Avoiding jetting in mass flow controllers: the vena contracta High flow mass flow controllers always need downstream valves and high flow meters can’t be plumbed with small process ports. The reason for this is jetting. But what is jetting? What causes it? Why is it important for Alicat devices in particular and why is […]
Valve sizing and tuning for optimal control Valve options Choosing the right valve size is critical to ensuring that your process can achieve full-scale flow under your range of expected process conditions. A properly sized valve will give your mass flow controller or pressure controller stable control throughout the entire flow range. Your instrument will […]
IP ratings and conformal coatings Alicat devices are available with conformal coatings and a variety of IP ratings for protection from dust and water. This article details the available options for Alicat devices and briefly explains the purpose of each. Conformal coating (-CC build option) High-humidity and condensation due to sudden temperature changes can damage […]
How we use your application info to build a custom device Alicat mass flow and pressure controllers and meters are custom built to meet specific application needs. Some of the most common considerations when building a custom Alicat solution include: Application Flow rate Fluid type Inlet and outlet pressures Process temperature Analog/digital communication Process threads […]
Communication options for Alicat instruments Every Alicat device is equipped with at least one of the following communication protocols: Analog (4-20 mA, 0-10 Vdc, 0-5 Vdc, or 1-5 Vdc) ASCII over RS-232 or RS-485 Modbus RTU Profibus DeviceNet EtherNet/IP Modbus TCP/IP EtherCAT In this article, we present an overview of these communication protocols including electrical […]
Digital flow totalizers and analog alarms Digital flow totalizer Alicat’s integrated digital flow totalizer (TOT) is an optional function that can be used to precisely measure the total amount of gas or liquid that passes through your Alicat flow meter or flow controller. Adding a totalizer to a controller means you can use batch mode […]
Integrated potentiometer control (IPC) The integrated potentiometer (IPC) is an optional feature available on Alicat flow controllers that allows for control of the device setpoint via a knob on top of the unit. The IPC knob can be used to easily control the full scale analog input range of the device. The new setpoint displays […]
Process ports and fittings Selecting the best process port or fitting is just as critical as selecting the correct pressure or flow technology for your specific application. Although Alicat’s devices are typically shipped with either M5 or NPT female process ports, Alicat offers many additional customization options, depending on your requirements. NPT process ports and […]
Backlit displays for flow and pressure instruments Standard Alicat devices have an 6-button, monochrome backlit display that simultaneously shows all process variables. Color displays and remote, panel-mount displays are also available. Integrated display options Backlit color TFT display The backlit color TFT display shows measured flow parameters in white with green engineering unit labels. Parameters […]
CSA/ATEX certifications for hazardous environments Our CSA Class 1 Division 2 (ATEX Class 1 Zone 2) certified devices are approved for use in environments where ignitable gases are present. The inherently low power consumption of Alicat instruments allows for monitoring of flow and pressure in hazardous environments without losing critical features like our multi-parameter display. […]