Vortex flow meters are increasingly adopted in HVAC systems for their precision and reliability. Known technically as shedder-bar instruments, these meters detect vortices generated behind a bluff body placed in the flow. The MF series by Industrie Technik offers advanced features, making them well suited to modern HVAC applications.
What Are Vortex Flow Meters?
Vortex flow meters measure fluid flow by detecting vortices formed downstream of a bluff body. As the fluid passes the obstruction, it detaches in alternating patterns called the von Kármán vortex street. A piezoelectric sensor picks up pressure pulsations at a frequency proportional to flow velocity. The electronics then compute volumetric flow rates using this frequency.
Image: Research Gate
Components and Principle
- Bluff body generates alternating vortices.
- Piezoelectric sensor: detects pulsation frequency.
- Signal processor converts frequency into a calibrated output signal such as 4–20 mA or frequency pulses.
The MF Series by Industrie Technik
Industrie Technik
Industrie Technik is part of Regin Group, based in central Europe. They specialise in rugged field devices for HVAC automation. The company focuses on durable, long‑lasting infrastructure suitable for global installations in varied buildings.
MF Series Overview
Launched recently, the MF series offers high accuracy and reliability in liquid flow measurement. The housings are made from glass‑fibre reinforced PA6, ensuring strength and weather resistance.
Key features include:
- Accuracy within ±2% full‑scale and ±1.5% repeatability
- Operational flow range between 5 and 150 l/min
- Low pressure drop and maintenance‑free operation, since no moving parts are present
- LED status indicator and Modbus RTU connectivity for real-time monitoring
- Optional integrated temperature sensor, enabling energy measurement
- Protection class IP65, suitable for demanding HVAC environments
How the MF Series Works
Flow passes through the pipe and encounters the bluff body. Vortices are shed at a frequency proportional to flow rate. The built‑in piezoelectric element senses this and sends pulses to the meter’s electronics. The internal processor then converts that to a user‑selectable output. These devices comply with Strouhal relations, maintaining linear and reliable flow proportionality within typical Reynolds number ranges.
Benefits in HVAC Systems
Precision and Repeatability
With ±2% accuracy and ±1.5% repeatability, the MF series ensures stable readings for control and optimisation.
Low Pressure Drop
The shedder‑bar design minimises pressure loss. In HVAC loops, this means pump efficiency and system optimisation benefit from reduced energy consumption.
Durability and Reliability
- No moving parts reduces wear and maintenance needs.
- Material choice and IP65 rating ensure endurance in typical HVAC conditions.
- Approved for use with A2L/A3 refrigerants, fitting with modern HVAC refrigerants.
Easy Integration and Monitoring
Modbus RTU interface, LED status lights, and optional energy measurement enhance ease of integration into BMS and HVAC controllers.
Cost‑effective Energy Monitoring
With integrated temperature sensing, the MF meter can be used as an energy meter. It supports dual‑channel billing and energy cost allocation.
Installation and Configuration
Physical Installation
The meters support pipe diameters from DN15 to DN25, and connection is via threaded or flanged fittings. A 10‑15 x pipe‑diameter straight run upstream is recommended for accurate measurement.
Electrical and Signal Setup
They use 12‑24 V DC and offer 4‑20 mA, frequency, or Modbus outputs regincontrols.com. Configuration is managed via Modbus, making set‑up efficient.
Maintenance
Typical maintenance is minimal. However, occasional cleaning of the sensing area after fluid contamination may be needed. The LED offers quick visual status checks.
Application Scenarios
Chilled Water Systems
Accurate chilled water monitoring helps balance coils and control system flow effectively.
Hot Water Circuits
Precise flow validation is crucial in systems with heat pump sources and variable distribution.
Energy Sub‑Metering
With optional temperature sensing, the MF series can measure energy via flow x delta‑T—useful for tenant billing and system audits.
Pump Efficiency Analysis
Real‑time flow readings support variable speed drive optimisation and energy saving.
Comparison with Other Flow Measuring Technologies
Magnetic Flow Meters
Best suited to conductive fluids and larger pipes. Vortex types are simpler, cheaper, and better for small‑bore HVAC lines.
Ultrasonic and Optical Flow Meters
These offer non‑invasive measurement but can be costlier and more sensitive to pipe conditions compared to vortex types.
Turbine Meters
While accurate, they contain moving parts and have higher friction loss. Vortex meters avoid these issues.
The MF series by Industrie Technik is a robust, accurate, and versatile choice for HVAC flow measurement. They combine low pressure drop, maintenance‑free operation and modern connectivity in compact housings. The addition of energy measurement capability via optional temperature sensors makes them ideal for control, monitoring, and billing. For any modern HVAC system seeking reliable flow meters with integration flexibility, the MF series presents a compelling solution.
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