The SF4/5 Infrared System is the base version of the detection of the rotating ball. This Infrared System is most used and the least expensive version. A constant infrared beam is present between the diode and the photocell which is interrupted when the ball passes. Each full rotation of the ball causes two interruptions which are converted into two electrical pulses.
More information about the Infrared System can be found in the SF4/5 Infrared 360º click system.
The Infrared Reflection System is based on the reflection via fiberglass. The construction consists of two ultra thin transparent fibers which are locked in a black plastic casing. One of the two fibers is constantly fed with an infrared signal. A passing ball will result in reflection which can be detected by the second fiber. The reflection can be converted to an electrical signal which can be processed by a microcontroller.
Due to the absence of electricity in this design it is safe to use this flowmeter with hazardous flammable liquids/gases. The length of the fiberglass can be multiple kilometers without losing the functionality.
Second advantage of this system is the ability to dip the complete sensor itself in the fluid, even at a considerably depth.
By using the Inductive Proximity Sensor it is possible to dose fluids which block (infrared) light, f.i. milk and paint. For these applications the flow meter can be equipped with a metal ball. The Inductive Proximity Sensor is capable of detecting the metal ball which makes it possible to measure the flow of light blocking fluids.
