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More efficiency through automation: flow measurement with FMQ

Precise flow control is in a variety of applications in dairies, breweries, and beverage processing plants, an efficient way to automize processes and to save resources. However, many companies are reluctant to use such sensors due to the purchase and installation cost. With the FMQ electromagnetic flowmeter, Anderson-Negele is realigning the cost-benefit ratio. Especially in times of rising prices for raw materials, product and energy, a closer look at all processes is worthwhile.

25 Jul 2022

As an inexpensive and compact all-arounder, the electromagnetic FMQ is a versatile, robust, and reliable flowmeter for all conductive media. The performance spectrum is tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized companies in hygienic food processing. In addition to liquids, all slurries, pastes or cream-like products can also be accurately measured. When media change in a process plant, the automatic signal processing of the FMQ adjusts itself to the new product and always provides correct readings.

With FMQ, processes that were previously controlled manually or timed can be automated easily. With an operating range from 8 gal/hr to 169,000 gal/hr and a measuring accuracy of ± 5 % ± 2 mm/s, it covers most applications, including dosing, filling, and CIP process control.

The FMQ is equipped with a digital IO-Link interface in addition to a 4...20 mA output. This dual communication, called "Flex-Hybrid Technology" at Anderson-Negele, is offered at no extra charge, and allows either analog or digital data transfer to the process controller. The combination of outputs is particularly advantageous if a company is planning a transition to digital data in the future but needs to interface with an analog output today.
Unlike other flowmeters requiring specialized interfaces to configure the meter at commissioning, IO-Link has the advantage that parameterization is made child's play by an IO-Link master with the appropriate software. In cases where IO-Link is used directly to integrate this can be done remotely from the control center, an external computer or even via a smartphone app with secure access.

In summary, the FMQ provides the following features:

• Extremely compact: Minimal size of measuring device and electronics for easy, vibration-insensitive integration in almost all applications.
• Extremely robust: All components are completely made of stainless-steel, so the FMQ can withstand even the toughest process conditions and the most intensive cleaning without any impact. In addition, the magnetic field coils of the measuring system are potted, so that even in very harsh environments with strong vibrations or pressure surges permanently reliable, precise measurement results are assured.
• Extremely reliable: Fully protected against moisture, corrosion, and vibration; vacuum-proof PFA measuring tube lining; process temperature up to 100 °C / 212 °F, CIP/SIP temperature up to 130 °C / 266 °F, suitable for pig cleaning.
• Always correct: The automatic empty tube detection and automatic signal processing always guarantee correct readings even when the media changes (e.g. milk/CIP).
• Simplest commissioning and operation: thanks to a user-friendly, rotatable display with optical pushbuttons, programming can be carried out quickly and easily on the display without opening the housing and without sensitive mechanical components. Alternatively, configuration can also be done via IO-Link, without a company-specific programming adapter.
• Easy installation due to manufacturer-independent process connection with aseptic flange. Flow meter sizes from ½” to 6”. The FMQ is available with butt-weld, ASME clamp or DIN clamp.

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