What issues should be noted when using Coriolis flow meter?

Coriolis mass flow meters are well known for their exceptional accuracy, typically achieving ±0.2% or even ±0.1% accuracy. They can measure mass flow directly, making them ideal for applications involving high-value media such as gasoline, diesel, oil, and other fuels.

However, despite their precision, several important issues must be considered when using Coriolis flow meters to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
 

1. Pressure Loss

One of the main challenges with Coriolis mass flow meters is pressure loss.
In general, the smaller the measuring pipe size, the greater the pressure loss. This issue is difficult to avoid, and many manufacturers have developed different sensor shapes to minimize it — including U-shaped, Δ-shaped, micro-bend, and even straight-tube designs.

Real Case Example

One of our customers used a DN8 Coriolis mass flow meter to measure diesel consumption of a generator. Initially, all generators operated well. However, when one generator reached 100% load, it suddenly stopped due to insufficient fuel supply caused by pressure loss in the flow meter.

This case highlights the importance of considering pressure loss during system design. Proper pressure compensation solutions should be implemented to ensure stable operation, especially in high-demand fuel systems.
 

2. Clean Fuel Requirement

Coriolis mass flow meters require clean fuel to function properly.
In another case, several small-sized Coriolis flow meters became blocked after long-term operation. Upon inspection, we found that sediments had accumulated inside the measuring pipes, causing clogging.

To prevent this, it is essential to:

• Ensure that only clean fuel passes through the flow meter

• Perform regular maintenance and pipeline cleaning

• Use filtration systems where necessary

These steps help maintain accuracy and extend the service life of the meter.
 

Conclusion

Coriolis mass flow meters deliver unmatched accuracy and reliability in fuel measurement applications.
However, engineers and users should pay close attention to:

• Pressure loss, especially in small pipe sizes

• Fuel cleanliness, to prevent clogging and ensure stable performance

By addressing these issues in the system design and maintenance process, users can fully leverage the advantages of Coriolis technology.

For more detailed guidance, explore our flow meter selection guide or contact our team for customized recommendations.