Linear Variable Differential Pitot Tube for Flow Dynamics
University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel sensor, Linear Variable Differential Pitot Tube (LVDPT), designed to provide more accurate measurements of various flow dynamic parameters to the energy sector.
Description
Designed to work in a manner similar to the well-established Linear Variable Differential Transformer (LVDT), the LVDPT will, through the impacts of dynamic pressure on primary and secondary solenoids, induce a voltage directly correlated to the localized velocity of the flow. The LVDPT sensor can directly measure flow data at high temperatures such as in liquid metal and salt flows, in real time, filling a substantial technology gap in the nuclear and solar energy sector.Applications
• Nuclear energy• Solar energy
• Validation of CFD codes
Advantages
Within the advanced nuclear reactor and solar industry accurately measuring localized velocity of flow and determining the flow profile remains challenging. While ultrasonic doppler sensors have traditionally been used to map localized flow conditions, these are not accurate at high temperatures. This inaccuracy is due to the required addition of a wave guide at temperatures over 600 °C which lowers the signal-to-noise ratio.The LVDPT sensor overcomes these shortcomings as it is operational at high temperatures, maintaining a high signal-to-noise ratio that allows for accurate, direct measurement of localized flow conditions. The ability to operate at higher temperatures will also increase the flow media that can be analyzed (including liquid metal) and allows for real time analysis of flow data as a result of high analog voltage output. Overall, this sensor has the potential to address an unmet need in the nuclear and solar energy sector, improving efficiencies in these low carbon energy industries.