Beverly, MA: KROHNE, a global leader in measurement solutions for the process industries, is proud to highlight advancements in its Variable Area (VA) Flowmeter technology. With over a century of expertise, KROHNE continues to drive innovation by incorporating cutting-edge features that enhance functional safety, application diagnostics, and operational efficiency across industries.
Variable Area flowmeters, also known as rotameters, remain indispensable for low-flow measurement applications due to their simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. These instruments are widely used in industries such as chemical processing, oil and gas, and water treatment where precision and safety are paramount.
KROHNE’s latest developments in VA flowmeter technology include SIL 2 compliance for safety instrumented systems, enabling their use in critical applications such as nitrogen inerting for explosion protection. The company’s portfolio of SIL-certified VA meters is specifically designed to monitor minimum and maximum flow rates and initiate shutdowns in hazardous environments. Notably, 92% of these devices are deployed in Class I, Division 1 hazardous areas.
To further enhance process reliability, KROHNE has introduced Continuous Float Monitoring (CFM) diagnostics in its VA flowmeters. This innovation detects float blockages, pulsations, external magnetic interference, and other anomalies that could compromise measurement accuracy or system safety. These diagnostics are available across KROHNE’s electronic VA meters and can be retrofitted into existing installations through modular upgrades.
The modularity of KROHNE’s VA flowmeters also supports safer maintenance practices by allowing users to upgrade or replace components without removing the meter from the pipeline. This reduces worker exposure to hazardous media while minimizing downtime during retrofits or repairs.
KROHNE’s commitment to safe engineering is reflected in its efforts to address common systematic errors associated with VA flowmeters. The company provides tools and guidelines to ensure proper installation and calibration under varying pressure, density, and viscosity conditions. Additionally, KROHNE offers resources such as eLearning modules on functional safety standards (IEC 61508/61511) to help customers optimize their processes while adhering to industry regulations.
Variable Area (VA) flowmeters remain a trusted solution due to their unique advantages in low-pressure gas and non-conductive liquid applications. By incorporating modern diagnostics and achieving SIL compliance, KROHNE enhances this proven technology to help customers meet stringent safety requirements while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
KROHNE remains dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that prioritize safety, reliability, and efficiency for its global customer base. For more information about KROHNE’s Variable Area Flowmeter portfolio or other process instrumentation solutions, visit us.krohne.com.
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