Transonic TS420 - TS410 Clamp-on Flowsensor Application

AU-OPR-400Ser-EN,
Rev D
15
SITE SELECTION
The Flowsensor should be applied on straight tubing segments, about 10X the ID from side branches to
produce measurements within its accuracy specications. The best application site for the Flowsensor is
a point well below the highest elevation of the tubing (where gas bubbles might lodge). The Flowsensor
will deform the tube slightly. If the tubing site becomes permanently deformed at one clamping position,
choose another site to achieve better ultrasonic (acoustic) coupling.
TUBING PREPARATION
Apply a layer of petroleum jelly, or silicone grease over the tubing surface to enable ultrasonic transmission
between tube and Sensor. NOTE: Water-based ultrasonic gels should not be used for coupling Clamp-on
Tubing Sensors since they dry out and may build up on the transducer faces. This can cause additional
offset in the measurement and decrease signal quality.
SENSOR APPLICATION
To apply the Flowsensor to tubing, open the Flowsensor's hinged lid, insert lubricated tubing into the
sensing cavity, and close the lid. Fit should be tight, with the full tubing cross section contacting all inner
surfaces of the sensing window. Once the tubing is lled with the liquid to be measured, Flowsensor
operation and signal quality can be conrmed on the Module. Check that the signal quality bars are
illuminated. Low signal quality may indicate that an air or gas bubble is lodged in the tube. Since gas
bubbles block ultrasonic transmission, tilt the tubing and Flowsensor vertically before operating the
Module to ush any bubbles from the sensing window.
FLOW MEASUREMENTS
If using a data acquisition system, calibrate the system prior to beginning measuring. The digital display
presents the average volume ow value in mL/min or L/min. Choose the appropriate [Filter] setting for
average or pulsatile applications.
INVERT FLOW
The arrow on the Sensor points in the direction of positive ow. If the Sensor is installed backwards the
Invert function can change the polarity of the ow outputs without changing the Sensor position. Under
the [Menu], [Select] “Invert Flow” to change the display and outputs to the correct polarity.
LOW FLOW (1/4 SCALE)
Under the [Menu], [Select] “1/4 Flow Scale” to increase the ow gain by a factor of four and increased
sensitivity at low ow rates. The maximum value at the low ow scale is ve times the 1 volt scale value.
Before switching to “1/4 Flow Scale” check to ensure that peak pulsatile ows will not be cut off as this will
cause inaccurate readings. NOTE: When changing the ow scale be sure to recalibrate the data acquisition
system as the 1 volt scale value will change.
CLEANING & STERILIZATION
A Clamp-on Tubing Sensor may be cleaned by wiping with a solution of soap and water (60°C, 140°F).
Because no physical contact is required between the liquid under observation and the Flowsensor,
sterilization is not usually necessary. Standard cold (ethylene oxide) gas sterilization may be used (≤ 60°C,
140°F). The sterile-tubing Flowsensor can be damaged by saline immersion or wet storage and should not
be boiled, autoclaved, or sterilized by cold liquid sterilization.
TS410 Module: Directions For Use