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Frequently Asked Questions - Industrial Instrument Selection & Application Guide

Q1: What media can electromagnetic flow meters measure?

Electromagnetic flow meters are suitable for conductive liquids with conductivity ≥5μS/cm, such as tap water, wastewater, acid/alkali/salt solutions, slurry, and pulp. They CANNOT measure gases, steam, deionized water, or oil-based non-conductive fluids. Widely used in chemical, water treatment, food & beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.

Q2: How to select the right pressure transmitter?

Key factors: (1) Range — upper limit should be 1.25~1.5× working pressure; (2) Accuracy — 0.075%, 0.1%, 0.25% available; (3) Output — 4-20mA/HART/RS485; (4) Process connection — M20×1.5, G1/2, flange, etc.; (5) Media compatibility — diffused silicon, capacitive, monocrystalline silicon sensors. Dirksen offers a full range of pressure transmitters for various applications.

Q3: Magnetic level gauge vs. radar level transmitter — what's the difference?

Magnetic level gauges are contact-type measurement: a float moves with liquid level, driving magnetic flaps to change color for visual indication. Best for clean liquids, no power required, low cost. Radar level transmitters are non-contact: emit microwave pulses and receive reflections. Suitable for high temperature, high pressure, corrosive, and viscous media. 80GHz FMCW radar achieves ±1mm accuracy.

Q4: Vortex flow meter vs. orifice plate — pros and cons?

Vortex flow meters: no moving parts, wide turndown ratio (1:10~1:20), low pressure loss, measures gas/steam/liquid. Requires straight pipe runs (10D upstream, 5D downstream). Orifice plates: simple structure, low cost, mature standards, but high pressure loss, narrow turndown (1:3~1:4), accuracy affected by wear. For clean media, prefer vortex; for dirty/viscous media, use electromagnetic or V-Cone.

Q5: Pt100 RTD vs. thermocouple — how to choose?

Pt100 RTDs are suitable for medium-low temperatures (-200°C to 500°C), with high accuracy, good linearity, and excellent long-term stability. Thermocouples work up to 1800°C with fast response but require cold junction compensation. For industrial measurement: below 500°C, prefer Pt100; above 500°C, use Type K or Type S thermocouples. Dirksen provides integrated temperature transmitters with direct 4-20mA output.

Q6: Pneumatic vs. electric control valves — which to choose?

Pneumatic control valves: ideal for explosion-proof areas, fast response speed, fail-safe (air-to-open/air-to-close), but require compressed air supply. Electric control valves: suitable where no air supply exists, high control accuracy, direct DCS/PLC integration, intelligent control. Consider: explosion-proof rating, accuracy requirements, response time, and maintenance convenience.

Q7: How to get a quote for Dirksen products?

Request a quote by: (1) Visiting our Contact page and submitting an inquiry with product model and parameters; (2) Calling +86-0517-86930968; (3) Emailing 25291658@qq.com with your process parameters (media, temperature, pressure, range, pipe size, etc.). Our engineers will provide a selection proposal and quotation within 24 hours.

Q8: How often should pH meters and conductivity meters be calibrated?

pH meters: recommended monthly calibration using standard buffer solutions (pH 4.01/6.86/9.18) for 2-point or 3-point calibration. Conductivity meters: every 3 months. In harsh conditions (high temperature, heavy contamination), shorten to weekly. Regular electrode cleaning and electrolyte replacement extends service life.

Q9: What is the minimum conductivity required for electromagnetic flow meters?

The medium must have conductivity ≥5μS/cm (standard) or ≥20μS/cm (remote/split type with long cable runs). Most industrial aqueous solutions, acids, alkalis, and salts meet this requirement. Ultra-pure water (<1μS/cm), oils, and gases cannot be measured by electromagnetic flow meters — consider ultrasonic or Coriolis alternatives.

Q10: Can magnetic level gauges be used for corrosive chemicals?

Yes. Select the corrosion-resistant variant (DKS-UHZ57F) with PTFE/PFA-lined body and titanium alloy or PTFE-coated float. This configuration handles strong acids (HCl, H2SO4), alkalis (NaOH), and organic solvents. For extreme corrosion, consult our engineers for material selection guidance.