The FMA-2600A Series mass and volumetric flow controllers use the principle of differential pressure within a laminar flow field to determine and control mass flow rate

A laminar flow element (LFE) inside the meter forces the gas into laminar (streamlined) flow

Inside this region, the Poiseuille equation dictates that the volumetric flow rate be linearly related to the pressure drop

A differential pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure drop along a fixed distance of the LFE

This, along with the viscosity of the gas, is used to accurately determine the volumetric flow rate

Separate absolute temperature and pres- sure sensors are incorporated and correct the volumetric flow rate to a set of standard condi- tions

This standardized flow rate is commonly called the mass flow rate and is reported in units such as standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM) or standard liters per minute (SLM)

The controller uses a true proportional valve coupled to the flow body to control flow using the integral PID loop controller

Standard units include a 0 to 5 V output (4 to 20 mA optional) and RS232 communications

The gas-select feature and the setpoints can be adjusted from the front keypad or via RS232 communications

Volumetric flow, mass flow, absolute pressure, and temperature can all be viewed or recorded through the RS232 connection

It is also possible to multi-drop up to 26 units on the same serial connection to a distance of 46 m (150').