1
1.0 OVERVIEW
1.1
Description
The Gas Flow Monitor (GFM
) is designed to precisely measure the flow rates of
welding shielding gases.
WARNING – DO NOT USE WITH ANY FLAMMABLE
GASES.
The unit comes in both "portable" and "in-line" models and is software
configurable for English or Metric units of measure. The portable version can be
used to check the gas flow rates directly at the welding torch. The unit is battery
powered (and rechargeable) which allows it to be carried throughout the shop. This
version is ideal for use by maintenance personnel to correctly set and verify shielding
gas flow rates at the welding torch
. The GFM
has 6 selectable gas settings,
ARGON, Argon/ CO
2
(90/10), Argon/ CO
2
(80/20), Argon/ CO
2
(75/25), Helium,
and CO
2
. The GFM
can be custom ordered and configured for additional gas
mixtures.
1.2
Benefits
The "in-line" version is designed to be permanently installed in a welding fixture to
continuously monitor the gas flow rate. When used in this manner the GFM
can
provide "sure-flow" gas testing by setting upper and lower control limits for the user
defined gas flow rates. An internal fault relay can be used to warn or interrupt the
welding process if an out-of-limits condition is detected.
1.3
Features
Some of the features contained in the unit are the capability to limit test, provide an
accumulated gas usage and peak flow rates as well as displaying on-going gas flow
rates. The unit also provides an analog output voltage representing measured gas
flow rates. The GFM
also has a Modbus® RS-485 serial port. The sensor can
communicate with third party controllers via the Modbus® protocol. The sensor
defines 16 coils and 10 Registers for use with the Modbus® serial port. See the serial
communications section for further descriptions of the feature. The GFM
uses an
OLED graphic display panel to display the gas flow rates, to provide programming
menus and user defined optional parameter display.
1.4
Mechanical Specifications
Dimensions
2-13/16"W x 3-1/2"H x 2-13/16”L (71.4 mm W x 88.9 mm H x 71.4 mm L)
Weight
19 oz. (539 gm)
Pipe Fittings
3/8" NPT with 3/8" hose barb fittings recommended max torque 15 in. lbs.
