16 AU-OPR-400Ser-EN,
Rev D
D. Use of Inline Flowsensors
SENSOR SELECTION
Flowsensor size is determined by the tubing with which it will be used. Inline Flowsensors are sized based
on the ID of the system tubing.
SENSOR CALIBRATION
Flowsensors are precalibrated for a particular liquid at a certain temperature (see Flowsensor’s calibration
certicate). Recalibration is necessary for accurate measurements at other temperatures or in other liquids.
If a more precise zero baseline than that specied is needed, the Module must be zeroed by stopping the
ow momentarily.
SITE SELECTION
The Flowsensor should be inserted into straight tubing segments about 10X the ID from side branches to
produce measurements within its accuracy specications. The best application site for the Flowsensor is a
point well below the highest elevation of the tubing (where gas bubbles might lodge).
SENSOR APPLICATION
Inline Flowsensors splice into exible tubing circuits. Larger Sensors (4-25PXN) with barbed ends insert into
the tubing. Tubing clamps may be used in high pressure applications to ensure a secure t. Small Sensors (1-
3PXN) with exible tubing ends may be spliced in using a rigid piece of tubing or expanded over the circuit
tubing (see RL-31-tn for PXN installation instructions).
Once the tubing & Sensor are lled with the liquid to be measured, Flowsensor operation and signal quality
can be conrmed 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 Sensor. 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
An Inline Tubing Sensor may be cleaned by wiping with a solution of soap and water (60°C, 140°F). The
inside of PXN Flowsensors may be cleaned with a soft brush. Care should be taken to avoid scratching the
inside surface of the tube. Standard cold (ethylene oxide) gas sterilization may be used (≤ 60°C, 140°F).
The tubing Flowsensor can be damaged by wet storage and should not be boiled, autoclaved, or sterilized
by cold liquid sterilization. NOTE: Do not use alcohol on small (1-3PXN) Flowsensors as it will damage the
exible tubing.
TS410 Module: Directions For Use