High accuracy measuring and control of low fluid flow rates

摘要

The flow of a fluid at low flow rates is measured and controlled without introducing measuring devices into the flow path. As the fluid is flowing through tubing (C), the tubing is heated to impart heat to the fluid. Heat sensors (12, 30) are attached at spaced postitions from each other along the tubing in the direction of fluid flow to sense temperatures. The amount of heat applied to the tubing is controlled to maintain an established temperature differential between the heat sensors. The amount of heat applied is measured to provide an accurate and proportional indication of the fluid flow rate.