DDM Sensors develops miniaturized flow meters for laboratory technology when compact designs, reproducible measurement results, and seamless system integration are required. The sensors are ideal for research, analytics, diagnostics, and microfluidics, where small flow rates must be reliably monitored and controlled. Depending on the medium and installation situation, various measuring principles and connection options are available.
How Flow Meters Work in Laboratory Technology
Flow meters detect the volumetric flow rate of a medium and output the measurement result as a pulse, voltage, current, or digital signal. For laboratory and analytical tasks, a suitable measuring range, fast response time, and stable repeatability are key. DDM Sensors provides compact sensor solutions for test benches, dosing systems, micropumps, and analytical setups.
Selection depends heavily on the medium, viscosity, temperature window, and electrical interface. Equally important is an installation solution that minimizes pressure drop and integrates cleanly into the system mechanically.
Selecting the Right Sensor for Laboratory Applications
In laboratory technology, system integration is just as critical as the measuring principle. Miniaturized flow meters are particularly advantageous when installation space is limited or low flow rates require precise monitoring.
- Ultrasonic Flow Meters: Ideal for water-like media and compact lab setups.
- Oval Gear Meters: The preferred option when volumetric measurement and higher viscosity are required.
- Turbine & Pelton Wheel Flow Meters: Complement the range where a robust, cost-effective solution is needed.
Key Selection Criteria
- Measuring Range: Matched to the actual process flow rate.
- Media Compatibility: Chemical resistance of wetted parts.
- Viscosity: Accounting for viscosity effects on measurement accuracy.
- Temperature Range: Designed for the specific temperature window of the lab application.
- Output Signal: Seamless integration into PLCs, controllers, or data acquisition systems.
Relevant Measuring Principles and Technologies
DDM Sensors covers multiple measuring principles for laboratory applications, allowing sensor selection to be tailored precisely to the task. The chosen principle influences measurement dynamics, media compatibility, and installation constraints.
Turbine Flow Meters
Turbine flow meters are suited for compact lab setups requiring a direct, dynamic signal. They integrate smoothly into test and dosing systems and handle small to large flow rates.
- Temperature Range: Standard design rated from −40 to +150 °C (optional up to +200 °C).
- Pressure Resistance: The FLT series offers pressure resistance up to 500 bar.
- Applications: Ideal for demanding laboratory and testing applications with elevated temperature or pressure requirements.
Oval Gear Meters (OG Series)
The OG series includes positive displacement oval gear meters for various flow ranges. The smaller sizes are particularly relevant for laboratory applications:
- OG1: Measures 0.01 to 1.0 l/min (at 30 cSt oil) / 0.1 to 1.0 l/min (water). Connections: 1/4″ BSP F or NPT F.
- OG2: Measures 0.03 to 4.0 l/min (at 30 cSt oil) / 0.15 to 4.0 l/min (water). Connections: 1/4″ BSP F or NPT F.
- OG3: Measures 0.05 to 10.0 l/min (at 30 cSt oil) / 0.5 to 10.0 l/min (water). Connections: 1/2″ BSP F or NPT F.
- Output Signals: NPN or PNP pulse output.
Ultrasonic Flow Meters
Ultrasonic flow meters are ideal for lab applications requiring non-contact measurement and minimal obstruction to the flow path. They excel at ultra-low flow rates and applications requiring low pressure drop.
Pelton Wheel / Paddlewheel Flow Meters
Pelton wheel flow meters provide a compact solution for simple laboratory and bypass applications. They are optimal when a cost-effective sensor with clear signal output is required in tight installation spaces.
Performance Features of DDM Sensors Flow Meters
The flow meters for laboratory use are designed for technical decision-makers who require reproducible measurement results in compact systems. In addition to the measured value, the ability to integrate them into existing laboratory setups is particularly crucial.
The key features are:
- Miniaturized designs for limited installation spaces
- Suitable for low flow rates and precise dosing tasks
- Various measuring principles for different media and viscosities
- Connection options for direct system integration
- Signal options for connection to control and evaluation systems
For technical evaluation, measurement accuracy, repeatability, response time, and long-term stability are the key parameters. For oval-wheel flowmeters, volumetric measurement is particularly relevant when reproducible results are required under varying media conditions. For ultrasonic solutions, non-contact measurement is the primary focus.
Application Areas in Laboratory Technology
Chromatography, HPLC, and UPLC
In chromatographic systems, stable and reproducible flow rates are critical, as even minor fluctuations can compromise separation efficiency. Miniaturized flow meters support the monitoring of eluent flows, bypass loops, and flush lines.
Microfluidics and Lab-on-a-Chip Systems
Microfluidic systems demand sensors with extremely compact dimensions and suitable measuring ranges for micro-flow rates. DDM Sensors flow meters integrate seamlessly into these setups.
Bioreactors, Fermentation, and Diagnostics
In bioreactors, fermentation processes, and diagnostic devices, reliable flow monitoring is essential for media feed, sample handling, and reagent dosing. Compact sensors with stable signal quality and high chemical resistance are key here.
DDM Sensors as Your Partner for Laboratory Applications
DDM Sensors supports technical engineering projects with standard products and custom OEM adaptations, including mechanical interfaces, electrical pinouts, and custom envelope dimensions. This is particularly valuable for medical and laboratory device manufacturers, system integrators, and R&D departments integrating sensors into existing instrument designs.
Request Technical Advice for Laboratory Flow Meters
Are you planning a laboratory application involving low flow rates, tight installation space, or specific media compatibility requirements? Contact our technical specialists to discuss measuring ranges, connections, and output signals, or explore our custom flow meters to find the ideal sensor series for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Flow Meters for Laboratory Applications
Which flow meters are best suited for laboratory technology?
Miniaturized flow meters are ideal when low flow rates and tight installation spaces are the main priorities. Depending on the medium and task, ultrasonic, oval gear, turbine, or pelton wheel flow meters can be selected.
What measuring ranges are available in the OG Oval Gear series?
The OG1 covers 0.01 to 1.0 l/min (30 cSt oil) and 0.1 to 1.0 l/min (water). The OG2 covers 0.03 to 4.0 l/min (30 cSt oil) and 0.15 to 4.0 l/min (water). The OG3 ranges from 0.05 to 10.0 l/min (30 cSt oil) and 0.5 to 10.0 l/min (water).
Which connection and signal combinations are relevant for lab applications?
The OG1 and OG2 feature 1/4″ BSP F or NPT F ports, while the OG3 features 1/2″ BSP F or NPT F. Available outputs include NPN/PNP pulse or analog voltage signals.