Fluid-Structure Coupling Effects in a Dual U-Tube Coriolis Mass Flow Meter

Area of Science:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Fluid Dynamics
• Manufacturing Processes

Background:

• Coriolis mass flowmeters (CMFs) are complex, customized devices with long lead times.
• High-degree fluid-structure coupling and precision manufacturing are critical.
• Current design and manufacturing processes can be time-consuming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present design considerations for a more time-efficient CMF design and manufacturing process.
• To simulate and experimentally validate the fluid-structure coupling dynamics of a dual U-tube CMF.
• To develop a simulation application for rapid design evaluation.

Main Methods:

• COMSOL simulation package used for fluid-structure coupling dynamics.
• Experimental validation of simulation results with a manufactured dual U-tube CMF.
• Development of a COMSOL-based simulation application.

Main Results:

• Dynamic balance is crucial to prevent zero drift in dual U-tube CMFs.
• Fluid viscosity can be determined via voice coil actuator current or pressure loss.
• The developed simulation application significantly shortens design and manufacturing time.

Conclusions:

• Optimized design considerations derived from simulation and experiments enhance CMF manufacturing.
• Accurate dynamic balance and viscosity determination are vital for CMF performance.
• The simulation application offers a practical tool for accelerating CMF product development.