Ultrasonic transit-time flowmeters modelled with theoretical velocity profiles: methodology

Fully developed flow is well defined for most values of Reynolds number but distorted flow is not. Velocity profile is the definition given to the dis tribution of velocity in the axial direction over the cross-section of the pipe. This distribution is not usually uniform and can vary dramatically de pending on the properties of the fluid and the configuration of the pipe in which it flows. Ultrasonic flowmeters are affected by such distortions in the how profile, often resulting in erroneous measurements. Transit-time ul trasonic flowmeters are widely used in industry in distorted fluid flows, t herefore correction to or prediction of distorted profiles has sparked grea t interest in the design and application of ultrasonic flowmeters. This doc ument describes a method for modelling and analysing the effect of theoreti cal asymmetric how profiles on ultrasonic flowmeters of the transit-time ty pe, thus allowing an understanding of installation effects.