Typical Cases of Vibration Interference in Vortex Flow Meters and Solutions‌

Typical Cases of Vibration Interference in Vortex Flow Meters and Solutions‌

Case Analysis‌

False Flow Signal‌

A thermal power company reported that its vortex flow meter on a steam pipeline still displayed a false flow rate of 0.5 m³/h after the pipeline was closed. Investigation revealed that pipeline vibrations (e.g., from pumps or compressors) were misidentified as vortex signals by the sensor, particularly low-frequency vibrations.

Solution‌: Reinforce pipe supports or add vibration isolators, use shielded cables for signal wiring with proper grounding, and adjust the sensitivity potentiometer on the amplifier board.

Signal Fluctuation and Jumping‌

In an alkali solution pipeline at a paper mill, the vortex flow meter frequently showed erratic readings with deviations exceeding 20%. Vibrations and fluid turbulence noise (e.g., pump vibrations at 50/60 Hz) caused signal aliasing.

Solution‌: Implement adaptive filtering algorithms (e.g., real-time spectral analysis using DSP chips) or install a multi-hole plate flow straightener, which can reduce fluctuation rates from 15% to 2%.

Zero Drift‌

Under severe vibration, the vortex flow meter exhibited elevated zero readings, and level adjustments were ineffective. This occurred because the vibration frequency overlapped with the vortex signal band (5–500 Hz), making traditional filtering inadequate.

Solution‌: Replace the meter with a capacitive vortex flow meter , which features vibration compensation to eliminate the effects of vibrations below 1g acceleration.

Comprehensive Anti-Vibration Measures‌

Installation Optimization‌: Avoid vibration zones within 3 meters of pump outlets, ensure upstream straight pipe sections ≥10D, and install horizontally to minimize bubble interference.

Technical Upgrades‌: Select smart flow meters with digital signal processing (DSP) to synchronously collect vibration signals and intelligently separate noise.

Mechanical Vibration Reduction‌: Increase pipe supports, use U-bends or expansion joints to absorb shocks, and install pulsation dampers if necessary.

(Note: The above cases and solutions are based on actual industrial scenarios. Appropriate measures should be selected according to specific operating conditions.)

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