In-line water-flow monitoring is used to continuously assess the movement of fluids through water-based coolant systems. When equipped with a solenoid valve, it is also possible for the device to autonomously switch off the flow at the source and eliminate the risk of flooding if another device in the flow system has failed. Water-flow monitors are routinely used to protect a range of laboratory products, including distillation instruments, ultraviolet lamps, and reflux extractors.
The Working Principle of Water-Flow Monitoring
A water-flow monitor is the sum of several laboratory products. The in-line component is a network of tubes housed within a Plexiglas block, which is connected to the flow system via an inlet. Typically, the water-flow monitor will be connected between laboratory products and the drainage outlet.
Outgoing water flow from the laboratory product’s cooling apparatus is divided either upwards through the vertical tube or horizontally through a small bypass capillary. The vertical flow of water flows down to the outlet by a wider overflow tube, while the capillary flow moves almost directly from the inlet to the outlet. This capillary is both the main restriction to flow in low flowing conditions, and a potential drain if water flow ceases. The hydrostatic head is monitored by a pressure switch integrated into the system, which turns the electrical outlets on or off if the pressure reaches pre-defined levels.
Water-Flow Monitors and Accessories
Open-system water flow monitors with two outlets are available from Glas-Col with flow capacities ranging from 0.1 – 2 l/minute. This enables accurate monitoring of water flow through drainage hoses from various laboratory products and coolant systems. Our bypass capillary is designed with an easy clean-out screw that enables you to remove the tube and insert obstructions to alter the flow of water and adjust the sensitivity of the device down to a range of a few ml/minute.
It is advisable to equip your water-flow monitor with an electromechanical solenoid valve and a pressure regulator to reduce the risk of damage to integral laboratory products in cases of overflow or mechanical failure. The solenoid valve uses the electrical signals of the pressure regulator to autonomously regulate the flow of water before it flows into your process apparatus or cooling system.
Glas-Col supplies two distinct solenoid valves that are compatible with our standard and Deluxe Model water-flow monitors.
Laboratory Products from Glas-Col
At Glas-Col, we provide a broad range of laboratory products suitable for an array of research and development applications. If you would like any more information about the capacities of our water-flow monitors, please feel free to contact us.