Vacuum technology is an integral part of modern scientific and technological advancements, widely employed in various sectors of the economy. One prominent vacuum technology application is in the food industry, where vacuum packaging machines are utilized. By removing air from the packaging, vacuum sealing helps preserve food by inhibiting oxidation and extending its shelf life. In this blog, we will explore the role of the gas flow sensor FS1015 in gas flow detection within vacuum packaging machines.
Gas Flow Detection in Vacuum Packaging Machines:
Vacuum packaging machines are designed to automatically extract air from packaging bags, reaching the desired vacuum level before completing the sealing process. Additionally, these machines can introduce gases such as nitrogen or other gas mixtures before sealing the package. Monitoring gas flow during the vacuum process requires the inclusion of a flow control valve. In a vacuum state, the gas flow through the control valve is primarily determined by four variables: upstream and downstream pressure, gas flow temperature, and the pressure differential across the valve.
Characteristics of Gas Flow Measurement in Vacuum Conditions:
Low flow density: The low flow density in vacuum conditions limits the effectiveness of commonly used flow measurement devices such as vortex flow meters or ultrasonic flow meters. Vortex flow meters generate insufficient airflow thrust, while ultrasonic flow meters face impedance-matching difficulties.
Minimal pressure loss: Avoiding significant pressure losses when installing flow meters on vacuum pipelines is essential. Increased resistance due to the flow meter’s installation on the vacuum pipeline leads to higher power consumption, hindering energy efficiency. Consequently, orifice plate flow meters, turbine flow meters, and positive displacement flow meters are not suitable choices.
Leakage detection challenges: Detecting leaks becomes challenging when flow meters are installed on negative-pressure pipelines. Undetected leaks not only waste power but also compromise the internal gas environment.
Introducing the FS1015 Gas Mass Flow Sensor by Siargo:
To address the gas flow detection requirements in vacuum packaging machines, we recommend the FS1015CL gas mass flow sensor by Siargo, a renowned manufacturer based in the United States. The FS1015CL series is specifically designed for measuring and controlling various medical gases. This product employs micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) flow sensing chips and is suitable for clean gases. Its advantages include:
- Low cost.
- Easy installation.
- No need for temperature and pressure compensation.
- A viable alternative to traditional volume or differential pressure-based flow meters.
Key Features of the FS1015CL Gas Mass Flow Sensor:
High sensitivity: Based on the principle of thermal mass flow meters, the FS1015CL sensor can measure fluid flow rates as low as 8 mm/sec.
No bypass structure: The sensor ensures minimal pressure loss, optimizing the performance of the vacuum packaging machine.
Stable zero-point output: The sensor exhibits high stability in zero-point measurements.
Reusability: The sensor can be sterilized and reused after disinfection.
Automatic range switching: The sensor features a switch design that enables automatic range switching, enhancing measurement accuracy.
User-friendly interface: The sensor facilitates linear output and can be easily integrated into the host device’s user interface.
Technical Specifications of the FS1015CL Gas Mass Flow Sensor:
- Flow range: 0-100 / 0-150 SLPM
- Turn-down ratio: 100:1
- Accuracy: ±(1.5+0.2FS)%
- Repeatability: 0.25%
- Zero-point output drift: ±30 mV
- Output drift: ±0.12%/°C
- Response time: 8 ms
- Operating voltage: 5±1% Vdc
- Output: Linear, analog voltage 0.5-4.5 Vdc
- Flow pressure loss: 1300 Pa
- Operating pressure: 0.2 MPa
- Operating temperature: -10°C to +55°C
- Storage temperature: -20°C to +65°C
- Operating humidity: <95%RH (no icing or condensation)
- Electrical interface: 5-pin socket, AMP 103956-4
- Mechanical interface: ISO-15mm
- Calibration: Air, 20°C, 101.325 kPa
- Weight: 21.5 g
Conclusion:
Gas flow detection plays a crucial role in effectively operating vacuum packaging machines. The FS1015CL gas mass flow sensor by Siargo offers an ideal solution for accurately measuring gas flow rates in vacuum conditions. With its advanced MEMS technology, high sensitivity, low-pressure loss, and user-friendly features, the FS1015CL sensor ensures optimal performance and efficiency in vacuum packaging processes. By employing reliable gas flow sensors, manufacturers in the food industry can enhance their vacuum packaging operations, ensuring longer shelf life for their products while preserving their quality and freshness.
