Numerical analysis of installation effects in Coriolis flowmeters: A case study of a short straight tube full-bore design

• We used a coupled numerical model to study installation effects in a Coriolis meter.
• Installation effects are explained by analysis of fluid forces in the measuring tube.
• The modelled disturbed-flow conditions can cause detectable installation effects.
• Smaller effects are found for measuring tubes with a higher circumferential stiffness.

A fully coupled, partitioned, numerical model that accounts for fluid–structure interaction is applied for a study of installation effects in a straight-tube Coriolis flowmeter. Three flow disturbance elements positioned at different locations upstream of the measuring tube are considered in the study: a single elbow, closely coupled double elbows out-of-plane, and an orifice. The installation effects are estimated by comparing the mass-flow sensitivities obtained for the disturbed and the fully developed flow conditions in the measuring tube. The interpretation of the installation effects is given by analysing the anti-symmetric fluid forces in the measuring tube. The simulation results show that the magnitude of the installation effect in asymmetrically distorted flows varies for the different circumferential positions of the motion sensors. The sensitivity variations around the circumference of the measuring tube are less pronounced for measuring tubes with a higher circumferential stiffness.The predicted installation effects are also affected by changing the vibration direction of the tube with respect to the disturbance elements.