CUBIC INSTRUMENTS BF-2008 Ultrasonic Biogas Flowmeter
| Brand | CUBIC INSTRUMENTS |
|---|---|
| Origin | Hubei, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | BF-2008 |
| Product Type | Ultrasonic Gas Flowmeter |
| Flow Range | 0.08–4 Nm³/h |
| Accuracy Class | ±1.5% of reading |
| Transitional Flow (Qt) | 0.4 Nm³/h |
| Overload Capacity | 4.8 Nm³/h |
| Max Operating Pressure | 20 kPa |
| Connection Thread | M30×2.0 |
| Operating Temperature | −10 to +40 °C |
| Storage Temperature | −20 to +50 °C |
| Explosion Protection Rating | Ex ib IIB T3 Gb |
| Power Supply | 3 × AA alkaline batteries (typical 1-year service life) |
| Display | Backlit LCD |
| IP Rating | IP65 (body), IP67 (sensor housing) |
Overview
The CUBIC INSTRUMENTS BF-2008 Ultrasonic Biogas Flowmeter is a clamp-on, transit-time ultrasonic flow measurement device engineered specifically for low-pressure, low-velocity biogas streams in decentralized anaerobic digestion systems. Unlike thermal or differential pressure meters, the BF-2008 employs dual-path ultrasonic transducers mounted externally on the pipe wall to measure the time-of-flight difference between upstream and downstream acoustic signals—enabling non-intrusive, maintenance-free volumetric flow calculation in standard cubic meters per hour (Nm³/h). Its design targets biogas compositions typical of agricultural digesters (CH₄: 50–70%, CO₂: 30–50%, trace H₂S and moisture), with compensation algorithms calibrated for variable gas density and sound velocity under ambient temperature and sub-atmospheric pressure conditions (≤20 kPa gauge). The meter operates without moving parts or flow obstruction, eliminating pressure drop and minimizing long-term drift.
Key Features
- Transit-time ultrasonic principle with dual-sensor configuration for high signal-to-noise ratio and stable zero-point performance
- Low-flow optimization: validated repeatability down to 0.08 Nm³/h (2.2 L/min), critical for intermittent biogas generation from small-scale digesters
- Energy-efficient electronics architecture consuming <35 µA in sleep mode; battery life rated for ≥12 months under typical field duty cycles (15-min logging interval)
- Integrated diagnostic engine providing real-time fault indicators—including transducer coupling loss, signal attenuation beyond threshold, and battery voltage warning
- Condensate-resistant mechanical layout: vertical mounting orientation and hydrophobic gasketing minimize internal moisture accumulation in humid biogas environments
- Robust aluminum alloy housing with IP65-rated enclosure and IP67-rated sensor heads for outdoor deployment in unsheltered digester sites
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The BF-2008 is validated for dry and wet biogas streams with ≤60% relative humidity and particulate loading <5 mg/Nm³. It complies with EN 1434-1:2018 for domestic gas meters (adapted for biogas service), and meets mechanical safety requirements per ISO 9001-certified manufacturing protocols. While not certified to MID (Measuring Instruments Directive) Annex MI-002 for fiscal metering, it satisfies technical prerequisites for internal process monitoring under ISO 5167-4 and ASTM D1945 for gas composition–independent flow reporting. Its Ex ib IIB T3 Gb rating certifies intrinsic safety for Zone 1 hazardous areas where biogas may accumulate near digesters or storage tanks.
Software & Data Management
Data output is via pulse output (0.01–1000 pulses/Nm³, configurable) and optional RS-485 Modbus RTU interface (addressable up to 247 units on single bus). No proprietary software is required: raw pulse counts integrate seamlessly with SCADA platforms (e.g., Ignition, Siemens Desigo, or local PLCs) using standard Modbus function codes 03/04. Internal data logging stores min/max/average flow values hourly for 30 days; historical records are extractable via manual reset-triggered dump mode. Audit trail functionality includes timestamped firmware version logs and calibration event markers—supporting GLP-aligned recordkeeping for operational verification.
Applications
- On-farm biogas quantification at livestock manure digesters (dairy, swine, poultry operations)
- Real-time feedstock-to-gas yield analysis in community-scale AD plants serving agricultural cooperatives
- Performance validation of biogas upgrading units prior to injection into natural gas grids
- Leak detection and mass balance auditing in landfill gas collection systems (LFG)
- Commissioning support for EPC contractors installing turnkey biogas-to-energy projects
- Sub-metering for energy recovery audits in food waste and municipal organic waste treatment facilities
FAQ
Does the BF-2008 require periodic recalibration?
No routine recalibration is mandated. Factory calibration is traceable to CNAS-accredited standards (GB/T 6587.7–2012); field verification is recommended annually using a portable ultrasonic reference meter per ISO 17025 procedures.
Can it operate reliably in freezing ambient conditions?
The specified operating range is −10 to +40 °C. Below −10 °C, battery capacity drops significantly; external heating jackets or insulated enclosures are advised for sustained sub-zero operation.
Is pipe material compatibility limited to stainless steel or PVC?
It supports carbon steel, stainless steel, PVC, HDPE, and GRP pipes with wall thicknesses 2–20 mm and diameters 50–200 mm (standard configuration); custom transducer mounts available for non-standard geometries.
How is moisture in biogas handled during measurement?
The ultrasonic transit-time method is inherently insensitive to condensate film thickness ≤0.5 mm on pipe interior walls. Vertical installation further prevents pooling; optional hydrophobic coating on transducer faces reduces dew adhesion.
What documentation accompanies shipment for regulatory compliance?
Each unit ships with CE Declaration of Conformity (DoC), Ex certification report (CNEx19.2028X), factory calibration certificate, and ISO 9001 manufacturing audit summary—sufficient for third-party QA review in EU and ASEAN markets.
