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Air flow meters for compressed air and specialty gases

  • Measurement to ISO 2533 and DIN 1343
  • For compressed air in industrial use as well as argon (Ar), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2)
  • Large measuring range up to 700 Nm³/h
  • Fast response time and high response sensitivity
  • With volumetric flow quantity, total quantity and temperature indication

Air flow meters

Compressed air leak detection is important for any modern industrial facitlity.  Air flow meters from ifm measure flow rate, pressure and temperature for compressed air and specialty gases. Get precise, actionable data that minimizes operating and maintenance costs, increases productivity and efficiency, and optimizes energy usage.

Key features of air flow meters

  • Multicolor TFT display that simultaneously shows:
    • Volumetric flow
    • Temperature
    • Pressure
    • Totalizer
  • Two bright LEDs indicating output status changes
  • Integrated pipe ensuring proper installation by maintaining straight pipe runs upstream and downstream of the flow meter
  • Free factory calibration certificate

Air flow meter specifications

SD air flow meters and specialty gas flow meters are equipped with integrated totalizers that track the accumulated fluid volume that has passed through the unit over time. Multiple process and diagnostic values can be conveyed to your control system concurrently using integrated IO-Link functionality.

Benefits of air flow meters for compressed air and industrial gases

  • Reduce waste of compressed air in industrial settings
  • Configurability allows for the use of a single part number across multiple applications
  • High measuring accuracy for reliable detection of very small quantities and enables the detection of leaks
  • All-in-one sensor (flow, pressure and temperature) saves time through reduced wiring, maintenance and installation costs.

Real-time analytics and data visualization with your air flow meter

IO-Link technology uses real-time analytics to immediately alert you to leaks, blown seals, and other process inefficiencies. Additional software provides easy-to-read data visualization. Save time and money by responding immediately to changes in flow rate.

Air flow meters: FAQs

Get answers to frequently-asked questions or find additional information about air flow meters on our air flow meter Learn More pages.

How do I choose an air flow meter?

When choosing an air flow meter, knowing the monitored flow rate and installation line size is crucial. Additionally, consider process connection for piping adaptation and specifying output needs: discrete on/off, 4-20 mA, pulsed totalizer, or IO-Link options.

What happens if the scfm is too high in your air flow meter?

Signs that scfm is too high include:

  • Increase pressure loss
  • Turbulence leads to measurement inaccuracies
  • Leaks developing

(Critical Over Limit) error displays, with the output defaulting to a specified value. “OL” appears at 120-130% of the final value of the measuring range, while “cr.OL” indicates above 130%.

Does a flow meter reduce pressure? 

At most, a flow meter may reduce pressure, or create a pressure drop, by a neglible amount relative to the system pressure. Pressure drop is created by frictional losses along a pipe run as well as intrusions into the pipe, such as measuring devices. System pressure drops are more likely due to leaks at fittings and joints, not the flow meter.  

ifm's SD air flow meters have two low-profile probes which are inserted into the airflow, but they do not have a serious impact on system pressure. 

What is the impact of pipe diameter and shape on air flow measurement accuracy?

Pipe diameter and shape generally have no impact on flow measurement accuracy because gas under pressure expands across the entire pipe cross section. The measurement devices must be inserted into the flow properly. 

ifm's SD flow sensors are premounted on a pipe to ensure proper insertion depth. 

How often should air flow meters be calibrated?

Air flow meters should be calibrated regularly. The frequency depends on the industry and related regulations, plus individual process needs. Most industries require calibration monthly, every six months, or annually.                                                                 

ifm air flow meters do not specify calibration or maintenance requirements. ISO calibration verification certificates are accessible at purchase, with additional free certificates obtainable via product serial number.

What is the typical lifespan of an industrial air flow meter?

While the typical lifespan of an industrial air flow meter is 25 years or more, this is dependent on its environment. For example, when an ifm air flow meter is used within the published specifications, the mean time to failure (MTTF) is 183 years according to the datasheet.

“Additionally, all ifm products are backed with the longest established warranty program in the sensor industry. All products have a 5-year warranty after the date of shipment.