Note: anti-strong-disturbance signal processing method of vortex flowmeter with two sensors

Area of Science:

• Engineering
• Signal Processing
• Instrumentation

Background:

• Vortex flowmeters face challenges with strong pipe vibration noise overwhelming flow rate signals.
• Existing digital signal processing methods fail when noise power exceeds flow rate signal power.
• Accurate flow measurement is crucial in industrial processes, necessitating robust solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an anti-strong-disturbance signal processing method for vortex flowmeters.
• To enable reliable flow rate measurement even in the presence of severe pipe vibration.
• To improve the accuracy and applicability of vortex flowmeters in noisy environments.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a vortex flowmeter equipped with two piezoelectric sensors: one for flow rate and vibration, and another primarily for vibration.
• Developed a combined signal processing approach integrating frequency-domain subtraction and frequency-variance calculation algorithms.
• Implemented the algorithm in real-time using an ultralow power micro control unit (MCU).

Main Results:

• The proposed method successfully identifies the flow rate frequency amidst strong pipe vibration noise.
• Experimental results demonstrate correct flow rate frequency extraction when noise power is greater than signal power.
• The dual-sensor approach effectively distinguishes between flow rate signals and vibration disturbances.

Conclusions:

• The novel dual-sensor and signal processing method provides a robust solution for vortex flowmeters in high-noise conditions.
• This technique enhances the reliability and accuracy of flow measurement in challenging industrial environments.
• The real-time implementation on an MCU makes the solution practical for process instrumentation.