Thermal vs Vortex vs Differential Pressure: How to Choose the Right Flow Measurement Technology
Selecting a flow meter is rarely about accuracy alone. In industrial applications, the real challenges include: Variable flow rates Pressure...
- Schedule. Mon - Sat 09.00 - 20.00
Flow Meter
Thermal Mass Flow Meter
Direct Mass Flow Measurement for Industrial Gas Applications
In industrial gas measurement, inaccurate compensation, pressure fluctuation, and density correction often lead to unreliable flow data. The Instrava Thermal Mass Flow Meter eliminates these variables by directly measuring mass flow based on thermal dispersion principle, without the need for temperature or pressure compensation.
Designed for industrial gas systems, it delivers high accuracy, stable performance, and long-term reliability in compressed air, natural gas, nitrogen, oxygen, biogas, and mixed gas applications.
Why Choose Instrava Thermal Mass Flow Meter?
Direct Mass Flow Measurement – No external temperature or pressure compensation required
High Accuracy – Up to ±0.1% measurement accuracy
Wide Temperature Range – Sensor up to 300°C
Digital Output & Communication – 4–20mA, Pulse, Frequency, HART, MODBUS
Explosion-Proof Available – Ex db IIC T6 Gb
Compact & Easy Installation – Integrated or remote type
For plant engineers and system integrators, this means reduced installation complexity and stable long-term performance.
Flow Meter Description
Thermal Flow Meter Key Advantages
Direct Mass Flow Measurement
No pressure or temperature compensation required
Measures true mass flow rather than volumetric flow
Also provides standard volumetric flow output
High Measurement Accuracy
Accuracy up to 0.1% / 0.15%
Excellent repeatability and stability
Suitable for both single gases and mixed gases
Wide Process Adaptability
Sensor temperature range: -40°C to 300°C
Pressure rating: ≤ 1.6 MPa
Pipe size range: DN15 – DN150
316L stainless steel construction
Flexible Output & Communication
4–20 mA analog output
Pulse and frequency output
HART communication
MODBUS RS-485
Supports PLC, DCS, and SCADA systems
Industrial-Grade Design
Integrated or remote transmitter options
LCD display with local keypad operation
IP65 / IP67 protection rating
Explosion-proof certification: Ex db IIC T6 Gb
Power supply: 220 VAC or 24 VDC
Thermal Mass Flowmeter Measurement Principle – Constant Temperature Difference Method
The thermal mass flow meter operates based on the thermal diffusion principle using two platinum RTD sensors:
One sensor continuously measures medium temperature (T1)
The second sensor is heated above medium temperature (T2)
When gas flows across the heated sensor, heat is carried away. To maintain a constant temperature difference (ΔT = T2 – T1), the system increases heating power.
The required power is directly proportional to the mass flow rate of the gas.
This constant temperature differential method ensures:
Direct mass flow measurement
High repeatability
Stable performance in fluctuating process conditions
Thermal Flowmeter Functional Capabilities
Mass flow measurement
Standard volumetric flow measurement
Totalized flow accumulation
Digital display and parameter configuration
Multi-signal output for automation integration
Thermal Mass Flow Meter Selection Guidance
When selecting a thermal mass flow meter, engineers should evaluate:
Gas composition (single or mixed gas)
Operating temperature range
Pipe diameter
Required communication protocol
Hazardous area classification
Instrava provides technical evaluation support for proper sizing and configuration.
Flow Meter Parameter
Thermal Mass Flow Meter Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Structure | Integrated / Remote |
| Applicable Gas | Single Gas / Mixed Gas |
| Pipe Diameter | DN15 – DN150 |
| Process Pressure | ≤ 1.6 MPa |
| Process Connection | Flange (Thread optional ≤ DN50) |
| Sensor Temperature | -40°C ~ 300°C |
| Transmitter Temperature | -20°C ~ 60°C |
| Material | 316L |
| Protection Grade | IP65 / IP67 |
| Display | LCD with keypad operation |
| Measurement Functions | Mass Flow, Standard Volume Flow, Totalizer |
| Output | 4–20mA, Pulse, Frequency |
| Communication | HART / MODBUS RS-485 |
| Accuracy | ±0.1% / ±0.15% |
| Power Supply | 220VAC / 24VDC |
| Explosion Proof | Ex db IIC T6 Gb |
Instrava OEM/ODM
Instrava Engineering & Customization Support
At Instrava, our instruments are developed with a strong focus on real industrial applications. Each product is designed to operate as a reliable component within measurement, control, and automation systems, rather than as a standalone device.
Our engineering team supports customers during product selection by evaluating process conditions, operating environments, and system requirements, ensuring stable and long-term performance in actual use.
In addition to standard configurations, Instrava offers flexible customization options, including measurement range, materials, output signals, communication interfaces, and installation methods. All custom solutions are engineered to meet industrial standards and application-specific demands.
We also support OEM projects and system integration, providing consistent product design, technical documentation, and long-term supply to ensure smooth integration and reliable operation throughout the project lifecycle.
Related Product Recommendations
Thermal mass flow meters directly measure mass flow using the constant temperature difference method. Unlike volumetric flow meters, they do not require pressure or temperature compensation, reducing system complexity and improving accuracy in gas applications.
They are suitable for compressed air, nitrogen, oxygen, natural gas, biogas, and many industrial mixed gases. Proper calibration ensures optimal performance for specific gas compositions.
Yes. The sensor can operate up to 300°C, making it suitable for industrial furnace gas, process exhaust, and high-temperature gas monitoring applications.
Yes. It supports 4–20mA, pulse, frequency outputs, and digital communication via HART or MODBUS RS-485 for integration into PLC, DCS, and SCADA systems.
Explosion-proof models with Ex db IIC T6 Gb certification are available for use in hazardous industrial environments.
Key factors include gas type, pipe diameter, operating temperature, pressure, and required communication protocol. Instrava provides engineering support for proper sizing and configuration.
Why Choose Instrava
By choosing Instrava, you gain a partner with a deep understanding of industrial applications and the expertise to meet today’s operational challenges.
Our role extends beyond products—we support your success through dependable solutions and long-term commitment.
Engineering-Driven Innovation
Innovation at Instrava is guided by real industrial requirements. We continuously refine our technologies to address evolving operational challenges, ensuring practical and reliable performance in demanding environments.
Application-Specific Customization
We provide engineering-level customization to match specific process conditions. From measurement range and materials to output signals and installation options, our solutions are configured to fit real applications.
Proven Quality and Reliability
Quality and reliability are fundamental to every Instrava product. Manufactured under strict quality control and thoroughly tested, our instruments deliver accurate, stable, and long-term performance.
Global Capability with Local Support
Instrava combines global engineering expertise with responsive local support, ensuring our partners benefit from internationally aligned technology and timely regional service.
Comprehensive Product Portfolio
Our broad portfolio of measurement and control instruments enables us to address a wide range of industrial needs, providing integrated solutions from a single, reliable source.
Partner-Oriented Engineering Support
We work closely with our partners from technical consultation to after-sales support. Our focus is on delivering solutions that create lasting value and support long-term operational success.
Oval Gear Flow Meter: Why It Still Dominates High-Viscosity Flow Measurement in Modern Automation
The Quiet Persistence of Oval Gear Flow Meters In an era where smart sensors, digital twins, and AI-driven instrumentation dominate...
Portable Ultrasonic Flow Meters – Accurate Industrial Flow Measurement
Portable Ultrasonic Flow Meters – Accurate Industrial Flow Measurement | Instrava Portable Ultrasonic Flow Meters Overview Portable ultrasonic flow meters...
