FP6500-Series

Supported Applications

The Omega FP6500 Series consists of adjustable depth insertion paddlewheel flow sensors designed for pipe sizes ranging from 3" to 40" (7.6 cm to 102 cm). These devices measure fluid velocity in pipes using a Hall Effect sensor and are suitable for applications requiring direct connection to PLCs or other controls via unshielded cable runs up to 2,000' (650m).

Key application features include:

• Hot-tap installation: FP6511 and FP6512 models allow sensor removal without shutting down the line via a full-port ball valve.
• Low-flow performance: Ruby jewel bearings and non-drag pick-off sensors support wide flow ranges starting at 0.3 feet/sec (0.1 meter/sec).

The series is not recommended for installation downstream of boiler feedwater pumps where exposure to boiler pressure and temperature may occur, nor are the standard sensors designed for continuous underwater operation.

Operating Conditions & Performance

The FP6500 Series operates within a flow range of 0.3 - 30 feet/sec (0.1 - 9 meter/sec) with an accuracy of +/- 1.5% of full scale or ±1.5% of full range, depending on the source document notation.

Performance limits and environmental ratings include:

• Maximum Temperature: 200°F (93°C) at 0 psig for FP6501/FP6502; specified as 93°C (200°F) in the data sheet.
• Maximum Pressure: 200 psi (14 bar) at 75°F (24°C).
• Power Supply: 5-24 Vdc, consuming 1.5 mA.
• Cable Run: Standard #22 AWG 3-conductor cable is 18' (6m) or 5.5 m; maximum run length is 2,000' (650m).

The sensor generates a square-wave signal with an approximate frequency of 11 Hz/fps using a current sinking output (NPN Hall Effect), capable of driving loads up to 20 mA.

Configuration Options

The series offers configurable options for pipe size, material compatibility, and installation method. The two primary model families cover distinct pipe diameter ranges:

• FP6501/FP6511 Family: Designed for 3" to 12" (7.6 cm to 30.5 cm) pipes.
• FP6502/FP6512 Family: Designed for 12" to 40" (30.5 cm to 102 cm) pipes.

Material and connection options include:

• Sensor Body Materials: Brass or Type 316 SS.
• Rotor Material: PVDF.
• Shaft Material: Nickel-bound tungsten carbide (zirconia ceramic optional per manual).
• Bearings: Ruby jewel bearings set in a PVDF bearing holder.
• Fitting Sizes: 1-1/2" NPT for FP6501/FP6502; 2" NPT for FP6511/FP6512 hot-tap models.

The FP6511 and FP6512 variants include a bronze isolation valve (316 SS optional) with an adapter fitting that removes to mount a hot-tap machine. Modular electronics options are available, including rate/total/pulse/4-20 mA transmitters, blind 4-20 mA transmitters, and pulse dividers.

Key Product Differences

The FP6500 Series distinguishes between standard insertion models (FP6501, FP6502) and hot-tap isolation valve models (FP6511, FP6512). The primary differences are:

• Isolation Valve: Standard models have no isolation valve; FP651x/FP6512 models include a full-port ball valve for sensor removal.
• Fitting Size: Standard models use 1-1/2" NPT fittings, while hot-tap models utilize 2" NPT fittings to accommodate the isolation valve assembly.

Sensor body material variations are indicated by model suffixes: standard brass bodies versus "-SS" designations for Type 316 SS sensor bodies. Overall dimensions vary by family, with FP6501 measuring approximately 276.4 mm (10.88") and FP6502 at 403.3 mm (15.88"). Hot-tap models are longer to accommodate the valve assembly.