Ultrasonic Velocity Profiling (UVP) is a measurement technique based on ultrasound Doppler, to acquire velocity profiles of liquid flows.
UVP technology concept
By mean of narrow-beam transducers, the UVP system releases ultrasound pulses in the studied liquid, which are reflected by flowing particles, solid or gas. Comparing both emitted and received acoustic signals, shifted in frequency due to the Doppler effect, the liquid velocity can by evaluated at various distances on the transducer measuring axis.
The instruments using this technique, Ultrasonic Velocity Profilers (UVP), can be seen as a kind of sonar combined with speed camera techniques.
Each connected transducer measures a 1D velocity profile on its own axis. A combination of several transducers provides 2D or 3D maps of the studied flow, controlled and synchronized by one single UVP instrument.
As ultrasound travels in most liquids, both transparent and opaque liquid flows can be measured.
Advantages of UVP technology
1. High-Resolution Data: UVP provides high-resolution, spatio-temporal velocity fields, enabling accurate flow analysis.
2. Non-Invasive Measurement: UVP is a non-intrusive method, meaning it doesn't disrupt the flow or require system downtime.
3. Versatility: UVP can handle a wide range of fluid types and flow conditions, making it suitable for various applications.
4. 2D and 3D Velocity Flow Field Mapping: By combining several transducers, UVP can create comprehensive 2D or 3D maps of the studied flow.
5. Measurement in Transparent and Opaque Liquids: As ultrasound travels in most liquids, UVP can measure flows in both transparent and opaque liquids.
6. Through-Wall Measurement: UVP allows for through-wall measurements, adding to its versatility.
7. No Calibration Required: UVP instruments typically don't require calibration, saving time and effort.
8. Small dimensions and easy set-up: UVP instrument are simple to install unlike laser based solutions
Applications of the UVP technology
UVP has wide-ranging applications, from industrial process control to environmental monitoring. It's used in industries such as water and wastewater management, oil and gas, chemical processing, and more. By providing detailed flow profiles, UVP helps these industries optimize their processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.
