Flo-tech turbine flow sensors measure the flow rate of hydraulic fluid and compatible liquids. Built to withstand rigorous
hydraulic applications, these flow sensors are available in anodized aluminum and zinc plated Stressproof® steel bodies. Port
types vary by body material, but include a choice of SAE, BSPP, Code 61 and Code 62, 4-bolt flanged options.
Typical applications for the turbine flow sensors include:
• Fluid characteristic measurement on test stands
• Stationary hydraulic system monitoring
• Feedback for hydraulic system control
• Advance warning of impending component failure
• Mobile hydraulic system diagnosis
Flo-tech offers four different flow sensor models. Each of these models is available in a wide selection of flow ranges and
port sizes.
Activa Sensor ArrayClassic Flow Sensor
Features:Features:
• Four flow ranges
• Four port sizes
• Accuracy of ±1% reading @ 32 cSt
• Pressures up to 5800 psi (400 bar)
• Temperatures up to 300° F (150° C)
• 4…20 mA or 0…5V DC output for flow
• 4…20 mA output for pressure and temperature
Ultima Sensor ArrayQuad Flow Sensor
Features:Features:
• Four flow ranges
• Four port sizes
• Accuracy of ±1% full scale
• Pressures up to 5800 psi (400 bar)
• Temperatures up to 300° F (150° C)
• Frequency output for flow
• 4…20 mA output for pressure and temperature
• Eight flow ranges
• Eight port sizes
• Accuracy of ±1% full scale
• Pressures up to 6000 psi (414 bar)
• Temperatures up to 300° F (150° C)
• Frequency output for flow
• Four flow ranges
• Two port sizes
• Accuracy of ±1% full scale
• Pressures up to 6000 psi (414 bar)
• Temperatures up to 300° F (150° C)
• Frequency output for flow
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Page 4
Operating Principle
OPERATING PRINCIPLE
1 Housing6 Signal Converter (analog output)
2 Turbine Rotor7 Pressure Port Adapter
3 Rotor Supports8 Temperature Port Adapter
4 Lock Nut9 Retaining Rings
5 Magnetic Pickup (frequency output)
Turbine flow sensors measure the flow rate of hydraulic fluid and compatible liquids. As fluid flows through the sensor it turns
the turbine rotor, and as the turbine blades pass the magnetic pickup a frequency signal is generated. This frequency signal is
proportional to the flow rate and can be transmitted to Flo-tech’s digital displays or converted to an analog output. Optional
sensors allow measurement of pressure and temperature.
INSTALLATION
THIS PRODUCT SHOULD BE INSTALLED AND SERVICED BY TECHNICALLY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL TRAINED IN
MAINTAINING INDUSTRIAL CLASS FLOW INSTRUMENTATION AND PROCESSING EQUIPMENT.
READ INSTRUCTIONS THOROUGHLY BEFORE INSTALLING THE FLOW SENSOR. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS
REGARDING PRODUCT INSTALLATION OR MAINTENANCE, CALL YOUR LOCAL SUPPLIER OR THE FACTORY FOR MORE
INFORMATION.
WARNING
DO NOT USE MALE PIPE THREADS (NPT) INTO SAE STRAIGHT THREAD PORTS. USING MALE PIPE THREADS (NPTF)
WITH A FLOW SENSOR POSSESSING SAE STRAIGHT THREAD O-RING PORTS WILL NOT CREATE A PROPER SEAL AND
IS POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS. PIPE THREADS INSERTED INTO AN SAE STRAIGHT THREAD PORT ONLY ALLOW THE
ENGAGEMENT OF ONE OR TWO THREADS. NO AMOUNT OF TIGHTENING OR THREAD SEAL WILL STOP THE LEAKING
OR MAKE THE INSTALLATION SAFE. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL
INJURY OR DEATH AND/OR DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT.
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Page 5
Installation
Installation Recommendations
The in-line flow sensor is a simple device to install. However, the following measures are recommended for reliable,
trouble-free operation:
1. Provide at least 10 port diameters of upstream straight pipe with no obstructions to the ow sensor and at least 5
diameters of downstream pipe. The pipe should be of the same diameter as the nominal port size.
1" PORT
(25.4 mm)
END VIEW
10 PORT DIAMETERS
10" (254 mm)
IN
5 PORT DIAMETERS
5" (127 mm)
Example:
An FSC-1000 has a 1 in. (25.4 mm) port. The unobstructed upstream length should be at least 10 in. (254 mm) and the
downstream length should be at least 5 in. (127 mm).
2. Choose a position for the ow sensor that is not at the lowest level in the system. Placing the ow sensor at a higher
elevation in the system will avoid collection of debris, sediment and dirt in the ow sensor.
3. Use a lter. All applications should be ltered to at least 40 micron.
4. Do not install a ow sensor directly in-line with the outlet of a pump, as pressure pulsations can react with the turbine.
Install the sensor after another component, observing the 10 port diameter rule.
5. Do not adjust the magnetic pickup on the ow sensor. This is calibrated at the factory. Further adjustment will cause a
decrease in performance or damage to the sensor.
6. Do not exceed the working temperature range of –4…300° F (–20…150° C). Higher temperatures will damage the
magnetic pickup and lower temperatures will limit the rotation of the turbine.
Electrical Connections for Standard Magnetic Pickup
Standard Magnetic Pickup with Frequency Output, 2-pin Connector
Cable Assembly
F2832-6 6 ft
F2832-15 15 ft
B
B (BLACK) –
A
A(RED)
+
B A
(BLACK) –
(RED)
+
(WHITE) N.C.
Magnetic Pickup
Male Connector
2
1
3
Magnetic Pickup
Male Connector
Top of
F2832 Cable
Standard Magnetic Pickup with Frequency Output, 3-pin Connector
1 (WHITE) N.C.
2 (BLACK) –
3 (RED) +
2
3
1
Top of
F6234 Cable
Cable Assembly
F6234-6 6 ft
F6234-15 15 ft
(BLACK) –
(RED)
+
(WHITE) N.C.
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Page 6
Installation
Electrical Connections for IFC (Intelligent Frequency Converter)
IFC with 4…20 mA Output (F to I), 5-pin Connector
3
4
5
F to I Converter
Male Connector
The 4…20 mA output can drive auxiliary devices (resistive loads) such as displays, recorders and computers, provided that the
voltage supplied by the power supply is adequate. Devices must be wired in series with the F to I converter and power supply.
The voltage drop across the load(s) and the 6V DC minimum needed to drive the F to I converter determine the minimum
voltage required from the power supply.
Determine the necessary voltage required to adequately drive the F to I converter and auxiliary device(s).
The F to I converter acts as a current controlling device keeping the current output the same even if the power supply voltage
fluctuates or the load resistance changes. The current varies only with respect to the flow rate from the turbine flow sensor, as
long as the voltage drop across the F to I converter is at least 6V DC.
The load(s) in the circuit will generally have some electrical resistance, 100 Ohms for this example. The 4…20 mA loop current
will produce a voltage drop across each load. The maximum voltage drop across a load(s) will exist when the loop current is
20 mA. The power supply must provide enough voltage for the load(s) plus the 6V DC minimum insertion loss of the
F to I converter.
2
1
+ 4…20 mA
– 4…20 mA
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
PIN 1
PIN 2
PIN 3
PIN 4
PIN 5
RED
BLACK
WHITE
+ 4…20 mA (Sink)
– 4…20 mA (Source)
No Connection
Cable Assembly
F6557-6 6 ft
F6557-15 15 ft
2
1
3
4
5
Cable
Connector
(RED) + Loop
(BLACK) – Loop
(WHITE) N.C.
Sucient Power Supply Voltage
Example 1
F to I
Converter
150
Ohms
4…20 mA
100
Ohms50Ohms
Total Load Resistance = 300 Ohms
At 20 mA loop current, the voltage drop across the load(s)
is 6 volts:
300 Ohms × 20 mA = 6000 mV or 6 volts
Subtract 6 volts from the 24 volt source to determine that
18 volts is available to power the F to I converter. The 18
volts is within the specied 10…30 volt range and is
sucient to power the F to I converter.
Page 6 March 2019SEN-UM-00987-EN-04
24V DC
Power
Supply
At 20 mA loop current, the voltage drop across the load(s)
Subtract 20 volts from the 24 volt source to determine that
4 volts is available to power the F to I converter. The 4
volts is below the specied 10…30 volt range and is not
adequate to power the F to I converter. If for example, the
power supply voltage was 30 volts instead of 24 volts, the
voltage available to power the F to I converter would be 10
volts and within the specied range.
Insucient Power Supply Voltage
Example 2
F to I
Converter
4…20 mA
1000
Ohms
Total Load Resistance = 1000 Ohms
is 14 volts:
1000 Ohms × 20 mA = 20,000 mV or 20 volts
24V DC
Power
Supply
Page 7
Loop Load (Ohm's)
4
5
F to V Converter
Male Connector
1400
1200
1000
800
600
400
Operate in the
Shaded Region
200
1012141618202224
Supply Voltage (VDC)
IFC with 0…5V DC Output (F to V), 5-pin Connector
3
2
10…26V DC
1
SIGNAL
GND
N.C.
N.C.
PIN 1
PIN 2
PIN 3
PIN 4
PIN 5
RED
BLACK
WHITE
10…26V DC
SIGNAL
0V
26
2830
2
1
Installation
3
4
5
Cable
Connector
Cable Assembly
F6557-6 6 ft
F6557-15 15 ft
Electrical Connections for Optional Pressure and Temperature Sensors
Pressure Sensor, Optional, 3-pin Connector
2
1
3
Pressure Sensor
Male Connector
2
1
3
1 N/C (WHITE)
2 – Signal Output (BLACK)
3 + Voltage (RED)
Temperature Sensor, Optional – 3-pin Connector
1 Case Ground (WHITE)
2 – Signal Output (BLACK)
3 + Voltage (RED)
2
3
1
Top of
F6234 Cable
2
3
1
Cable Assembly
F6234-6 6 ft
F6234-15 15 ft
Cable Assembly
F6234-6 6 ft
F6234-15 15 ft
(RED) 10…26V DC
(BLACK) SIGNAL
(WHITE) 0V
(BLACK) –
(RED)
+
(WHITE) N.C.
(BLACK) –
(RED)
+
(WHITE) N.C.
Temperature Sensor
Male Connector
Top of
F6234 Cable
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Page 8
Operation
OPERATION
General
WARNING
DO NOT EXCEED ALLOWABLE PRESSURE RATINGS. PRESSURE IN EXCESS OF THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE RATINGS MAY
CAUSE THE TURBINE BODY TO FAIL. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL
INJURY OR DEATH AND/OR DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT.
1. Allow uids to warm to operating temperatures before critical measurements are taken.
2. Maintain a ooded condition in the ow sensor at all times. Air and turbulence will result in erroneous readings.
3. Do not exceed the working temperature range of –4…300° F (–20…150° C). Higher temperatures will damage the
magnetic pickup and lower temperatures will limit the rotation of the turbine.
Flow Sensors with IFC Option
As soon as power is applied, the IFC will begin to output an analog value representative of the measured frequency from the
turbine meter. See the wiring diagram that corresponds to the IFC being used.
MAINTENANCE
WARNING
ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE PRIMARY POWER SOURCE BEFORE INSPECTION OR SERVICE. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE
INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH AND/OR DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT.
1. A schedule for maintenance checks should be determined based on environmental conditions and frequency of use.
Inspect the sensors at least once a year.
2. Perform visual, electrical and mechanical checks on all components.
a. Visually check for undue heating evidenced by discoloration of wires or other components, damaged or worn parts, or
excessive corrosion of the device.
b. Electrically check to make sure that all connections are clean and tight and that the device is operating properly.
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Page 9
TROUBLESHOOTING
IssuePossible CauseRemedy
Troubleshooting
Sensor indicates higher
than actual flow rate
Sensor indicates lower
than actual flow rate
Erratic indications on
readout
Readout shows flow
when pumps are not
running
No flow indication at any
flow rate
Erratic indications at
low flows, but good
indications at high flows
System works except
readings are lower than
expected
No current output
Analog output reads a
constant reading all the
time
Analog output is not
stable
• Cavitation
• Debris on straightening section
• Build-up of foreign material on sensor bore
• Gas in liquid
• Debris on turbine
• Worn bearing
• Any of the above
• Ground loop problem
• Turbulence in fluid stream
• Mechanical vibration or pump dither
causes turbine to oscillate even though
there is no flow
• Foreign material stopping turbine rotation
• Damaged turbine and/or bearing
• Magnetic pickup stopping turbine rotation
• Magnetic pickup shorted or open
• Foreign material wrapped around turbine• Clean sensor and add filter
• Flow is being bypassed
• System has a leak
• Low or missing supply voltage
• Broken / disconnected wires
• Incorrect wiring polarity
• Electrical noise in vicinity
• Damaged electronics
• Electrical noise in vicinity
• Entrained gas in liquid
• Damaged meter rotor
• Foreign matter lodged in turbine
• Increase back pressure
• Clean sensor
• Clean sensor
• Install gas eliminator ahead of sensor
• Clean sensor and add filter
• Have sensor serviced and add filter
• Any of the above
• Be sure only one system ground is present.
Reroute cables away from electrical noise
• Redo plumbing per instructions
• Isolate flow sensor
• Clean sensor and add filter
• Have sensor or magnetic pickup replaced
• Repair or replace faulty valves
• Find and repair any system leaks
• Check polarity of the current loop
connections for proper orientation
• Make sure receiving device is configured to
provide loop current
• Make sure there is flow in the system
• Verify that the rotor inside the turbine
meter turns freely
• Check shield
• Remove noise producing device
• External noise is being picked up by the
sensor. Keep all AC wires separate from DC
wires.
• Check for radio antenna in close proximity.
This usually indicates a weak signal.
Repeatability±0.2%
Pressure rating5800 psi (400 bar) maximum, 5000 psi (345 bar) maximum for 1-1/4 in. models
Turbine response≤200 ms
Fluid temperature–4…300° F (–20…150° C)
Ambient temperature–4…131° F (–20…55° C)
4…20 mA
Activa
0…5V DC
Ultima
Flow sensors are calibrated with 0.876 specific gravity, 140 SUS (32 cSt) hydraulic oil. Standard calibration is
done using 3-points and is traceable to NIST, ISO 9001/ANSI Z540-1 & MIL-STD 45662A.
Magnetic
Pickup
6061-T6 Aluminum
C360 Brass for 1/4 in. models
Buna N standard
Viton® and EPR optional
BodyT303 Stainless Steel
NutT303 Stainless Steel
Body6061-T6 Aluminum, nickel plate
ConnectorBrass, nickel plate
Case300 Series stainless steel
Diaphragm 17-4 PH stainless steel
Activa±1% of reading @ 32 cSt
Ultima±1% of full scale
PowerLoop-powered, 6V insertion loss max, 10…30V DC supply
Frequency0…3500 Hz
Trigger sensitivity30 mV p-p
Frequency measure accuracy ±1%
Ambient temp.–22…158° F (–30…70° C)
Humidity0…90% non-condensing
Frequency0…3500 Hz
Trigger sensitivity30 mV p-p
Frequency measure accuracy ±1%
Ambient temp.–22…158° F (–30…70° C)
Humidity0…90% non-condensing
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Page 13
Classic Flow Sensor
Specications
Materials
Performance
Electrical
Calibration
Housing
Turbine rotorT416 Stainless steel
Rotor supports
Rotor shaft
Bearings
Hub conesFSC, FSB6061-T6 Aluminum alloy
Retaining rings
Adapters/plugs6061-T6 Anodized aluminum
SealsBuna N standard, Viton® and EPR optional
Magnetic pickup
IFC (Intelligent
Frequency Converter):
Ports:SAE Straight thread O-ring boss, female, J1926/1; Code 61 and Code 62: SAE J518
Flow accuracy
Repeatability±0.2%
Pressure rating
Pressure dropSee “Flow vs. Pressure Drop Charts” on page 11
Turbine response≤200 ms
Fluid temperature–4…300° F (–20…150° C)
Ambient temperature–4…131° F (–20…55° C)
Magnetic Pickup
4…20 mA
IFC
Converter
0…5V DC
Flow sensors are calibrated with 0.876 specific gravity, 140 SUS (32 cSt) hydraulic oil. Standard calibration is
done using 3-points and is traceable to NIST, ISO 9001/ANSI Z540-1 & MIL-STD 45662A
Hub cones6061-T6 Aluminum alloy
Retaining ringsSteel, zinc plate
SealsBuna N standard, Viton® and EPR optional
Magnetic pickup
BodyT303 Stainless Steel
NutT303 Stainless Steel
PortsSAE Straight thread O-ring boss, female, J1926/1
Flow accuracy±1% of full scale
Repeatability±0.2%
Pressure rating5000 psi (345 bar) maximum
Pressure dropSee “Flow vs. Pressure Drop Charts” on page 11
Turbine response ≤200 ms
Fluid temp.–4…300° F (–20…150° C)
Ambient temp.–4…131° F (–20…55° C)
Flow sensors are calibrated with 0.876 specific gravity, 140 SUS (32 cSt) hydraulic oil. Standard calibration is
done using 3-points and is traceable to NIST, ISO 9001/ANSI Z540-1 & MIL-STD 45662A.