In industrial settings—from semiconductor manufacturing’s ultra-clean water systems to chemical plants’ aggressive fluid lines—accurate flow measurement is critical, yet often challenged by factors like contamination risks, air bubbles, or cumbersome installation. Traditional flow meters (e.g., turbine or magnetic types) may fail here: they require contact with fluids (risking contamination or corrosion) or demand complex on-site calibration. Enter the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter—specifically the US300 Series— a transit-time ultrasonic solution engineered to solve these pain points. By leveraging non-contact technology, advanced signal processing, and factory-calibrated components, this flow meter delivers fast, accurate readings across clean to dirty liquids—all without zero-flow adjustment. This article answers the key question: What makes the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter US300 Series the go-to choice for demanding industrial applications? We’ll explore its measurement principle, standout features, technical advantages, and real-world value.
The Science Behind the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter: Transit-Time Technology
At the core of the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series) is the transit-time principle —a non-invasive method that eliminates direct fluid contact and ensures reliable measurement even in challenging conditions. Here’s how it works:
1. Non-Contact Transducer Design
Unlike magnetic flow meters (which require contact with conductive fluids) or Coriolis meters (with internal tubes), the US300 Series uses transducers clamped to the outer wall of the pipe. These transducers never touch the liquid inside, creating two critical benefits:
- No Contamination Risk: Ideal for ultra-clean applications like pharmaceutical water systems or semiconductor rinse cycles, where even tiny sensor particles could ruin products.
- No Corrosion: Perfect for aggressive fluids (e.g., acids, solvents) that would degrade metal sensors—common in chemical processing or wastewater treatment.
2. Transit-Time Difference for Flow Calculation
The US300 Series pairs two transducers that alternate between acting as ultrasonic transmitters and receivers. When measuring flow:
- Upstream Transmission (T₁): The ultrasonic signal travels against the fluid flow, taking longer to reach the opposite transducer (due to fluid resistance).
- Downstream Transmission (T₂): The signal travels with the fluid flow, arriving faster.
The time difference (ΔT = T₁ – T₂) is directly proportional to the fluid’s velocity. The flow meter then calculates volumetric flow rate by multiplying this velocity by the pipe’s cross-sectional area—derived from built-in measurements of pipe diameter and wall thickness (a standard feature of the US300 Series).
This principle ensures accuracy regardless of fluid properties like viscosity or conductivity— a major advantage over meters that rely on fluid-specific characteristics.
Standout Features of the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series)
The US300 Series isn’t just a basic flow meter—it’s packed with innovations that simplify installation, enhance performance, and reduce maintenance. These features make it a leader among Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter offerings:
1. Factory-Calibrated Transducers: No On-Site Zero Adjustment
One of the biggest headaches with traditional flow meters is on-site calibration, which requires stopping flow, adjusting sensors, and verifying zero-flow conditions. The US300 Series eliminates this with Sensor ROM technology:
- Each transducer is individually calibrated at the factory, with calibration data stored in a built-in ROM chip.
- For portable US300 models, the ROM is integrated into the transducer; for fixed installations, it syncs automatically with the main unit.
- This pre-calibration means no zero-flow adjustment is needed during installation—technicians can mount the transducers, power on the meter, and start measuring in minutes.
This cuts installation time by up to 50% compared to competitors, critical for time-sensitive projects like plant shutdown maintenance.
2. Improved Performance in Difficult Conditions: Noise Suppression for Air Bubbles
Air bubbles or suspended solids (e.g., in wastewater or pulp slurries) often disrupt ultrasonic signals, leading to inaccurate readings. The US300 Series solves this with a proprietary noise suppression + correlation detection system:
- The noise suppression filter blocks interference from bubbles, while correlation detection cross-references signal patterns to isolate valid ultrasonic data.
- This technology ensures reliable measurements even in “dirty” liquids— a game-changer for food processing (e.g., measuring fruit puree with pulp) or wastewater treatment (with solids-laden flow).
3. Fast Response: Real-Time Data for Dynamic Processes
Many ultrasonic flow meters struggle with slow response times, especially when using correlation methods (which require complex calculations). The Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter US300 Series uses original signal processing algorithms to speed up calculations without sacrificing accuracy. It delivers real-time flow data, making it ideal for:
- Batch processes (e.g., chemical dosing, where flow rates change rapidly).
- Leak detection (fast response identifies sudden flow drops that signal pipe leaks).
- Quality control (e.g., ensuring consistent flow of coating fluids in automotive manufacturing).
4. Versatile Functionality for Diverse Needs
The US300 Series is designed to adapt to different industrial setups, with standard features that add value without extra costs:
- Two Flow-Input Channels: Monitor two separate pipes simultaneously (e.g., two parallel wastewater lines), reducing the need for multiple meters.
- Dual Current Outputs: Transmit both flow rate and sound velocity data to control systems (e.g., DCS or PLCs)—sound velocity can also indicate fluid composition changes (e.g., concentration shifts in chemical mixtures).
- Built-In Data Logging: Stores up to 100,000 measurement values, enabling trend analysis (e.g., tracking daily flow patterns in water treatment plants) or compliance reporting.
- Wall Thickness Measurement: A standard function (wall thickness probes sold separately) ensures accurate pipe cross-sectional area calculations—critical for non-standard pipe sizes or worn pipes.
- Extended Battery Life (Portable Models): Lasts up to 14 hours on a single charge, perfect for field inspections (e.g., checking flow in remote pipeline segments).
Technical Specifications: Ensuring Accuracy and Reliability
Yokogawa’s commitment to transparency is evident in the US300 Series’ detailed specifications, which guarantee performance across industrial use cases:
| Parameter | Specification |
|--------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Measurement Principle | Transit-time ultrasonic (non-contact, clamp-on transducers) |
| Fluid Compatibility | Clean to dirty liquids; ultra-clean fluids; aggressive/corrosive liquids |
| Pipe Material Support | Metal, plastic, glass (any material that transmits ultrasonic signals) |
| Pipe Size Range | 0.5–12 inches (15–300 mm) for standard transducers; larger sizes with adapters|
| Flow Velocity Range | 0.01–10 m/s (0.03–33 ft/s) |
| Accuracy | ±1% of measured value (for clean liquids); ±2% for liquids with bubbles/solids|
| Response Time | <1 second (fast mode) |
| Power Options | AC (100–240 V) for fixed models; rechargeable battery (14-hour life) for portable |
| Data Output | RS232 port (data transfer); dual 4–20 mA current outputs (flow + sound velocity) |
| Data Logging | Up to 100,000 values (time-stamped) |
These specs confirm the US300 Series’ ability to handle everything from low-flow precision measurements (e.g., 0.01 m/s in laboratory settings) to high-flow industrial applications (e.g., 10 m/s in chemical pipelines).
Real-World Applications of the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series)
The US300 Series’ versatility makes it indispensable across industries, solving unique flow measurement challenges:
1. Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, ultra-clean water (e.g., WFI—Water for Injection) is critical for drug production. The US300 Series’ non-contact transducers prevent contamination, while factory calibration ensures compliance with FDA and EMA standards. It’s also used to measure flow in sterile solvent dosing, where accuracy directly impacts batch quality.
2. Chemical Processing
Aggressive fluids like sulfuric acid or caustic soda would corrode traditional metal sensors. The US300 Series’ clamp-on design avoids contact, and its noise suppression handles bubbles from chemical reactions—ensuring reliable flow data for reactor feeding or waste treatment.
3. Food & Beverage
Viscous or particle-laden fluids (e.g., tomato sauce, milk with cream) are hard to measure with traditional meters. The US300 Series’ non-contact design prevents fouling, and its fast response tracks flow during filling operations—reducing product waste from overfilling or underfilling.
4. Water & Wastewater Treatment
Municipal wastewater plants deal with solids-laden flow and air bubbles, which disrupt many meters. The US300 Series’ noise suppression ensures accurate readings for process control (e.g., adjusting chemical doses) and compliance reporting (e.g., tracking effluent flow to rivers).
5. Semiconductor Manufacturing
Rinse water for silicon wafers must be ultra-pure, and even tiny sensor particles could cause defects. The US300 Series’ non-contact transducers eliminate this risk, while its accuracy ensures consistent flow for uniform wafer cleaning.
Why Choose the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series) Over Competitors?
The US300 Series stands out for three reasons that directly impact operational efficiency and cost:
1. No Downtime for Calibration: Factory-calibrated transducers mean no flow stoppages for zero adjustment—critical for 24/7 operations like power plants.
2. Low Maintenance: Non-contact design eliminates sensor fouling or corrosion, cutting maintenance costs by up to 70% compared to contact-based meters.
3. Versatility: A single US300 meter can handle clean, dirty, and aggressive fluids—reducing inventory costs and simplifying training for technicians.
Conclusion: The Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series)—A Smart Investment
When asked, “How does the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series) redefine liquid flow measurement?” the answer lies in its ability to solve the unsolvable. It eliminates contamination risks, handles difficult fluids, and simplifies installation—all while delivering the accuracy and reliability industrial operations demand.
For pharmaceutical plants needing sterile measurement, chemical facilities dealing with corrosive fluids, or water treatment plants managing dirty flow, the US300 Series is more than a flow meter—it’s a strategic tool for compliance, efficiency, and cost savings. Backed by Yokogawa’s global service network and decades of ultrasonic technology expertise, the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter US300 Series proves why it’s the top choice for modern industrial flow measurement. Whether you need a portable meter for field inspections or a fixed system for continuous process control, the US300 Series delivers performance you can trust.
How Does the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series) Redefine Liquid Flow Measurement?
In industrial settings—from semiconductor manufacturing’s ultra-clean water systems to chemical plants’ aggressive fluid lines—accurate flow measurement is critical, yet often challenged by factors like contamination risks, air bubbles, or cumbersome installation. Traditional flow meters (e.g., turbine or magnetic types) may fail here: they require contact with fluids (risking contamination or corrosion) or demand complex on-site calibration. Enter the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter—specifically the US300 Series— a transit-time ultrasonic solution engineered to solve these pain points. By leveraging non-contact technology, advanced signal processing, and factory-calibrated components, this flow meter delivers fast, accurate readings across clean to dirty liquids—all without zero-flow adjustment. This article answers the key question: What makes the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter US300 Series the go-to choice for demanding industrial applications? We’ll explore its measurement principle, standout features, technical advantages, and real-world value.
The Science Behind the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter: Transit-Time Technology
At the core of the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series) is the transit-time principle—a non-invasive method that eliminates direct fluid contact and ensures reliable measurement even in challenging conditions. Here’s how it works:
1. Non-Contact Transducer Design
Unlike magnetic flow meters (which require contact with conductive fluids) or Coriolis meters (with internal tubes), the US300 Series uses transducers *clamped to the outer wall of the pipe. These transducers never touch the liquid inside, creating two critical benefits:
- No Contamination Risk: Ideal for ultra-clean applications like pharmaceutical water systems or semiconductor rinse cycles, where even tiny sensor particles could ruin products.
- No Corrosion: Perfect for aggressive fluids (e.g., acids, solvents) that would degrade metal sensors—common in chemical processing or wastewater treatment.
2. Transit-Time Difference for Flow Calculation
The US300 Series pairs two transducers that alternate between acting as ultrasonic transmitters and receivers. When measuring flow:
- Upstream Transmission (T₁): The ultrasonic signal travels against the fluid flow, taking longer to reach the opposite transducer (due to fluid resistance).
- Downstream Transmission (T₂): The signal travels with the fluid flow, arriving faster.
The time difference (ΔT = T₁ – T₂) is directly proportional to the fluid’s velocity. The flow meter then calculates volumetric flow rate by multiplying this velocity by the pipe’s cross-sectional area—derived from built-in measurements of pipe diameter and wall thickness (a standard feature of the US300 Series).
This principle ensures accuracy regardless of fluid properties like viscosity or conductivity— a major advantage over meters that rely on fluid-specific characteristics.
Standout Features of the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series)
The US300 Series isn’t just a basic flow meter—it’s packed with innovations that simplify installation, enhance performance, and reduce maintenance. These features make it a leader among Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter offerings:
1. Factory-Calibrated Transducers: No On-Site Zero Adjustment
One of the biggest headaches with traditional flow meters is on-site calibration, which requires stopping flow, adjusting sensors, and verifying zero-flow conditions. The US300 Series eliminates this with Sensor ROM technology:
- Each transducer is individually calibrated at the factory, with calibration data stored in a built-in ROM chip.
- For portable US300 models, the ROM is integrated into the transducer; for fixed installations, it syncs automatically with the main unit.
- This pre-calibration means no zero-flow adjustment is needed during installation—technicians can mount the transducers, power on the meter, and start measuring in minutes.
This cuts installation time by up to 50% compared to competitors, critical for time-sensitive projects like plant shutdown maintenance.
2. Improved Performance in Difficult Conditions: Noise Suppression for Air Bubbles
Air bubbles or suspended solids (e.g., in wastewater or pulp slurries) often disrupt ultrasonic signals, leading to inaccurate readings. The US300 Series solves this with a proprietary noise suppression + correlation detection system:
- The noise suppression filter blocks interference from bubbles, while correlation detection cross-references signal patterns to isolate valid ultrasonic data.
- This technology ensures reliable measurements even in “dirty” liquids— a game-changer for food processing (e.g., measuring fruit puree with pulp) or wastewater treatment (with solids-laden flow).
3. Fast Response: Real-Time Data for Dynamic Processes
Many ultrasonic flow meters struggle with slow response times, especially when using correlation methods (which require complex calculations). The Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter US300 Series uses original signal processing algorithms to speed up calculations without sacrificing accuracy. It delivers real-time flow data, making it ideal for:
- Batch processes (e.g., chemical dosing, where flow rates change rapidly).
- Leak detection (fast response identifies sudden flow drops that signal pipe leaks).
- Quality control (e.g., ensuring consistent flow of coating fluids in automotive manufacturing).
4. Versatile Functionality for Diverse Needs
The US300 Series is designed to adapt to different industrial setups, with standard features that add value without extra costs:
- Two Flow-Input Channels: Monitor two separate pipes simultaneously (e.g., two parallel wastewater lines), reducing the need for multiple meters.
- Dual Current Outputs: Transmit both flow rate and sound velocity data to control systems (e.g., DCS or PLCs)—sound velocity can also indicate fluid composition changes (e.g., concentration shifts in chemical mixtures).
- Built-In Data Logging: Stores up to 100,000 measurement values, enabling trend analysis (e.g., tracking daily flow patterns in water treatment plants) or compliance reporting.
- Wall Thickness Measurement: A standard function (wall thickness probes sold separately) ensures accurate pipe cross-sectional area calculations—critical for non-standard pipe sizes or worn pipes.
- Extended Battery Life (Portable Models): Lasts up to 14 hours on a single charge, perfect for field inspections (e.g., checking flow in remote pipeline segments).
Technical Specifications: Ensuring Accuracy and Reliability
Yokogawa’s commitment to transparency is evident in the US300 Series’ detailed specifications, which guarantee performance across industrial use cases:
| Parameter | Specification |
|--------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Measurement Principle | Transit-time ultrasonic (non-contact, clamp-on transducers) |
| Fluid Compatibility | Clean to dirty liquids; ultra-clean fluids; aggressive/corrosive liquids |
| Pipe Material Support | Metal, plastic, glass (any material that transmits ultrasonic signals) |
| Pipe Size Range | 0.5–12 inches (15–300 mm) for standard transducers; larger sizes with adapters|
| Flow Velocity Range | 0.01–10 m/s (0.03–33 ft/s) |
| Accuracy | ±1% of measured value (for clean liquids); ±2% for liquids with bubbles/solids|
| Response Time | <1 second (fast mode) |
| Power Options | AC (100–240 V) for fixed models; rechargeable battery (14-hour life) for portable |
| Data Output | RS232 port (data transfer); dual 4–20 mA current outputs (flow + sound velocity) |
| Data Logging | Up to 100,000 values (time-stamped) |
These specs confirm the US300 Series’ ability to handle everything from low-flow precision measurements (e.g., 0.01 m/s in laboratory settings) to high-flow industrial applications (e.g., 10 m/s in chemical pipelines).
Real-World Applications of the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series)
The US300 Series’ versatility makes it indispensable across industries, solving unique flow measurement challenges:
1. Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, ultra-clean water (e.g., WFI—Water for Injection) is critical for drug production. The US300 Series’ non-contact transducers prevent contamination, while factory calibration ensures compliance with FDA and EMA standards. It’s also used to measure flow in sterile solvent dosing, where accuracy directly impacts batch quality.
2. Chemical Processing
Aggressive fluids like sulfuric acid or caustic soda would corrode traditional metal sensors. The US300 Series’ clamp-on design avoids contact, and its noise suppression handles bubbles from chemical reactions—ensuring reliable flow data for reactor feeding or waste treatment.
3. Food & Beverage
Viscous or particle-laden fluids (e.g., tomato sauce, milk with cream) are hard to measure with traditional meters. The US300 Series’ non-contact design prevents fouling, and its fast response tracks flow during filling operations—reducing product waste from overfilling or underfilling.
4. Water & Wastewater Treatment
Municipal wastewater plants deal with solids-laden flow and air bubbles, which disrupt many meters. The US300 Series’ noise suppression ensures accurate readings for process control (e.g., adjusting chemical doses) and compliance reporting (e.g., tracking effluent flow to rivers).
5. Semiconductor Manufacturing
Rinse water for silicon wafers must be ultra-pure, and even tiny sensor particles could cause defects. The US300 Series’ non-contact transducers eliminate this risk, while its accuracy ensures consistent flow for uniform wafer cleaning.
US300PM Performance | |
Fluid | Liquid with turbidity < 10,000 mg/litter, fluid sound velocity 800 to 3,500 m/s) |
Measured values | Volume flow, mass flow (by setting density), flow velocity, sound speed in fluid, pipe thickness (when optional wall thickness probe is provided) |
Pipe size | 25 to 6,500 mm |
Pipe material | Carbon steel, stainless steel, gray cast iron, ductile iron, copper, glass, PVC, etc. |
Flow velocity range | 0.01 to 25 m/s |
Fluid temperature range | -30 deg to +130 deg C. (general use) |
-30 deg to +200 deg C. (high-temperature use) | |
Accuracy | 1% to 3% of reading (depends on application) |
Straight pipe run upstream | More than 10 D (depends on piping conditions) |
Main unit construction | |
Housing material | Aluminum (powder coated) |
Water/dust proof | IP54 |
Dimensions (HxWxD) | 115 mm x 258 mm x 268 mm (without handle) |
Weight | Approx. 3.9 kg |
Transducer construction | |
Case material | Stainless steel SUS316 Ti |
Water/dust proof | IP65 (general purpose), IP67 (immersible) |
Functions | |
Calculation for two flow inputs | Two values from average (for two path measurement), sum, or difference of channel A and channel B inputs are readily available |
Time-programmable measurement | Automatic start and stop of measurement using internal clock. Can be used with data logging or communication function. |
Parameter setting storage | Storage of pipe and fluid parameters (maximum of 80 different settings) |
Sound velocity measurement | Measurement of sound velocity in liquid |
Why Choose the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series) Over Competitors?
The US300 Series stands out for three reasons that directly impact operational efficiency and cost:
1. No Downtime for Calibration: Factory-calibrated transducers mean no flow stoppages for zero adjustment—critical for 24/7 operations like power plants.
2. Low Maintenance: Non-contact design eliminates sensor fouling or corrosion, cutting maintenance costs by up to 70% compared to contact-based meters.
3. Versatility: A single US300 meter can handle clean, dirty, and aggressive fluids—reducing inventory costs and simplifying training for technicians.
## Conclusion: The Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series)—A Smart Investment
When asked, “How does the Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter (US300 Series) redefine liquid flow measurement?” the answer lies in its ability to solve the unsolvable. It eliminates contamination risks, handles difficult fluids, and simplifies installation—all while delivering the accuracy and reliability industrial operations demand.
For pharmaceutical plants needing sterile measurement, chemical facilities dealing with corrosive fluids, or water treatment plants managing dirty flow, the US300 Series is more than a flow meter—it’s a strategic tool for compliance, efficiency, and cost savings. Backed by Yokogawa’s global service network and decades of ultrasonic technology expertise, the **Yokogawa Ultrasonic Flow Meter** US300 Series proves why it’s the top choice for modern industrial flow measurement. Whether you need a portable meter for field inspections or a fixed system for continuous process control, the US300 Series delivers performance you can trust.