Development and characterization of a time-based,mass flow controller

Abstract

Abstract

An innovative method of measuring incompressible fluid mass flowrates is described and a physical embodiment of the device capable of using the methodology is presented. The device adopts the traditional and well-known ‘bucket-and-stop watch’ technique as its bases; it uses modern materials and electronics to achieve a robust, reliable, and elegant piece of diagnostic equipment. Similar devices, generically known as a mass flow controller (MFC), are widely used in the processing and manufacture of electronic components and devices. MFCs are also found in the pharmaceutical industry and wherever accurate dosages are required. Experimental work is undertaken to characterize the device. The resulting data are examined for accuracy, reliability, and repeatability. The results indicate that this device is as accurate as any of the commercial unit examined, and for the very low flows tends to be more accurate.