output reading on the meter, but no measurable flow in the pipeline.

Solution: 

• Check the parameter settings of the meter. 
• Check for any vibrations in the system that could be registering with the sensor. Either limit the vibrations, or reconfigure the meter so that it accounts for this vibration. If inconsistent and frequent vibrations are innate to the system, a meter that is less sensitive to vibration may be required.
• Check that the meter is grounded and there are no high voltage external sources of electromagnetic interference that could be affecting the sensor. 

Problem: The reading of the flow range is fluctuating greatly without a large change in the fluid flow.

Solution: 

• Check for any vibrations in the system that could be registering with the sensor. Either limit the vibrations, or reconfigure the meter so that it accounts for this vibration. If inconsistent and frequent vibrations are innate to the system, a meter that is less sensitive to vibration may be required. 
• Check that the pipe length of straight pipe leading up to and from the meter meets the minimum requirements. If the length of the straight pipe section is lower than the minimum requirement, the system may need to be reconfigured or the meter may need to be installed at a different location to avoid these disturbances. 

Problem: You suspect that the process flow rate reading is inaccurate.

Solution: 

Make sure that the meter is not installed close to any junctions or fittings that could be causing additional vertices in the flow. If there are, the system may need to be reconfigured or the meter may need to be installed at a different location to avoid these disturbances.

Vortex flow meter maintenance guide

1. Flow meters should be inspected regularly for physical damage or wear. If any parts are damaged or worn, they should be replaced to ensure accurate readings. 
2. Maintain a regular cleaning schedule. If the manufacturer recommends doing so, the sensor and shedder bar can be removed and cleaned of debris or contamination (ifm does not recommend this for our vortex flow meters). A soft brush or compressed air should be used for cleaning. The cleaning schedule will depend on the characteristics of the media being measured, process conditions, operating temperature and pressure, and any industry requirements. Regular inspection should be used to determine if the cleaning frequency should be increased. 
3. Check for any software or firmware updates regularly. 
4. Perform regular calibration checks by introducing a known flow rate across the meter to ensure the meter is calibrated properly.

Vortex flow meter troubleshooting FAQs