How To Clean The Dirt And Impurities on The Electromagnetic Flow Meter Body?

Electromagnetic flow meter as a commonly used flow measurement instrument, widely used in a variety of industrial settings. However, in the long-term use of the process, the flow meter body will inevitably accumulate some dirt and impurities, which not only affects the aesthetics of the instrument, but also may have a certain impact on the measurement accuracy.

Method for Cleaning Scale of Electromagnetic Flow Meter Body

Cleaning dirt and impurities from the electromagnetic flow meter body is essential for maintaining accuracy and performance. Follow these steps:

• Power Off the Device

Before cleaning, ensure the flow meter is powered off and disconnected from the pipeline (if necessary).

• Use a Soft Cloth or Brush

For light dirt, use a damp cloth with mild detergent to wipe the outer surface.

A soft brush can help remove dust and grime from hard-to-reach areas.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Do not use strong acids, solvents, or abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the meter’s surface or protective coating.

• Rinse with Clean Water (if applicable)

If the meter is waterproof (IP-rated for water resistance), you can rinse it gently with clean water.

Dry thoroughly before reinstallation.

• Check for Sensor Contamination

If the meter’s electrodes or inner liner have deposits, remove them carefully using a soft cloth with non-abrasive cleaner.

If scaling occurs, use diluted citric acid (for mineral deposits) or alcohol wipes (for grease).

• Inspect for Damage

After cleaning, check for any visible damage or corrosion and replace parts if needed.

First of all, in the cleaning process, should ensure that no damage to any parts of the meter, should avoid the use of cleaning agents containing strong acid, strong alkali and other corrosive substances, so as not to cause damage to the flowmeter.

During the cleaning process, care should be taken to avoid the cleaner flowing into the inside of the flow meter, so as not to affect the measurement accuracy or cause damage. After the cleaning is completed, re-energize the electromagnetic flow meter and check whether it works normally. If abnormalities are found, stop using it immediately and contact professional maintenance personnel for inspection and repair.

In order to maintain the long-term stable operation of the electromagnetic flowmeter, should also pay attention to the following points: first of all, to avoid the installation of electromagnetic flowmeter in the pollution-prone environment, such as more dusty workshop or corrosive gases stronger place; secondly, the electromagnetic flow meter calibration on a regular basis to ensure the accuracy of the measurement; finally, the electromagnetic flowmeter on a regular basis for the maintenance and inspection, and timely detection and treatment of potential problems.

Why is it necessary to clean the electrodes regularly?

If the medium measured by an electromagnetic flow meter is continuously dirty, scale or deposits may form on the electrodes over time. When the conductivity of these deposits differs from that of the measured medium, measurement errors can occur.

Signal drift: When the deposits are highly insulating, the electrode’s induced electromotive force weakens, causing unstable output signals.

Measurement errors: Conductive deposits may create “false electrodes,” interfering with the true flow signal.

Reduced service life: Corrosive media can accelerate electrode aging, especially for non-noble metal electrodes such as stainless steel.

Common Methods for Cleaning Electrodes

Mechanical Cleaning

Applicable Scenarios: Hard particle buildup or scaling (e.g., sludge, calcium, or magnesium deposits).

Procedure: Use a soft brush, ultrasonic cleaner, or high-pressure water jet (check the waterproof rating first).

Note: Avoid scratching the electrode surface; do not use abrasive tools on ceramic electrodes.

Chemical Cleaning

Applicable Scenarios: Oil, organic matter, or chemical crystallization (e.g., sulfates, carbonates).

Recommended Solutions:

Acidic deposits: Soak in 5%–10% dilute hydrochloric acid or citric acid solution.

Alkaline deposits: Use a sodium hydroxide solution (≤5%).

Organic deposits: Wipe with alcohol or acetone.

Note: After cleaning, thoroughly rinse with clean water to prevent reagent residues from corroding the electrodes.

Electrolytic Cleaning (Electrochemical Method)

Principle: Apply voltage to generate bubbles or induce chemical reactions that remove fouling.

Best For: Noble metal electrodes (e.g., platinum).

Advantages: Enables online cleaning without disassembling the flow meter—ideal for continuous industrial processes.

Ultrasonic Cleaning

Applicable Scenarios: Fine particles or stubborn deposits, especially suitable for multi-electrode structures.

Recommended Parameters: Frequency around 40 kHz, cleaning duration 5–10 minutes; use with a neutral detergent for better results.

Recommended Cleaning Intervals

Clean media (e.g., water): Inspect every 6–12 months.

Scaling media (e.g., wastewater, slurry): Clean every 3–6 months.

Corrosive media: Shorten the cleaning interval according to material corrosion resistance; use corrosion-resistant electrodes (e.g., tantalum).

Maintenance Tips

Always disconnect power before cleaning to ensure safe operation.

Regularly check the electrode insulation resistance (should be >100 MΩ).

If the signal remains unstable after cleaning, inspect the grounding of the cable or check for converter malfunctions.

Cleaning the dirt and impurities on the meter body of the electromagnetic flow meter is an important measure to ensure the normal operation and prolong the service life of the electromagnetic flowmeter. At the same time, regular maintenance checks and calibration of the flowmeter is also the key to ensure the accuracy and stability of measurement.