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Gems FT-110 Flow Turbine sensor is a continuous flow rate sensor utilizing a turbine and a hall effect sensor. To ensure high uptime and minimal downtime, please review the below potential issues and how to prevent them:

Fluid contamination or improper chemical compatibility between the wetted components of the sensor and the media is crucial to proper operation of the flow turbine. Review the wetted components to ensure the media is chemically compatible to the turbine, shaft, bearings, and body. Improper compatibility may cause components to prematurely break down, and/or swell which can limit proper spinning of the turbine.

• Fluid contamination is number one.  Especially fibrous contamination that can wrap around the bearing and shaft. Like all turbine meters, the Vision meter requires well filtered fluid.

Debris within the media is another factor to consider. Debris or fibrous material can become wrapped or lodged around the turbine, shaft, or bearings which can jam the turbine. We recommend a minimum 50-micron filter prior to the sensor to prevent any debris from clogging the unit. Viscosity of the fluid is also important for proper operation. Too thick of a liquid will not allow the turbine to spin freely causing incorrect readings. Only use with liquids of viscosity between 32 to 81 SSU (.8 to 16 Centistokes).

Overspinning is another issue to be aware of as it can cause bearing damage from the turbine spinning to fast. This may happen if flow rate is continuously above the flow range it is designed for. Ensure the normal flow rate is within the flow range of the specified flow turbine. Overspinning may also occur if compressed air is blown through the sensor to dry out remaining media. This is not recommended and will lead to damage of the bearings.

Scale buildup from mineral depositing inside of the flow turbine can also lead to failures as it can also lead to failures as it can clog or slow down the turbine. Descaling the lines can help prevent this mineral buildup.

• Scale buildup inside of the meter.  Similar to bullet #1 but due to mineral content in the water.  The solutions used in coffee maker cleaners can be used periodically for this situation.

Bearing damage due to overspeed if the flow rate is too high or if air is blown through the meter – either deliberately to “flush out the system” or accidentally because the liquid in the line drained out.

Adhering to these above guidelines will ensure high uptime and long-life expectancy of your flow turbine.