Experimental analysis of multiport averaging device and effect of body shape on flow coefficient

Abstract

This paper deals with the experimental results obtained using different shapes of multi-port averaging device at different gauge pressure. The cross-section of the multiport averaging device is essential factor which effects the meter performance. A closed loop air test facility(CLATF) is used for testing and calibration of the flowmeter, which is used to measure the air flow rate or velocity of flow. The circular probe is a commercial design while the diamond shape with slight modification is analyzed for providing better performance and appreciable result with less disturbance in the flow line. The prototype test of the flowmeter is done at a defined length of upstream straight pipe after an elbow bend, for a condition of well defined turbulent flow profile. The calibration is done at 2 and 5 gauge pressure while the flow rate varied from 0.0283 to 0.1121m3/s. As a result, the diamond shaped probe with curved edges provided appreciable differential pressure and flow coefficient compared to circular probe keeping the same blockage to both the probe facing the flow.

Keywords

• flow measurement
• apt
• flow coefficient
• probe
• differential pressure flowmeter
• gauge pressure