The ideal solution for challenging hydrogen measurement applications

Engineers and plant operators involved in the production, use, dispensing, or distribution of hydrogen (H2) gas will find the ST Series Thermal Flow Meters from Fluid Components International (FCI) to be an accurate, reliable, and durable solution. These precision-calibrated H2 flow meters offer a range of products suitable for any pipe diameter and installation conditions, requiring no routine maintenance.

Hydrogen is increasingly recognised as a key renewable energy resource. Production processes from fossil sources, biomass and waste and H2-splitting are capturing worldwide investor attention as brown, green, grey, and blue alternative fuels. It also plays a crucial role in ammonia production for the agricultural chemicals industry, methanol production, and other processes. Regardless of the hydrogen source, accurate and repeatable flow measurement is essential to ensure reliable operations.

Hydrogen-calibrated thermal mass flow meters are ideal for these applications due to their ability to measure flow based on heat transfer principles. Hydrogen’s high heat transfer rate requires a flow meter that is calibrated specifically for H2, as theoretical gas equivalency corrections are insufficient for accurate measurement.

FCI's ST Series thermal flow meters are calibrated with actual hydrogen gas under customer-specific installation conditions, ensuring superior accuracy and repeatability in the field. These meters provide direct mass flow measurement and are inherently multivariable, offering both flow and temperature outputs. Their design, which features no moving parts, minimises wear and maintenance requirements, enhancing reliability and longevity. The ST Series also offers a wide variety of process connections, including compression fittings, NPT male and female threads, flanges, ball valves, hot taps, and more, making them compatible with a range of installation sites.

The ST Series is available in models ranging from basic, compact meters with a 4-20mA analog output to advanced versions with multiple 4-20mA outputs, digital bus communications (such as HART, Modbus, Foundation Fieldbus, and Profibus), in-situ calibration, self-diagnostics, on-board data logging, and more. All ST Series H2 flow meters are direct mass flow measuring devices and come with global agency approvals for use in Division 1/Zone 1 hazardous environments. They are built to last, with rugged enclosures made from low-copper content aluminium or 316 stainless steel and are NEMA 4X/IP67 rated for durability in harsh conditions.

With a turndown ratio of 100:1 and flow ranges from 0.25 to 1000 SFPS (0.07 NMPS to 305 NMPS), the ST Series flow meters offer excellent versatility for a wide variety of applications. The transmitter/electronics can be integrally mounted with the flow body or remotely mounted up to 1000ft (305 meters) away. The meters are available in both DC and AC-powered versions, with display options ranging from basic flow rate and totaliser readouts to advanced multivariable digital/graphic backlit LCD displays, featuring FCI’s exclusive through-the-glass 4-button interface.

For installations with limited straight pipe runs or in transitional flow ranges that can compromise accuracy, the ST Series is also available with Vortab® Flow Conditioners that are calibrated to ensure optimal performance, even in challenging conditions.