Best Ultrasonic Strap on Flow Meter Guide and Comparisons
Ultrasonic strap-on flow meters offer non-contact, clamp-on measurements for liquids in pipes without interrupting process lines. This article highlights five reliable models, discusses key features, and helps buyers compare performance, durability, and ease of use. Whether you measure seawater, fuel, or wastewater, these devices provide accurate, real-time data for monitoring and control. The following summary table lists essential specs to quick-check as you evaluate options.
| Product | Pipe Range | Transducers | Data/Output | Notable Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bonvoisin Handheld Ultrasonic Flow Meter | DN15-700mm | S1+M2 | Internal logger, data download | Non-destructive installation, broad compatibility |
| ValueStoreUS Ultrasonic Flow Meter | 0.76″ to 27″ (20–700 mm) | Small & Medium transducers | Standard USB/RS232 data options | High-temperature capability |
| CGOLDENWALL Ultrasonic Flow Meter | DN15-700mm | S1+M2 | Data storage up to 2000 lines | Clear labeling and durable build |
| WEHAVEFUN TUF-2000B Ultrasonic Flow Meter | DN50-700mm | TM-1 | Bidirectional flow | IP67 enclosure, robust for outdoors |
| XUFOPLY Ultrasonic Flow Meter | DN32-6000mm | TM-1 | Multiple measurement modes | Versatile mounting options |
Below, each model is described with its key specifications, transducer setup, and data capabilities to help you choose the best fit for your application and environment.
Bonvoisin Handheld Ultrasonic Flow Meter
The Bonvoisin unit is a portable clamp-on flowmeter designed for quick, non-invasive flow measurement. It uses S1 and M2 transducers to enable installation without disrupting pipelines. The device supports unit switching between liters and gallons to fit regional reporting preferences. Performance specs include an accuracy of ±1%, linearity of 0.50%, and repeatability of 0.20%, with a velocity range of 0.1–6 m/s and a temperature range of 32–230°F (0–110°C). It records up to 2000 data points via an internal logger and offers software for data download to review historical trends. Real-time data can be viewed on the machine, while historical data is accessible via software after download.
Ideal for seawater, alcohol, industrial, and sewer applications where the pipe length or flow conditions require a non-destructive method. If larger-sensor options are needed (L2 sensors for DN300–6000 mm), Bonvoisin offers contact options to upgrade. This model emphasizes easy setup and minimal process disruption, aligning with plant maintenance and quality control workflows.
ValueStoreUS Ultrasonic Flow Meter With Small & Medium Transducers
This meter covers a broad pipe range from 20 mm to 700 mm (0.76 to 27 inches) with small and medium transducers. It claims 99% accuracy and is suitable for both plastic and metallic pipes. The transducers are rated for high temperatures, expanding the utility to harsh environments. It can measure a variety of liquids, including water, seawater, kerosene, gasoline, fuel oil, crude oil, propane, and butane. Compatible pipe materials span carbon steel, stainless steel, cast iron, ductile iron, copper, PVC, aluminum, asbestos, and fiberglass. This makes it a flexible option for facilities handling diverse liquids and piping systems.
Key strengths include strong thermal tolerance, broad liquid compatibility, and a straightforward non-contact measurement approach. As with other clamp-on meters, installation does not require cutting the pipe, which is advantageous for temporary testing, retrofitting, or routine monitoring in utilities or industrial plants.
CGOLDENWALL Handheld Ultrasonic Flowmeter
The CGOLDENWALL device uses S1 and M2 transducers to measure flow in copper and PVC pipes across a DN15-100 mm (1/2-4”) range for S1 and DN50-700 mm (2-28”) for M2, enabling versatile sensing on a wide variety of installations. It features a digital display showing cumulative flow, instantaneous flow, velocity, and operating status. Accuracy is specified at ±1%, with the same 0.50% linearity and 0.20% repeatability metrics. It includes data storage for up to 2000 measurement lines and provides data download via RS232. Note that newer labeling may appear on units, but performance remains consistent with earlier or later production versions.
With its robust data logging and user-friendly interface, CGOLDENWALL suits applications requiring traceable flow records, such as quality control in manufacturing or environmental monitoring in water treatment facilities. It is a practical option for engineers who need a portable, reliable meter that can stay in outdoor or demanding settings with minimal maintenance.
WEHAVEFUN TUF-2000B Ultrasonic Flow Meter
The TUF-2000B model by WEHAVEFUN is designed for DN50 to DN700 mm pipes and features a bidirectional flow measurement capability. It supports liquids such as water, seawater, sewage, oil, and alcohol, making it suitable for water treatment, chemical processing, and energy sectors. The meter emphasizes a robust IP67-rated enclosure for rugged environments and outdoor deployment. The instrument likely provides a digital display with flow rate and totalized flow, and its clamp-on transducers enable non-invasive installation, preserving piping integrity.
For installations that face challenging environmental conditions or require outdoor reliability, this unit’s protection rating and corrosion-resilience are advantages. As with other clamp-on meters, maintenance is minimized because there is no pipe modification during installation, and the option for data logging and electronics continues to be a key consideration for monitoring programs.
XUFOPLY Ultrasonic Flow Meter With Two TM-1 Transducers
The XUFOPLY unit offers DN32 to DN6000 mm measurement with two TM-1 transducers, providing flexible measurement across a wide pipe range and multiple mounting options. It is designed to be compatible with various liquids, including water, seawater, sewage, oil, and alcohol. The device highlights multiple measurement methods (insertion, inline, wall-mount) to accommodate different installation constraints. It emphasizes wide applicability and versatility for both residential and industrial contexts, where engineers may need a single device to handle multiple project scopes.
Buying Guide
Key purchase considerations help buyers select the right ultrasonic flow meter for their needs:
- Pipe size range: Match the meter to your nominal pipe diameter (DN15–DN700 mm is common). Some models extend to larger DN or smaller DN depending on the transducers.
- Transducer configuration: S1+M2 transducers support broad coverage for inline and insertion setups. Ensure the transducer pair suits your pipe material and thickness.
- Measurement method: Non-contact, clamp-on meters preserve pipe integrity and reduce downtime. Consider wall-mount, inline, or insertion options based on installation constraints.
- Accuracy and repeatability: Look for ±1% accuracy, 0.50% linearity, and 0.20% repeatability as general benchmarks for industrial use.
- Temperature and environmental tolerance: Temperature range and IP rating (IP67/IP68) affect outdoor reliability and liquid compatibility.
- Liquid compatibility: Ensure the device handles the specific liquids in your process, including seawater, crude oil, alcohol, or wastewater.
- Data logging and output: Internal data loggers (up to thousands of records) and RS232/USB interfaces enable long-term monitoring and integration with SCADA or data analysis software.
- Installation impact: Non-destructive installation is a key advantage; verify whether your plant requires real-time data on-site or offline data review via software.
- Maintenance and durability: Consider enclosure protection, corrosion resistance, and the ease of sensor alignment and calibration when planning maintenance cycles.
Choosing between models often comes down to a balance of pipe range, environmental conditions, and data management needs. For temporary testing or retrofit projects, a handheld, portable model with strong data capabilities offers flexibility. For permanent installations in harsh environments, a rugged unit with IP ratings and durable transducers can deliver long-term reliability.
In practice, evaluate how you will access the data: on-device displays support quick checks, while software-based downloads enable trend analysis, regulatory reporting, and process optimization. If you require high-temperature operation or wide liquid compatibility, confirm the supplier can provide the appropriate transducer materials and calibration certifications to support your quality systems.