New semi three-dimensional approach for simulation of Lamb wave clamp-on ultrasonic gas flowmeter

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to numerically simulate the Lamb wave propagation through a clamp-on ultrasonic gas flowmeter (UGF) in contact mode, using a new semi three-dimensional approach. Moreover, experimental and analytical modeling results for transit time difference method have been used to confirm the simulation results at different gas flow velocities from 0.3 to 2.4 m/s. Design/methodology/approach The new semi three-dimensional approach involves the simulation of the flow field of the gas in a three-dimensional model and subsequently the simulation of wave generation, propagation and reception in a two-dimensional (2D) model. Moreover, the analytical model assumes that the wave transitions occur in a 2D mode. Findings The new approach is a semi three-dimensional approach used in this work, has better accuracy than a complete 2D simulation while maintaining the computing time and costs approximately constant. It is faster and less expensive than a complete 3D simulation and more accurate than a complete 2D simulation. It was concluded that the new approach could be extended to simulate all types of ultrasonic gas and non-gas flowmeters, even under harsh conditions. Originality/value In this work, a new approach for the numerical simulation of all types of ultrasonic flowmeters is introduced. It was used for simulation of a Lamb wave ultrasonic flow meter in contact mode.

Influence of Flow Disturbances behind the 90° Bend on the Indications of the Ultrasonic Flow Meter with Clamp-On Sensors on Pipelines

“…Such small measurements also indicate the place of sensors installation on the perimeter of the pipeline for which the measurement error will be the smallest. Additionally, in comparison with other works on this subject [ 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 ], using laser anemometry methods, velocity lumps were determined at particular distances from the disturbance, and velocity projections from those lumps on the appropriate plane represented velocity profiles and indicated the distances from the disturbance in which those profiles stabilize. 90° bend was selected because it is the most common element of the flow system, whereas in ultrasound measurements method of two ultrasound wave transitions (V method) was used, also the most frequently performed in the measurement practice [ 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 ].…”