Centrifugal Pump Electromagnetic Flow Sensor Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centrifugal pumps face challenges in accurately determining operating points due to the limitations of existing flow measurement methods, including high costs for pressure sensors, space requirements for separate flow sensors, clogging issues with mechanical displacement sensors, and limited accuracy with sensorless approaches.
Innovation Solution
A centrifugal pump unit with integrated electromagnetic flow sensors that measure flow rate in the suction and pressure connections, using a controller to correct signals based on pump speed, motor load, and tube diameter, and optionally including temperature sensors for thermal corrections, allowing for reliable and compact flow rate determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate volume flow sensors are used to determine operating point, then flow rate measurement is possible, but the device occupies more space and requires additional installation space outside the pump body
Solution Approach 1:
The flow sensor is integrated directly into the pump body, merging the flow measurement function with the pump structure. This eliminates the need for separate external flow sensors and reduces the overall device space required.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump body is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the pump housing and the mounting structure for the flow sensor. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and space.
2Measurement precision
If flow sensors are placed outside the pump body, then measurement is less affected by turbulence, but the sensor is farther from the impeller and requires more space
Solution Approach 1:
The flow sensor is positioned at a specific location within the pump body where the flow conditions are suitable for accurate measurement. This local optimization allows the sensor to be close to the impeller while still achieving reliable measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump body design includes pre-configured flow conditioning elements that prepare the flow before it reaches the sensor, allowing accurate measurement even at shorter distances from the impeller.
3Measurement precision
If pressure sensors are used to determine operating point, then flow rate can be determined, but the cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses inexpensive electromagnetic flow sensors instead of costly pressure sensors. These electromagnetic sensors provide the necessary measurement capability at a lower cost, making the solution economically viable.
4Measurement precision
If mechanical displacement sensors are used, then flow rate measurement is possible, but the sensors suffer from clogging and have limited lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical displacement sensors with electromagnetic flow sensors. This substitution eliminates the mechanical moving parts that are prone to clogging and wear, thereby improving reliability and extending sensor lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement principle is changed from mechanical displacement to electromagnetic induction. This parameter change allows for contactless measurement of conductive fluids, avoiding the clogging issues inherent in mechanical sensors.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a compact and accurate method for determining flow rates, reducing costs and space requirements while improving accuracy and reliability compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electromagnetic flow sensor arranged to measure flow in at least a part of the suction connection and/or pressure connection and/or pump chamber for determining a flow rate of a fluid through the centrifugal pump unit
Data Source
AI summary
A centrifugal pump unit (1) is disclosed having a body (4) that includes a suction connection (5), a pressure connection (6) and a pump chamber (7) connecting the suction and pressure connections. The centrifugal pump unit further includes an impeller (8) disposed in the pump chamber and at least one electromagnetic flow sensor (3) arranged to measure flow in at least a part of the suction connection and/or pressure connection and/or pump chamber for determining a flow rate of a fluid through the centrifugal pump unit or for determining a control signal equivalent of the flow rate for control purposes.