FP5000-Series

Supported Applications

The Omega FP5000 Series comprises low-cost paddlewheel flow sensors designed for measuring liquid flow rates in pipes ranging from DN15 to DN900 (½ to 36 in.). These insertion-type electromechanical sensors utilize a rotor with permanent magnets that spin within the fluid stream, generating an output signal proportional to velocity. The series is engineered for non-abrasive, non-magnetic liquids containing less than 1% solids by volume and particles smaller than 100 microns.

Operating Conditions & Performance

The FP5000 Series delivers an accuracy of ±1% full scale with a repeatability of ±0.1 fps (±0.2 fps). Measurement ranges vary by sensor type: Self-Powered models operate from 1 to 20 ft/s, while Low-Flow sensors cover 0.3 to 6 m/s (0.3 to 20 ft/s) and can measure up to 23 ft/s in specific configurations.

Process temperature limits depend on the housing material:

• PVDF Body: -18 to 100 °C (0 to 212 °F)
• Polypropylene Body: -18 to 66 °C (0 to 150 °F)

Maximum pressure ratings are defined by the sensor series and temperature. At 20 °C (68 °F), the FP-5300 Series supports up to 180 psig, while the FP-5100 Series supports up to 200 psig. The manual specifies that PVDF paddlewheel sensors have reported failure in hot nitric acid applications due to permeation; for aggressive substances, OMEGA offers sensors with alternative internal resin encapsulation.

Output Signals

• Self-Powered: 19.7 Hz per m/s nominal (6 Hz per ft/s) and 3.3 V p/p per m/s nominal (1 V p/p per ft/s).
• Low-Flow Sensors: 49 Hz per m/s nominal (15 Hz per ft/s), Open collector, sinking, 10 mA max.

Configuration Options

The series offers configurable options for housing materials, shaft compositions, and mounting styles to accommodate diverse piping environments. Sensors are available with a standard cable length of 7.6 m (25 ft) or as integral units.

Housing and Wetted Materials

• Transducer Housing: Glass-filled Polypropylene (black) or PVDF (natural).
• Rotor Pin/Shaft: Titanium, Hastelloy-C, Tantalum, Ceramic, or PVDF.
• O-Rings: FPM-FKM (standard), EPDM, or FFKM-Perfluoroelastomer options available.

Mounting and Process Connections

Sensors are designed for insertion into pipes via fittings such as 1-1/4" NPSM threaded caps, wet-tap assemblies (e.g., FP-319), saddles, tees, or weldolets. The series supports pipe sizes from DN15 to DN900.

• Self-Powered Sensors: Available for ½ to 4 in., 5 to 8 in., and 10" and up pipes (e.g., FP-5300, FP-5301, FP-5302).
• Low-Flow Sensors: Configurable for similar pipe ranges with specific K-factors.

Key Product Differences

The series distinguishes between Self-Powered and Low-Flow sensor types, as well as different housing materials suited to chemical compatibility requirements. The FP-5300 Series utilizes a glass-filled polypropylene body with titanium shafts for general applications up to 180 psig @ 20°C (68°F). In contrast, the FP-5100 Series features a PVDF body and Hastelloy-C rotor pin, rated for higher pressures of 200 psig @ 20°C (68°F) and temperatures up to 100 °C.

Integral mounting options are available in models such as the FP-8500 series variants. Wet-tap assemblies allow installation without system depressurization, with specific pressure/temperature ratings for PVC wet-tap valves (e.g., 100 psig @ 20°C).