Next-generation steam flow meter offers unprecedented accuracy to support energy-saving initiatives
Spirax Sarco brings unrivalled accuracy to steam metering with the launch of its TVA steam flow meter, a next-generation spring-loaded inline variable area meter.
With a 50:1 turndown, the TVA flow meter provides accurate measurements down to 1/50th of its maximum flow rate, ensuring all steam energy consumption can be accounted for. Other meter types offer turndowns of typically less than 20:1 when used on steam systems.Low turndown meters decay in accuracy at low flow rates, or stop measuring altogether, allowing steam to be consumed without being measured. This is particularly important in steam systems where flows tend to be much slower than in other fluid systems.
The TVA brings huge advantages, particularly when used in monitoring and targeting (M&T) schemes that can create significant energy savings, but which depend on accurate measurement across all flow rates.
Spirax Sarco TVA also needs far less space to be installed. Only six pipe diameters of straight pipe upstream and three downstream are required for a smooth steam flow into the meter to ensure measurement accuracy.
In comparison, vortex flow meters need 15 pipe diameters upstream and five downstream. In many steam systems there are limited straight pipe runs available, especially near to the point of use. Consequently, the TVA meter can be installed without the need for costly pipe modifications that other flow meter types would entail.
Installation itself is also quick and easy. The Spirax Sarco TVA flow meter is a stand-alone unit that integrates flow sensing device, temperature sensor, connection accessories and flow computer into a compact unit, eliminating the need for additional external equipment. It can be installed in about half the time taken to install a meter with separate components. And being built for steam, commissioning is rapid, not involving the complex set up that many other meter types require for use with steam.
Spirax Sarco TVA uses a profiled stainless steel cone with a large, smooth surface area plated in hard chromium to resist erosion from wet steam, for a long and reliable operational life with recalibration rarely needed. Other meter types, such as vortex and orifice plate, feature sharp internal edges that wear much more quickly in steam flows, affecting accuracy and requiring frequent and disruptive recalibration.
The performance and reliability advantages of the Spirax Sarco TVA flow meter are backed by a three-year warranty, exceeding the one-year norm for instrumentation. The meter is available with a choice of 4-20 mA and pulse outputs for easy integration with energy management or control systems. It comes in DN50, DN80 and DN100 sizes and is suitable for use in steam systems up to 32 bar g.
For more information, email uk.enquiries@uk.spiraxsarco.com, call 01242 535319 or alternatively visit www.spiraxsarco.com/uk.
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