GE
Sensing
DigitalFlow
™
DF868
Panametrics Liquid
Ultrasonic Flowmeter
DigitalFlow DF868 is a Panametrics
product. Panametrics has joined
other GE high-technology sensing
businesses under a new name
_
GE Industrial, Sensing.
Applications
The DF868 liquid flowmeter is a complete ultrasonic flow
metering system for measurement of:
• Refined hydrocarbons
• Petroleum products
• Crude oil
• Lubricating oils
• Diesel and fuel oils
• Solvents
• Water and wastewater
• Hot/chilled water
• Water/glycol solutions
• Chemicals
• Other liquids
Features
• Economical, nonintrusive flow measurement
• Hazardous (classified) location certification
• Simple setup and installation
• Suitable for a wide range of pipe sizes and
materials
• Two-channel/two-path version available
• Energy measurement option
• Large backlit LCD display
• Velocity, volumetric and energy flow rates
• Totalized flow and trend data
g
GE
Sensing
Panametrics Ultrasonic
Liquid Flowmeter
The DigitalFlow DF868 is a full-featured, fixed-installation
liquid flowmeter designed to meet all your flow metering
and energy measurement needs. Its patented
Correlation Transit-Time™ digital signal processing
provides drift-free measurements in ultraclean and most
"dirty" liquids. This includes fluids with gas bubbles and
entrained solids that have previously required
Doppler-type meters.
Dual-LCD Display, Datalogger and a
Wide Variety of I/O Options
Whether single-channel or dual-channel, all DF868
meters feature two independent, user-programmable,
graphic LCDs, giving you simultaneous access to more
data. There is complete flexibility to display any
parameter on either LCD in a variety of numerical and
graphic formats. Examples include numerical display of
real time flow measurements, real time flow graphs and
diagnostic waveforms, and numerical/graphic display of
data from the meter's built-in 43,000 point datalogger.
Up to 12 isolated 4 to 20 mA outputs, up to six
hermetically sealed or standard alarm relays, and up to
12 frequency/totalizer outputs can be added.
Built-In Energy
Measurement Capability
Another feature that makes the DigitalFlow DF868 meter
such a powerful and versatile flowmeter, is the energy
measurement software included in every meter. The
DigitalFlow DF868, with optional RTDs and input boards,
extends the benefits of ultrasonic flow measurement to
energy measurement. Benefits include measurement of
flow and temperature without pipe penetration, and
compatibility with pipes from 1 to 200 in
(25.4 mm to 5 m) in diameter. The DigitalFlow DF868
meter measures energy flow in water and water/glycol
heating and cooling systems with temperatures from
-4°F to 410°F (-20°C to 210°C). Consult GE for use with
other liquid systems.
To ensure compatibility with existing or preferred
temperature instrumentation, the DigitalFlow DF868
meter is available with three analog input boards. The
transmitter input board provides 24 VDC loop power and
two isolated 4 to 20 mA inputs for transmitters. For
applications requiring raw RTDs, the RTD input board
provides two isolated, three-wire RTD inputs for
temperatures from -148°F to 662°F (-100°C to 350°C).
Measure Flow from Outside the Pipe
Using clamp-on flow transducers, the DigitalFlow DF868
measures flow rate through metal, plastic or even
concrete-lined pipes without penetrating the pipe wall.
To hold clamp-on transducers in place, a variety of
clamping fixtures are available to accommodate
different pipe sizes, transducer types and attachment
methods (e.g., chain, wire rope, Velcro®strap or a
magnetic, bolt-on, or weldable steel yoke with metal
band). Our universal clamping fixture includes ruled slide
tracks to simplify transducer spacing for accurate flow
measurements. There's even a special small-pipe
clamping fixture with miniaturized transducers to
simplify flow measurement on 0.5 to 2 inch
(15 to 50 mm) lines.
Dual-Channel Version Reduces Costs
and Improves Performance
The optional dual-channel/dual-path model can be
user-configured for a variety of applications. It can be
set up to measure flow in two separate pipes with one
meter to reduce the cost-per-measurement point.
To minimize the effects of flow profile distortions, flow
swirl and cross flow, and to provide maximum accuracy,
two sets of transducers can be installed on the same
pipe.
Wetted Transducers for
Maximum Accuracy
Obstructionless wetted transducers are readily available
for maximum performance. After proper installation,
transit-time accuracies of better than 1 percent are
achievable in most applications, matching the
performance of expensive factory-calibrated meters.
Measurement range is 0.1 to 40 ft/s (0.03 to 12.2 m/s) for
a turndown ratio of 400 to 1 in pipes from 1 to over 200
inches in diameter. Measurement is noncontaminating,
obstructionless and causes no pressure drop. The
DigitalFlow DF868 is all digital so measurements don't
drift, and it doesn't need regular maintenance since
there are no moving parts to wear out or orifices to clog.
GE
Sensing
Transmit
signal
Tracking
window
locked onto
receive signal
Time
Variable time
interval
Range of tracking window
Receive
signal
ATW ensures accuracy when fluid conditions change.
Flowmeter Transducers
Fluid
Flow
Ultrasonic Signal Path
Transit-time flow measurement technique
The difference between the downstream and upstream
transit times is proportional to the velocity of the flowing
liquid, and its sign indicates the direction of flow.
The DF868 Flowmeter
Uses the Transit-Time Flow
Measurement Technique
The transit-time technique uses a pair of transducers,
with each transducer sending and receiving coded
ultrasonic signals through the fluid. When the fluid is
flowing, signal transit time in the downstream direction is
shorter than in the upstream direction. The difference
between these transit times is proportional to the
velocity of the flow. The DigitalFlow DF868 measures this
time difference and uses programmed pipe parameters
to determine flow rate and direction.
Automatically Adjusts to Changing
Fluid Properties
Our unique Automatic Tracking Window™ (ATW™)
feature, standard in all DigitalFlow DF868 meters,
ensures accurate flow measurements even when fluid
properties are unknown or changing. Like the seek mode
on a car stereo, ATW dynamically sweeps the receiver
window whenever the sound speed of the fluid changes.
This powerful feature enables flow measurement when
the fluid sound speed is unknown, when it is changing
due to large temperature shifts, or when a new liquid
starts to flow in a multiproduct pipeline.
Is Built to Be Economical and
Stay Economical
To be of real value, a flowmeter must be as economical
to own and operate as it is capable in the field. Using the
latest microcircuit and manufacturing technologies, the
DigitalFlow DF868 flowmeter is built to stay in service for
many years. Completely solid state, the
DigitalFlow DF868 rarely wears out or needs servicing,
resulting in little downtime and low maintenance costs.
The DigitalFlow DF868 will continue to save money by
streamlining the measurement process and trimming
labor costs.
ATW works for both clamp-on and wetted transducer
applications by searching for a reliable ultrasonic receive
signal. It does this by varying the time between the
transmit signal and the receive signal window until the
receive signal is found. The tracking window
automatically sweeps through a range of time intervals
based on the minimum and maximum expected sound
speeds programmed by the user.
The window moves (tracks) in response to changes in the
fluid sound speed. Once the optimal signal is found, ATW
locks onto it until another large change in sound speed
occurs. When this happens, ATW returns to the seek
mode until the optimal signal is found again.
GE
Sensing
DF868
Specifications
Operation and Performance
Fluid Types
Acoustically conductive fluids, including most clean
liquids, and many liquids with entrained solids or gas
bubbles. (Maximum void fraction depends on transducer,
interrogation carrier frequency, path length and pipe
configuration.)
Pipe Sizes
• Using clamp-on transducers: 0.5 to 300 in
(12.7 mm to 7.6 m) and larger
• Using wetted transducers: 1 to 200 in
(25.4 mm to 5 m) and larger
Pipe Wall Thickness
Up to 3 in (76.2 mm)
Pipe Materials
All metals and most plastics. Consult GE for concrete,
composite materials, and highly corroded or lined pipes.
Flow Accuracy (Velocity)
±0.5% of reading (achievable with process calibration)
Typical Clamp-On Flow Accuracy (Velocity)
• Pipe ID>6 in (150 mm): ±1% to 2% of reading
• Pipe ID<6 in (150 mm): ±2% to 5% of reading
Typical Wetted Flow Accuracy (Velocity)
±1% of reading
Accuracy depends on pipe size, installation and whether
measurement is one-path or two-path.
Repeatability
±0.1% to 0.3% of reading
Range (Bidirectional)
-40 to 40 ft/s (-12.2 to 12.2 m/s)
Rangeability (Overall)
400:1
Specifications assume a fully developed flow profile
(typically 10 diameters upstream and 5 diameters
downstream of straight pipe run) and flow velocity
greater than 1 ft/s (0.3 m/s).
Measurement Parameters
Volumetric flow, totalized flow and flow velocity
Electronics
Flow Measurement
Patented Correlation Transit-Time mode
Enclosures
• Standard: Epoxy-coated aluminum weatherproof
Type 4X/IP66 Class I, Division 2, Groups A,B,C&D
• Optional: Stainless steel, fiberglass, explosion-proof,
flameproof
Dimensions (Atandard)
Weight 11 lb (5 kg),
Size (h x w x d) 14.24 in x 11.4 in x 5.1 in
(362 mm x 290 mm x 130 mm)
Channels
• Standard: One channel
• Optional: Two channels (for two pipes or two-path
averaging)
Display
Two independent software-configurable 64- x 128-pixel
backlit LCD graphic displays
Keypad
39-key tactile feedback membrane keypad
Power Supplies
• Standard: 100 to 130 VAC, 50/60 Hz or 200 to 265 VAC,
50/60 Hz
• Optional: 12 to 28 VDC, ±5%
Power Consumption
20 W maximum
Operating Temperature
-4°F to 131°F (-20°C to 55°C)
GE
Sensing
DF868
Specifications
Storage Temperature
-67°F to 167°F (-55°C to 75°C)
Standard Inputs/Outputs
Two 0/4 to 20 mA isolated outputs, 550 S maximum load
Optional Inputs/Outputs
There are six additional slots available for any
combination of the following I/O boards:
• Analog outputs: Select up to three additional output
boards, each with four isolated 0/4 to 20 mA outputs,
1000 S maximum load
• Analog inputs: Select up to three boards of one of the
following types:
- Analog input board with two isolated 4 to 20 mA
inputs and 24 V loop power
- RTD input board with two isolated, three-wire,
RTD inputs; span -148°F to 662°F (-100°C to 350°C);
100 S
• Totalizer/frequency outputs: Select up to three
totalizer/frequency output boards, each with four
outputs per board, 10 kHz maximum. All boards allow
software-selectable functioning in two modes:
- Totalizer mode: Pulse per defined unit of parameter
(e.g., 1 pulse/gal)
- Frequency mode: Pulse frequency proportional to
magnitude of parameter (e.g., 10 Hz = 1 gpm)
• Alarm relays: Select up to two boards of one of the
following types:
- General purpose: Relay board with three Form C
relays; 120 VAC, 28 VDC maximum, 5 A maximum;
DC 30 W maximum, AC 60 VA
- Hermetically sealed: Relay board with three
hermetically sealed Form C relays; 120 VAC, 28 VDC
maximum, 2 A maximum; DC 56 W maximum,
AC 60 VA
Digital Interfaces
• Standard: RS232
• Optional: RS485 (multiuser)
• Optional: Modbus® RTU
• Optional: Modbus TCP
• Optional: OPC server
• Optional: Ethernet
Site Parameter Programming
• Menu-driven operator interface using keypad and
"soft" function keys
• Storage for 10 sites
Data Logging
Memory capacity (linear and/or circular type) to log over
43,000 flow data points
Display Functions
• Graphic display shows flow in numerical or graphic
format
• Displays logged data and diagnostics
European Compliance
System complies with EMC Directive 89/336/EEC,
73/23/EEC LVD (Installation Category II, Pollution
Degree 2)
Clamp-On Ultrasonic Flow
Transducers
Temperature Ranges
• Standard: -40°F to 300°F (-40°C to 150°C)
• Optional (overall range): -310°F to 572°F
(-190°C to 300°C)
Mountings
Stainless steel chain or strap, welded or magnetic
clamping fixtures
Area Classifications
• Standard: General purpose
• Optional: Weatherproof Type 4/IP65
• Optional: Explosion-proof Class I, Division 1,
Groups B,C&D; Class II, Groups E,F&G; Class III
• Optional: Flameproof
II 2 G EEx md IIC T6-T3
• Optional: Submersible
GE
Sensing
DF868
Specifications
Temperature Ranges
• Standard: -40°F to 212°F (-40°C to 100°C)
• Optional (overall range): -310°F to 1112°F
(-190°C to 600°C)
Pressure Ranges
• Standard: 0 to 3,000 psig (1 to 207 bar)
• Optional: Higher pressures on request
Materials
• Standard: Stainless steel
• Optional (for Pan-Adapta® plugs): Titanium,
Hastelloy® alloy, Monel® alloy, duplex,
Pan-Adapta plugs allow installation and removal of
wetted transducers without interrupting the process or
emptying the pipe.
Process Connections
• Standard: 1 in or 3/8 in NPTM
• Optional: RF flanged, socket weld, fuse bond and
others
Mountings
Flanged flowcell, hot tap or cold tap
Area Classifications
• Standard: General purpose
• Optional: Weatherproof Type 4/IP65
• Optional: Explosion-proof Class I, Division 1,
Groups C&D; Class II, Groups E,F&G; Class III
• Optional: Flameproof ( II 2 G EEx d IIC T6)
• Optional: Submersible
MCerts Product Conformity Certificate
Sira MC 050061/00 for continuous water monitoring
(EU IPPC)
Wetted Ultrasonic Flow Transducers
Transducer Cables
• Standard: One pair of coaxial cables, type RG62 AU, or
as specified for transducer type
• Optional: Lengths up to 1,000 ft (330 m) maximum
High-Temperature and High-Pressure
Ultrasonic Flow Transducers
Bundle Waveguide Technology™ System transducer and
holder (see BWT™ System specifications)
Measurement
Energy Measurement
Calculates energy flow rate and totalized energy.
Requires optional RTD or analog I/O board.
Temperature Transducers
Loop-powered, three-wire, platinum RTDs; clamp-on and
wetted (thermo-well) types are available
Accuracy
±0.08°F ±0.15°C with wetted RTDs (matched pairs)
Range
-4°F to 500°F (-20°C to 260°C)
The accuracy of the energy measurement is a
combination of the accuracy of the associated flow and
temperature measurements. 1% to 2% of reading is
typical for calibrated systems. Not all extremes of
parameters can be achieved simultaneously.
Additional Options
PanaView™ PC-Interface Software
The DigitalFlow DF868 communicates with a PC through
a serial interface and Windows® operating systems.
Consult the manual for details on sites, logs and other
operations with a PC.
GE
Sensing
DF868
Application
Notes In Brief
Clamp-In Capability
GE offers a wide variety of ways to install transducers to
adapt to each piping and application situation. For large
buried pipes, where access to the outside of the pipe
prevents using clamp-on or standard wetted
transducers, GE offers clamp-in transducers. These
transducers offer the unique ability to be attached to the
inner wall of large pipes. With a precision laser alignment
tool, the transducers, can be set up properly facing each
other, so when the water fills the pipe, the transducers
will work flawlessly. The clamp-on transducer is design
with a dual element head for 100% redundancy. GE is an
industry leader in transducer design with extremely low
failure rates. By making these transducers with two
elements, ensures years of operation without their ever
having to be serviced.
Clamp-On Avoids Plugged Impulse Lines
GE offers clamp-on transducers for a wide variety of
installations. One customer purchased the C-RS
transducer with a DigitalFlow DF868 to measure flow on
a 12 in (300 mm) crude resid stream. Previously, an
orifice plate was used for the measurement. The impulse
lines for the DP transmitter were consistantly getting
plugged, resulting in the need for service and unreliable
flow measurements. The clamp-on system offered by GE
was a preferred measurement setup because installation
could be done while the unit was operating, and no
additional restrictions that could cause pressure drop
were introduced. The customer saved approximately
US $50,000 in the first year, due to reduced maintenance
costs.
Pair of CRS transducers
Ø 0.25 in
(6.3 mm)
0.125 in
(3.175 mm)
0.125 in
(3.175 mm)
1/4-20 nuts for
adjusting the
transducers’
alignment during
installation
GE
Sensing
©2005 GE. All rights reserved.
920-001B
All specifications are subject to change for product improvement without notice.
DigitalFlow™, Correlation Transit-Time™, Pan-Adapta
®
, Bundle Waveguide
Techonolgoy™, BWT™ and PanaView™ are trademarks or registered trademarks
of GE. GE
®
is a registered trademark of General Electric Co. Windows is a
registerd trademark of Microsoft Corporation, which is not affiliated with GE, in the
U.S. or other countries. Other company or product names mentioned in this
document may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
companies, which are not affiliated with GE.
g
www.gesensing.com
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