CKD FLUEREX WFK2 Series

The Karman Vortex Flow Sensor FLUEREX WFK2 Series, from CKD Corporation, offers a diversified and user-friendly solution for flow measurement. This series has received the 2018 Good Design Award, highlighting its innovative design and ease of use.

Function Description

The WFK2 Series operates on the Karman vortex principle, detecting flow rates by measuring the frequency of vortices shed from a bluff body placed in the fluid path. This method provides reliable and accurate flow measurement. The sensor is designed to support a wide range of flow rates, from 0.4 to 250 L/min, making it compatible with various applications.

A key feature of all models in the WFK2 Series is the integrated fluid temperature measuring function. This eliminates the need for a separate temperature sensor, saving space and simplifying wiring. The internal placement of the temperature sensor ensures it is less affected by ambient temperatures, leading to more accurate readings.

The device offers various output functions, including analog output for instantaneous flow rate and temperature, pulse output for accumulated flow, and switch output (NPN/PNP can be switched) for instant flow rate, temperature, and accumulated flow. An external input is available for accumulated flow reset and peak hold reset. For advanced connectivity, the WFK2 Series supports IO-Link, a digital communication standard that enables the transmission of parameters and event data, facilitating constant monitoring, remote parameter control, and error notification.

Usage Features

Diversified and Easier to Use: The WFK2 Series is designed for versatility and ease of operation. It supports fluorine liquids with excellent electrical insulation, making it ideal for controlling coolants in semiconductor manufacturing equipment. It also supports fluids with low global warming potential.

Easy Flow Rate Adjustment (Option): For models with a manual valve, fine adjustment of flow rate is possible. The "needle" type allows for precise control, while the "cock" type enables easy opening and closing of the valve.

Easy-to-Read 2-Screen Color Liquid Crystal Display: The device features a clear 2-screen color LCD that can simultaneously display temperature, accumulated flow, and set values. The display color can be selected from white, green, or red for optimal visibility. The liquid crystal display can be rotated 90° at a time without physically moving the body, preventing interference when installing units in parallel.

Easy Setting Function: Frequently used settings can be accessed and adjusted directly from the normal screen using shortcut operations. For example, the output threshold can be changed while viewing the current flow rate value.

Supports Fluid Temperatures up to 95°C: The WFK2 Series is suitable for applications involving hot fluids, such as detecting return flow of cooling liquid in casting machines, high-temperature liquid for mold temperature controllers, and cooling liquid for laser oscillators.

ATEX Compliant: The device is compliant with the ATEX Directive, ensuring safe operation in potentially explosive atmospheres.

IO-Link Support: IO-Link enables digital communication for sensors/actuators, allowing for constant monitoring with digital data, remote parameter setting and changing via the network, and confirmation of models and serial numbers. It also facilitates parameter reconfiguration after maintenance and device failure notification. The device can be integrated into Ethernet networks for IoT readiness.

Maintenance Features

Safety Precautions: The manual emphasizes the importance of reading safety precautions before use, including proper handling, adherence to specifications, and awareness of potential hazards. It highlights the need to check wiring, ensure proper insulation, and avoid short-circuiting the output transistor.

Cleaning and Installation: Before installation, pipes should be cleaned to remove foreign matter. It is crucial to ensure no force is applied to resin parts during piping and that the self-weight of the piping is not borne by the flow rate sensor. Sealing tape or adhesive should not enter the pipes.

Antifreezing Measures: In environments where freezing may occur, antifreezing measures, such as draining pipes or keeping them warm, should be implemented.

Strainer Installation: If there is a risk of foreign matter entering the fluid, installing a filter (strainer) on the primary side is recommended to prevent measurement accuracy from being compromised by debris adhering to the vortex generator or detector.

Water Quality Standards: The device's performance may be compromised if the applicable fluid does not meet specified water quality standards, particularly regarding electrical conductivity, chloride ion, sulfate ion, and total hardness.

Manual Valve Handling: For models with manual valves, it is important to fix the adjustment with the push lock (cock type) or lock nut (needle type) after setting to prevent flow rate fluctuations. Manual valves should not be turned forcibly, and internal leakage may occur even when fully closed.

Troubleshooting: In case of operational problems, users are instructed to immediately turn off the power, stop use, and contact their dealer. The display may become warm (approx. 40°C), which is considered normal.

Periodic Inspections: Ensuring proper operation through periodic inspections is recommended. When removing equipment, power should be shut off, water pressure released, and other safety precautions taken. Disassembly or modification of the product is not advised.

Cleaning: When cleaning the product, a low-polluting cleaning agent such as a neutral detergent should be used. Air blow from the downstream direction at 0.3 MPa or less is recommended. The display should not be pressed to avoid damage.