MEMS Flow Sensor suits HVAC air handling equipment.
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Press Release Summary:
Model D6F-P MEMS Flow Sensor incorporates cyclone-type dust segregation system with bidirectional flow paths that generate cyclonic flows to separate dust particles from air using centrifugal forces. It offers flow range of +1.0 SLM, pressure range of +0.84 in. H2O, and output signal range of analog 0.5-2.5 Vdc, with 0-0.5 Vdc indicating negative flow. Measuring 17 x 37 x 27 mm, unit is available in PCB mountable and connector models.
Original Press Release:
OMRON Releases New Cyclone-Type MEMS Flow Sensor
Highly Dust Resistant, Ideal for Sensing Air Flow in HVAC Air Handling Equipment
November 2007 -- Schaumburg, IL - OMRON Electronic Components LLC has announced the release of a new MEMS flow sensor. Incorporating a unique cyclone-type Dust Segregation System (DSS), the new flow sensor is ideal for applications that require sensing of non-filtered, 'ordinary' air, such as variable air volume (VAV) ventilation systems.
EMS flow sensors are particularly sensitive to dust particles. To overcome this drawback, this new product features Omron-designed bidirectional flow paths that generate cyclonic flows to separate dust particles from the air using centrifugal forces. Unlike conventional sensors that rely on an indirect flow sensing method, the new D6F-P senses airflow directly and can thus help increase the precision of air handling equipment.
o Development Background
In recent years, indoor air quality has become an issue of major concern, and this has created a demand for precise measurement and control of the volume of fresh air intake. Additionally, for quieter systems, VAV boxes have become larger, requiring sensors that can detect very low flow rates. Omron's new MEMS flow sensor is designed to meet this need for an ultra-small sensor that can detect minute airflow with high sensitivity, offering an economic alternative to differential pressure sensing.
o Overview of New Product
By using the world's smallest class of MEMS flow sensor element, Omron has succeeded in reducing the new sensor's footprint by 50% compared with previous models, allowing it to be easily built into increasingly smaller products and measuring devices.
In addition, direct mounting to PCBs helps to lower total costs by preventing wiring errors and reducing labor requirements.
Moreover, in contrast to the unidirectional flow sensing of earlier models, the D6F-P offers bi-directional flow options for use in applications from sensing air-handling intake to human breathing for medical applications.
o Features
1. Omron's unique cyclonic Dust Segregation System (DSS) provides a high level of reliability by separating dust particles from the air stream to reduce their effect on the sensor chip.
2. Compact size (17 x 22 mm PCB footprint, overall dimensions 17 x 37 x 27 mm high).
3. In addition to PCB mountable models, connector models are also available.
4. Standard model calibrated for unidirectional flow, with negative flow indication.
5. Bi-directional flow calibration available upon request.
6. Economical (competitive with differential pressure sensors)
7. Output signal is amplified and temperature compensated.
o Other Applications
Measurement instrumentation, medical devices, semiconductor equipment, etc.
o Specifications
Flow Range: +1.0 SLM (contact factory for bi-directional options)
Pressure Range: +0.84" H2O
Maximum Pressure: 50kPa (200" H2O)
Output Signal: Analog 0.5 to 2.5VDC; 0 to 0.5VDC is negative flow indication (contact factory for other output signal ranges)
o Part Numbers
D6F-P0010A1: PCB Terminals
D6F-P0010A2: Connector
o Price
In 100 piece quantities, the D6F-P will be under $47 through authorized Omron distributors.
o Cyclonic Flow Structure
Patented Dust Segregation System (DSS)
o Ultra-fine structure (1.55 x1.55 mm x 0.4 mm thick)
o High sensitivity (capable of measuring flow velocities below 1 cm/sec)
o High-speed response, very resistant to influencefromtemperaturechanges
* A thermopile is a group of thermocouples that convert thermal energy into electrical energy.
** Cavity shape increases heating efficiency, lowering power consumption.
o Principles of Flow Sensor Measurement
When there is no airflow, the temperature distribution around the heater is symmetrical on the right and left. When air flow is present, the side of the flow sensor facing the source of the airflow cools and the opposite side warms, disrupting the temperature equilibrium. The difference in temperature appears as a difference in the thermopiles' electromotive force, allowing the mass flow velocity and mass flow rate to be calculated.
For more information, visit Omron's website at www.components.omron.com
About Omron
Omron Electronic Components LLC is a leading manufacturer and provider of advanced electronic components. Extensive product groups include relays, switches, connectors, MEMS flow and pressure sensors, touch sensing IC's, and optical components. Omron Electronic Components LLC is the Americas subsidiary of Omron Corporation, a $5.5 billion global leading supplier of electronics and control system components and services. Their broad product offering can be found in applications for the communications, transportation, medical, HVAC, appliance, industrial automation, consumer electronics, and test & measurement markets around the world. Omron Electronic Components LLC has an extensive sales network consisting of regional sales engineers, inside sales representatives, technical sales assistants, customer service staff, and an authorized Distributor network, all ready to serve your needs.
