Cole-Parmer Model 32658-00 Thermal Mass Flow Meter
| Brand | Cole-Parmer |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | 32658-00 |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The Cole-Parmer Model 32658-00 is a thermal mass flow meter engineered for precise, real-time measurement of gas mass flow rates in laboratory, pilot-scale, and light industrial process environments. Unlike volumetric flow devices, this instrument employs constant-temperature anemometry (CTA) — a well-established thermal dispersion principle — to directly quantify mass flow without requiring pressure or temperature compensation. A heated sensor element and reference sensor are exposed to the gas stream; the differential cooling effect correlates linearly with mass flow rate under calibrated conditions. Designed for clean, dry, non-corrosive gases, it delivers high repeatability and low zero drift across its specified operating range. Its compact inline configuration supports integration into gas delivery systems, environmental chambers, bioreactor feed lines, and analytical sample introduction manifolds.
Key Features
- Thermal dispersion sensing technology ensures direct mass flow measurement independent of gas density variations caused by temperature or pressure fluctuations.
- Stainless steel wetted parts (316 SS body and sensor housing) provide compatibility with common inert and reactive gases including N₂, O₂, CO₂, Ar, He, and synthetic air.
- Digital output via 4–20 mA analog signal with HART protocol support enables seamless integration into PLCs, SCADA systems, and centralized data acquisition platforms.
- Front-panel LED display with push-button interface allows local readout and basic configuration (e.g., unit selection, damping adjustment, zero calibration).
- Wide turndown ratio of up to 100:1 ensures accurate measurement from low-flow purge applications (e.g., 0.5 sccm) to higher-rate gas supply lines (e.g., 500 sccm), depending on selected full-scale range.
- IP65-rated enclosure ensures protection against dust ingress and water splashing, supporting reliable operation in controlled laboratory and equipment cabinet environments.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Model 32658-00 is validated for use with non-condensing, particle-free gases within specified viscosity and thermal conductivity limits. It is not intended for use with corrosive, abrasive, or high-humidity gas streams without appropriate conditioning (e.g., filtration, drying). While the device itself does not carry intrinsic safety certification, it may be deployed in Class I, Division 2 environments when installed per NEC Article 500 guidelines. The flow body conforms to ISO 9001-certified manufacturing practices at Cole-Parmer’s U.S.-based assembly and calibration facility. Calibration certificates traceable to NIST standards are available upon request. For regulated quality systems, the meter supports audit-ready documentation workflows compatible with GLP and GMP-aligned laboratories.
Software & Data Management
Although the Model 32658-00 operates as a stand-alone analog transmitter, its HART-enabled output permits configuration and diagnostics using standard handheld communicators (e.g., Emerson 475 or equivalent) or PC-based HART modems. When integrated into larger instrumentation networks, flow data can be logged, trended, and alarm-triggered via third-party SCADA or LabVIEW-compatible DAQ software. Optional digital communication modules (sold separately) extend functionality to Modbus RTU or Ethernet/IP protocols. All configuration changes are retained in non-volatile memory, and zero calibration routines follow ASTM D7213-18 guidance for thermal mass flowmeter verification.
Applications
- Controlled gas dosing in chemical synthesis reactors and catalytic test benches.
- Mass flow monitoring in glovebox inert atmosphere maintenance systems.
- Calibration verification of gas chromatography carrier gas supplies.
- Quantitative gas delivery in cell culture incubators and environmental simulation chambers.
- Leak testing and flow verification in vacuum system forelines and vent lines.
- Research-grade gas blending systems requiring stoichiometric precision in fuel cell or plasma studies.
FAQ
What gases are compatible with the Model 32658-00?
It is calibrated for common industrial and laboratory gases including nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, argon, helium, and compressed air. Custom calibration for other gases is available through Cole-Parmer’s application engineering group.
Does this flow meter require periodic recalibration?
Yes. Annual recalibration is recommended for applications demanding metrological traceability. Drift verification using zero-gas and span-gas checks should be performed prior to critical experiments.
Can the device measure bidirectional flow?
No. The Model 32658-00 is unidirectional and must be installed with correct inlet/outlet orientation per arrow marking on the body.
Is firmware upgrade capability supported?
Firmware updates are not user-accessible; however, field service units may apply verified revisions during scheduled maintenance visits.
What is the maximum allowable system pressure?
The standard version is rated for continuous operation up to 10 bar (145 psi) at 25 °C, with derating applied above 50 °C per manufacturer specifications.
