Bürkert’s innovative FLOWave, a multiparameter flowmeter solution, is designed to accurately detect media changes without the need for sensor elements in the measuring tube. Food & Beverage Industry News reports.
The goal of every food and beverage plant is to operate at maximum efficiency and minimise waste while maintaining product quality and consistency. However, this goal is challenged every time a media changeover or clean-in-place (CIP) cycle occurs. These transitions, if not managed effectively, can lead to product contamination, wastage, and costly downtime.
To achieve minimal waste and avoid contamination, timing is everything.
If the valve to the drain opens too late, product will be contaminated. If it opens too soon, product will be wasted.
For example, 100 litres of liquid per minute flow through a DN50 pipeline, and if the valve opens 15 seconds too early, then with five media changeovers per day, around 125 litres of product end up in the drain.
To minimise these risks, it is imperative that media changeovers are detected accurately.
In most cases conventional flowmeter solutions may measure flow accurately, but cannot by themselves determine changes in media, and additional sensors are needed in the media stream, raising hygiene and maintenance issues. Coriolis flowmeters offer more advantages, but are costly and bulky, and may be more sensitive to blockage from viscous fluids.
A flowmeter that can see media changes
Fortunately, an innovative solution in FLOWave, a multiparameter flowmeter solution from Bürkert, is revolutionising how manufacturers address this challenge, offering unprecedented precision and reliability.
Because FLOWave leverages advanced Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) technology, it dispenses with sensor elements in the measuring tube, which means no leaks, no material incompatibility, no maintenance, no pressure drops and easy cleaning.
Instead, it acoustically measures the volume flow independently of the conductivity of the medium with an accuracy of 0.4 per cent of the measured value, as well as the temperature with an accuracy of ≤ 1°C.
Its Density Factor function allows FLOWave to detect fluid changeovers very quickly, while the Acoustic Transmission Factor function detects bubbles, particles or solids in the liquid. This allows the user to intervene quickly as soon as defined process variables are exceeded or undercut.
All this means that FLOWave offers unparalleled accuracy and reliability in detecting changes in fluid composition in real time. This means that manufacturers can now transition between different media more quickly, without the risk of contamination and minimising product loss – leading to significant improvements in efficiency and cost savings.
FLOWave solutions are built on the Bürkert device platform EDIP, ensuring quick and efficient integration into existing fieldbus systems.
A Wi-Fi module provides remote access to measurement parameters via a web browser, facilitating monitoring and adjustments even in hard-to-reach installation points.
This system solution requires calibration and installation by an approved Bürkert service provider, ensuring precise setup and reliable performance. This collaborative approach promotes a successful partnership between the customer and Bürkert.
Special offer
At Bürkert, we understand the challenges that food and beverage manufacturers face in optimising their production processes.
Bürkert also announced a limited time offer for FLOWave, with prices starting from just $5,800.
This presents a unique opportunity for manufacturers to invest in cutting-edge technology that can revolutionise operations and drive business growth.
Whether you’re looking to improve efficiency, ensure product quality, or reduce operational costs, FLOWave offers a comprehensive solution that delivers tangible results.