Editorial Technical Reference

Flow Sensor

This page explains how Flow Sensor is classified within Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A device that measures the flow rate of liquid fertilizer in a precision injection system.

Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Flow Sensor

Definition
The Flow Sensor is a component used in precision liquid fertilizer injection systems. It continuously monitors the volumetric or mass flow rate of liquid fertilizer as it moves through distribution lines. By providing real-time data, it supports precise application rates, accurate dosing, and automated control of the injection process. The sensor operates by measuring the physical effect of the moving fluid—such as turbine rotation, ultrasonic wave propagation, thermal dispersion, or differential pressure across an orifice—and converts this measurement into an electrical signal proportional to the flow rate. This signal is transmitted to the system's control unit for processing and feedback. The sensor is designed for use with liquid fertilizers and features wetted parts made of stainless steel (grade 316L per ASTM A240) for corrosion resistance, with polymer housing and seals. It is available in connection sizes DN15 to DN50 (ISO 7005) with flanged or threaded options. Key parameters include a flow range of 0.5–50 L/min, accuracy of ±1.0% of reading, repeatability of ±0.25% of reading, operating pressure of 1.0–1.6 MPa, fluid temperature range of -10 to 60°C, ambient temperature range of -20 to 70°C, supply voltage of 24 V DC ±10%, output signal of 4–20 mA, ingress protection of IP65–IP67 (IEC 60529), and weight of 1.5–3.5 kg. These values are reference ranges; verify model-specific specifications with the manufacturer. The sensor is suitable for outdoor and washdown environments. It is intended for integration with PLCs via analog output. Always confirm that the selected model meets the requirements of your specific application, including flow rate, pressure, temperature, and chemical compatibility.
Working Principle
The Flow Sensor measures the flow rate of liquid fertilizer by detecting the physical effect of the moving fluid. Common methods include turbine rotation, where the fluid drives a rotor whose speed is proportional to flow; ultrasonic waves, which measure transit time differences; thermal dispersion, which senses heat transfer; or differential pressure across an orifice. The sensor converts the measured effect into an electrical signal (typically 4–20 mA) that is proportional to the flow rate. This signal is sent to the control unit, which uses it for monitoring and feedback control. The sensor requires a stable power supply (24 V DC) and proper installation to ensure accurate readings. Calibration may be needed for specific fluid properties.
Common Materials
Stainless Steel (wetted parts), Polymers (housing/seals), Electronic components (sensor element, PCB)
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Flow Range0.5–50 L/minSelect based on expected application flow rates
Accuracy±1.0 % of readingHigher accuracy for precise dosing
Repeatability±0.25 % of readingEnsures consistent injection
Fluid Temperature-10–60 °COutside range may affect sensor accuracy
Ambient Temperature-20–70 °CFor electronics housing
Supply Voltage24 ±10% V DCReverse polarity protected
Output Signal4–20 mAAnalog output for PLC integration
Ingress ProtectionIP65–IP67Suitable for outdoor and washdownIEC 60529
Material (Wetted Parts)316LCorrosion resistant for fertilizersASTM A240
Connection SizeDN15–DN50Flanged or threaded optionsISO 7005
Weight1.5–3.5 kgDepends on size and material

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Sensor Element/Probe Part
    Directly interacts with the fluid to detect flow (e.g., turbine blade, ultrasonic transducer, thermal sensor)
    Material: Stainless steel, ceramic, or specialized polymer
  • Housing/Body Part
    Encases the sensor element and provides connection points to the fluid line
    Material: Stainless steel, brass, or engineered plastic
  • Signal Transmitter/Converter
    Converts the raw sensor signal into a standardized output signal for the control system
    Material: Electronic components on a PCB within a sealed enclosure

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: 0 to 10 bar
flow rate: 0.1 to 100 L/min
temperature: 0°C to 80°C
slurry concentration: Up to 20% solids by weight
Media Compatibility
✓ Liquid fertilizers (ammonium nitrate, urea solutions) ✓ Water-based nutrient solutions ✓ Agricultural chemical mixtures with pH 4-9
Unsuitable: Abrasive slurries with high particulate content (>20% solids or particles >200 microns)
Sizing Data Required
  • Required flow rate range (minimum and maximum)
  • Pipe diameter and connection type
  • Required accuracy and response time

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Sensor drift
Cause: Accumulation of debris or scaling on sensing elements, or electronic component degradation due to temperature fluctuations and aging
Mechanical obstruction
Cause: Build-up of particulate matter or biological growth within the flow path, or physical damage from foreign objects in the fluid stream
Maintenance Indicators
  • Erratic or inconsistent flow readings compared to system expectations
  • Audible clicking, grinding, or unusual vibrations from the sensor housing
Engineering Tips
  • Implement regular calibration schedules and install upstream filtration to protect sensing elements from contaminants
  • Ensure proper installation with adequate straight pipe runs before and after the sensor to maintain laminar flow conditions

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 5167: Measurement of fluid flow by means of pressure differential devices ANSI/ASME MFC-3M: Measurement of Fluid Flow in Pipes Using Orifice, Nozzle, and Venturi DIN EN 60534-2-1: Industrial-process control valves - Part 2-1: Flow capacity - Sizing equations for fluid flow under installed conditions

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Flow rate accuracy: +/-1.5% of reading
  • Pressure rating: +/-5% of specified maximum operating pressure
Quality Inspection
  • Leak test: Pressure decay or bubble emission test per ISO 15848
  • Calibration verification: Flow loop comparison against NIST-traceable standards

Manufacturers of Flow Sensor

4 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

FBelec
Dongguan, Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Feejoy Technology (ShangHai) Co., Ltd.
Shanghai, CN
Also makes: Flow Meter
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Sino-Inst
Shanxi, CN
Also makes: Level Transmitter, Paddle Wheel, Flow Meter and 1 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Xi'an Yunyi Instrument Co., Ltd.
Shaanxi, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the operating principle of the Flow Sensor?

The sensor measures flow rate using methods like turbine, ultrasonic, thermal dispersion, or differential pressure. It converts the physical effect into an electrical signal proportional to flow.

What are the key specifications to verify?

Verify flow range, accuracy, repeatability, operating pressure, temperature ranges, supply voltage, output signal, ingress protection, material, connection size, and weight with the manufacturer.

Can the sensor be used with all liquid fertilizers?

The wetted parts are 316L stainless steel, which is corrosion-resistant for many fertilizers. However, chemical compatibility must be confirmed for your specific fertilizer.

How is the sensor integrated into a control system?

It provides a 4-20 mA analog output that can be connected to a PLC or control unit for monitoring and automated control.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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