A flow controller which is commonly referred to as a "mass flow controller" is a device designed to regulate the flow of liquids, gases, or other materials in a system. It ensures that the flow rate remains within desired limits, which is crucial for maintaining system efficiency and safety. Flow controllers can be found in various industrial applications, including industrial processes, water treatment systems, and HVAC systems.

How does a Flow Controller work?

The fluid enters from the inlet and flows through the sensor or the bypass. The sensor then detects the mass flow rate as a relative change in temperature and converted to an electric signal. This signal passes through the amplification, correction and comparison control circuits and put out as a voltage reading (e.g. 5V).

The comparison control circuit compares the flow rate electric signal to flow rate setting and sends the difference between the two readings to the valve driving circuit. Finally, the flow rate valve moves to adjust the flow rate actual to the flow rate setting so the flow controller is set to the correct level.

Benefits of Flow Controllers

• Cost Effective
• Maintain constant pressure whilst in use
• Less air consumption
• Reduce the cost on water and sewer bills
• Environmentally efficient
• Conserve up to 85% of the water that is used
• Long life and very durable

Types of Flow Controller

• Pneumatic Flow Controllers: They are used to adjust valves or other flow control. Specifically used where electrical signals may be hazardous.
• Electronic Flow Controllers: These offer precision and are used to adjust flow rates from the sensors.
• Motorised Flow Control Valves: Motorised actuators are used for their precision and applications where fine control is required.
• Thermal Mass Flow Controllers: These measure the flow and control using heat transfer. They are commonly used in high tech industries.
• Differential Pressure Flow Controllers: Often used in HVAC applications, and use pressure to measure and control flow.
• Coriolis Flow Controllers: These measure the mass flow rate passing through a vibrating tube, typically used in applications requiring precise mass flow measurement.

Browse the broad range of Flow Controllers RS Components have to offer from industry leading brands such as Burkert, Omron and ifm electronic.