Minimizing the Zero-Flow Error in Transit-Time Ultrasonic Flow Meters

Abstract

Transit-time ultrasonic flow meters are based on the fundamental idea that the flow is the only non-reciprocal effect between an upstream and downstream measurement. Non-identical transducers can be used in a reciprocal manner if the circuit is made reciprocal. In this paper we analyze the effect of driver- and readout electronics on the zero-flow error in transit-time ultrasonic flow meters by simulation and measurement. Using the frequency characteristic of two nonidentical transducers, the cause of the zero-flow error in nonreciprocal circuits is evaluated. Both simulation and measurement results show that the lowest zero-flow error can be obtained by using circuits that have an impedance significantly higher or lower than the impedance of the transducers.