What's described as a next-generation spring-loaded inline variable area meter bringing unrivalled accuracy to steam metering has been launched by Spirax Sarco in the form of its TVA steam flow meter.
It's not just about absolute accuracy: TVA offers a 50:1 turndown – well above the usual 20:1. Hence the company's suggestion that it be used in monitoring and targeting (M&T) schemes to bolster real steam energy savings.
Additionally, it doesn't need much space for installation – just six pipe diameters of straight pipe upstream and three downstream. Compare that to vortex flowmeters, which typically need 15 upstream and five down.
Incidentally, TVA is also a stand-alone unit that integrates the flow sensing device, temperature sensor, connection accessories and flow computer. So there is no need for external equipment – making installation, set-up and commissioning relatively fast.
In brief detail, TVA uses a profiled stainless steel cone with a large, smooth surface area plated in chromium to resist erosion from wet steam. There is a choice of 4—20 mA and pulse outputs for integration with energy management and control systems, and it comes in DN50, DN80 and DN100 sizes and may be used in steam systems up to 32 bar g.
