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The difference between Mass Flow Meters and Mass Flow Controllers

Many fluid control applications require accurate flow measurements to ensure the right gas is in the right place at the right time. Sometimes, gas flow rate measurements simply aren’t enough and an added layer of control is required. All of which comes down to hardware. Here, Bürkert explains the difference between a Mass Flow Meter (MFM) and a Mass Flow Controller (MFC), as well as why you should choose one of our MFM/MFC devices.

mass flow controllers

The main difference between a Mass Flow Meter (MFM) and a Mass Flow Controller (MFC) is that an MFM simply measures the gas flow passing through the device. It is ostensibly a sensor. However, an MFC not only measures the gas passing through the device but it also controls it. Using a proportional control solenoid valve and an integrated PID controller allows you to vary the amount of gas supplied to a process.

 

6 benefits of Bürkert MFMs and MFCs

With more than 70 years of fluid control pedigree to our name, you can be certain that our MFM and MFC devices are manufactured to the highest standards of German engineering. As such, you can expect a huge range of beneficial features inbuilt, including the following six advantages of choosing Bürkert products. 

1. Laminar flow elements

All of our flow measurement devices benefit from a laminar flow element. This eradicates the need for flow conditioning on the inlet and outlet of the device, which means no straight pipe runs are required before or after the device. As a result, devices can be mounted in smaller space envelopes, with zero design restrictions.

2. Three unique sensors

We offer three different types of thermal mass flow sensor – MEMS, inline and capillary – each of which has its own unique features:

  • MEMS sensors – Located in contact with the medium for very fast response times, MEMS sensors exhibit minimal sensitivity to humidity or particles in the gas. They are suitable for low to middle gas flow rates.
  • Inline sensors – Mounted in direct contact to the medium, with very low pressure drop, inline sensors also have little sensitivity to particles or humidity. They are suitable for high gas flows.
  • Capillary sensors – This type of thermal mass flow sensor can be used on aggressive gases because the sensing element is not in direct contact with the medium passing through the device.

3. Extensive standard communication signals

Bürkert offers a wide range of standard communication signals, including both digital and analogue signals. As such, we can make it easier to integrate devices into a control system. We can provide the following digital signals:

  • Profinet
  • Profibus-DP
  • Ethernet I/P
  • EtherCAT
  • Modbus TCP
  • CANopen

4. Worldwide approvals

A major difference between a Mass Flow Meter and a Mass Flow Controller from Bürkert and those of some our competitors is that our devices comply with many of the world’s most stringent standards. This means that they can used with confidence across a wide range of applications. We offer MFMs and MFCs that conform to USP Class VI, FDA, EGV 1935:2004, ATEX and UL.

5. Simple setup and maintenance

Our intuitive Windows-based Burkert Communicator program, which is free to download from our website, streamlines the configuration and parametrisation of all new Bürkert products with electrical components. All you have to do is plug the MFM or MFC into a laptop using the BuS stick for a simple setup and maintenance.

6. Systemhaus support

Our Systemhaus engineers can modify our standard range of MFMs and MFCs to suit your specific application. For example, this could be mounting the devices on a manifold to reduce potential leak paths or by integrating other components in the circuit together, like pressure regulators or shut-off valves. The net result is a value-added service that significantly reduces your assembly, procurement and logistics processes. Furthermore, we supply the complete module under 1x id number fully assembled and tested.

Choose Bürkert for all your MFMs/MFCs

Here at Bürkert, we take the time to fully understand your application to provide you with the very best sensor for your application. Through this process of collaboration, we can provide much more than just an off-the-shelf device. Bürkert provides tailor-made MFMs and MFCs that are certain to increase system performance and exceed all expectations. Choose Bürkert for unsurpassable MFM/MFC technology and service.

For more information about Bürkert Mass Flow Meters and Mass Flow Controllers, or to discuss your application requirements in more detail, please contact our sales team today on +44 (0)1285 648 720 or email sales.uk@burkert.com. Our knowledgeable experts will be only too happy to offer their guidance.

 

Type 8756

Mass flow controller (MFC)/mass flow meter (MFM) for liquids

Type 8756
  • Flow measurement/control up to 120 kg/h
  • Very high accuracy and measuring range
  • High long-term stability, no zero-point adjustment necessary
  • Highly resistant wetted materials
  • Suitable for numerous liquids