GE

Sensing & Inspection Technologies

™
DigitalFlow XMT868i
Panametrics Liquid Flow Ultrasonic
Transmitter
The DigitalFlow XMT868i liquid flow transmitter is
a complete ultrasonic flow metering system for
measurement of:

Applications

• Hydrocarbon liquids

• Liquefied natural gas (LNG)

• Crude oil

• Lubricating oils Features

• Diesel fuel oils • Economical non-intrusive flow measurement

• Solvents • Hazardous (classified) location certifications

• Water and wastewater • Simple set-up and installation

• Hot/chilled water • Suitable for wide range of pipe sizes and materials

• Chemicals • Two-channel/two-path version available

• Beverages

• Other liquids
Panametrics Liquid Flow Ultrasonic Wetted or Clamp-On Transducers
Transmitter
Ultrasonic flow transducers are classified as either wetted
or non-wetted (clamp-on). Clamp-on transducers are
The DigitalFlow XMT868i ultrasonic flow transmitter
clamped onto the outside of the pipe and never come
combines state-of-the-art flow measurement capability
into contact with the process fluid. Wetted transducers
with a low-cost transmitter package that can be installed
are mounted into the pipe or flowcell in direct contact
right at the process measurement point. The XMT868i
with the process fluid.
carries appropriate certification for for installation in
hazardous (classified) locations commonly found in
petrochemical and chemical processing environments. Clamp-on transducers offer maximum convenience,
flexibility and a low installation cost compared to
traditional flow metering technologies. With proper
The all-digital XMT868i has no moving parts, requires
installation, wetted transducers provide maximum
minimal maintenance and provides long-term, drift-free
accuracy (better than 0.5 percent of reading) in most
operation. An onboard microprocessor provides exclusive
applications.
digital signal coding and correlation detection routines,
automatic adjustment to changing fluid properties, and
dynamically-configured operating software to simplify The DigitalFlow XMT868i can be used with a variety of
programming. wetted solutions including the PanaFlow™ system. The
PanaFlow meter system relies on the XMT868i as an
integral component to simplify installation. A DigitalFlow
Improved Programming Capability XMT868i is easily mounted to the top of a PanaFlow
system and is shipped ready to install.
The DigitalFlow XMT868i introduces an infrared
six-button keypad to allow safe programming and
diagnostics verification in your hazardous (classified)
location. There is no need to open the case to use a PC
to program and no need for an additional handheld
programmer. Just touch the glass of the XMT868i and
the IR buttons will sense your touch. If you prefer your
PC interface, the DigitalFlow XMT868i maintains its RS232
capability, providing full access to the meter’s diagnostics
and programming using PanaView™ software. PanaView
also provides continuous logging capability.

Dual-Channel Version Reduces Costs

and Improves Performance
The optional dual-channel/dual-path model can be user-
configured for a variety of applications. It can be set up
to measure flow in two separate pipes with one meter to
reduce the cost-per-measurement point.

To minimize the effects of flow profile distortions, flow

swirl and cross flow, and for maximum accuracy, you
can install the two sets of transducers on the same pipe.

DigitalFlow XMT868i shown with clamp-on transducers

DigitalFlow XMT868i Flow Transmitter Automatically Adjusts to Changing
Uses Transit-Time Flow Measurement Fluid Properties
Technique
Standard in all DigitalFlow XMT868i transmitters, our
unique Automatic Tracking Window™ (ATW™) feature
Flowmeter transducers
ensures accurate flow measurements even when fluid
properties are unknown or changing. Like the seek mode
on your car stereo, ATW dynamically sweeps the receiver
window whenever the sound speed of the fluid changes.
Fluid This powerful feature lets you measure flow when the
flow fluid sound speed is unknown, is changing due to large
temperature shifts, or when a new liquid starts to flow in
a multiproduct pipeline.

Ultrasonic signal path ATW works for both clamp-on and wetted transducer
Transit-time flow measurement technique applications by searching for a reliable ultrasonic
receive signal. It does this by varying the time between
the transmit signal and the receive signal window until
In this method, two transducers serve as both ultrasonic the receive signal is found. The tracking window auto-
signal generators and receivers. When mounted on a matically sweeps through a range of time intervals based
pipe, they are in acoustic communication with each other, on the minimum and maximum expected sound speeds
meaning the second transducer can receive ultrasonic programmed by the user.
signals transmitted by the first transducer and vice versa.
The window moves (tracks) in response to changes in the
In operation, each transducer functions as a transmitter, fluid sound speed. Once the optimal signal is found, ATW
generating a certain number of acoustic pulses, and locks onto it until another large change in sound speed
then as a receiver for an identical number of pulses. occurs. When this happens, ATW returns to the seek
The time interval between transmission and reception mode until the optimal signal is found again.
of the ultrasonic signals is measured in both directions.
When the liquid in the pipe is not flowing, the transit-time
downstream equals the transit-time upstream. When the Variable time interval
liquid is flowing, the transit-time downstream is less than Transmit signal Receive signal
the transit-time upstream. Time

The difference between the downstream and upstream

Tracking window
transit times is proportional to the velocity of the flowing locked onto
liquid, and its sign indicates the direction of flow. receive signal

Range of tracking window

ATW ensures accuracy when fluid conditions change

XMT868i Specifications Electronics

Flow Measurement
Operation and Performance Patented Correlation Transit-Time™ mode

Fluid Types Enclosures

Acoustically conductive fluids, including most clean • Standard: Epoxy-coated aluminum weatherproof
liquids, and many liquids with entrained solids or gas Type 4X/IP66 Class I, Divison 1, Groups B, C & D; Class
bubbles. Maximum void fraction depends on transducer, II, Groups E, F & G; Class III Flameproof II 2 GD EEx d IIC
interrogation carrier frequency, path length and pipe T5/T6
configuration. • Optional: Stainless steel

Pipe Sizes Dimensions

• Clamp-on transducers: 0.5 in to 300 in (12.7 mm to 7.6 Standard: Weight 10 lb (4.5 kg), size (h x d) 8.2 in x 6.6 in
m) and larger (208 mm x 168 mm)
• Wetted transducers: 1 in to 200 in (25.4 mm to 5 m)
and larger
Channels
• Standard: One channel
Pipe Wall Thickness • Optional: Two channels (for two pipes or two-path
Up to 3 in (76.2 mm) averaging)

Pipe Materials Display

All metals and most plastics. Consult GE for concrete, Optional: two-line x 16-character backlit LCD display,
composite materials, and highly corroded or lined pipes. configurable to display up to four measurement
parameters in sequence
Flow Accuracy (Velocity)
±0.5% of reading (achievable with process calibration) Keypad
Built-in infrared, six-button keypad, for full functionality
Typical Clamp-On Flow Accuracy (Velocity) operation
• Pipe ID>6 in (150 mm): ±1% to 2% of reading
• Pipe ID<6 in (150 mm): ±2% to 5% of reading Power Supplies
• Standard: 90-260 VAC
Typical Wetted Flow Accuracy (Velocity) • Optional: 12 to 28 VDC, ± 5%
±1% of reading
Power Consumption
Accuracy depends on pipe size, installation and whether 20W maximum
measurement is one-path or two-path.
Operating Temperature
Repeatability -4°F to 140°F (-20°C to +60°C)
±0.1% to 0.3% of reading
Storage Temperature
Range (Bidirectional) –67°F to 167°F (–55°C to 75°C)
–40 to 40 ft/s (–12.2 to 12.2 m/s)
Standard Inputs/Outputs
Rangeability (Overall) Two 0/4 to 20 mA isolated outputs, 600 S maximum load
400:1

Specifications assume a fully developed flow profile

(typically 10 diameters upstream and 5 diameters
downstream of straight pipe run) and flow velocity
greater than 1 ft/s (0.3 m/s).

Measurement Parameters
Volumetric flow, totalized flow and flow velocity
Optional Inputs/Outputs Wetted Ultrasonic Flow Transducers
All analog and digital I/O are available in specific
combinations. Consult GE for available option cards.
Temperature Ranges
• Two additional 0/4 to 20 mA isolated outputs, 1000 Ω
• Standard: –40°F to 212°F (–40°C to 100°C)
maximum load
• Optional (overall range): –310°F to 1112°F (–190°C to
• Two 4 to 20 mA isolated inputs, 24-VDC loop power
600°C)
• Two or four isolated, three-wire RTD (temperature)
inputs, –148°F to 662°F (–100°C to 350°C), 100 S
platinum Pressure Ranges
• Two or four pulse or frequency outputs, optically • Standard: 0 to 3000 psig (1 to 207 bar)
isolated, 3A maximum, 100 VDC maximum, 1W • Optional: Higher pressures on request
maximum, from DC to 10 kHz maximum
• Alarm relays Materials
• Standard: Stainless steel
Digital Interfaces • Optional (for Pan-Adapta® Plugs):
• Standard: RS232 Titanium, Hastelloy® alloy, Monel® alloy, duplex, CPVC,
• Optional: RS485 (multiuser) PVDF and others
• Optional: HART® protocol
• Optional: Modbus® protocol Pan-Adapta plugs allow installation and removal of
• Optional: Foundation Fieldbus® wetted transducers without interrupting the process or
• Optional: OPC server emptying the pipe.
• Optional: Ethernet
Temperature Ranges
Data Logging • Standard: –40°F to 212°F (–40°C to 100°C)
• Standard: None • Optional (overall range): –310°F to 1112°F (-190°C to
• Optional: Memory capacity (linear and/or circular type) 600°C)
to log up to 150,000 flow data points
Pressure Ranges
European Compliance • Standard: 0 psig to 3000 psig (1 bar to 207 bar)
System complies with EMC Directive 89/336/EEC, 73/23/ • Optional: Higher pressures on request
EEC LVD (Installation Category II, Pollution Degree 2) and
transducers comply with PED 97/23/EC for DN<25 Materials
• Standard: Stainless steel
Clamp-On Ultrasonic Flow Transducers • Optional (for Pan-Adapta® Plugs):
Titanium, Hastelloy® alloy, Monel® alloy, duplex, CPVC,
PVDF and others
Temperature Ranges
• C-RS Transducers:-40° to 300°F (-40° to 150°C)C-PT
Pan-Adapta plugs allow installation and removal of
High Temperature: -20° to 410°F (-29° to 210°C)
wetted transducers without interrupting the process or
• OKS Special Application: -310°F to 572°F (–190°C to
emptying the pipe.
300°C)

Mountings Process Connections

• Standard: 1 in or 3/8 in NPTM
Stainless steel chain or strap, welded or magnetic
• Optional: RF flanged, socket weld, fuse bond and others
clamping fixtures

Area Classifications Mountings

Flanged flowcell, hot tap or cold tap
• Standard: General purpose
• Optional: Weatherproof Type 4/IP65
• Optional: Class I, Division 1, Groups B, C & D; Class II, Area Classifications
Groups E, F & G; Class III • Standard: General purpose
• Optional: Flameproof II 2 G EEx md IIC T6–T3 • Optional: Weatherproof Type 4/IP65
• Optional: Submersible • Optional: Class I, Division 1, Groups B, C & D; Class II,
Groups E, F & G; Class III
• Optional: Flameproof II 2 G EEx d IIC T6
• Optional: Submersible
Transducer Cables
• Standard: One pair of coaxial cables, type RG62 AU, or
as specified for transducer type
• Optional: Lengths up to 1000 ft (330 m) maximum

High-Temperature and High-Pressure

Ultrasonic Flow Transducers
Bundle Waveguide Technology™ System transducer and
holder (see BWT™ System specifications)

Energy Measurement
Calculates energy flow rate and totalized energy.
Requires optional RTD or analog I/O board.

Temperature Transducers
Loop-powered, three-wire, platinum RTDs; clamp-on and
wetted (thermo-well) types are available

Accuracy
±0.15°C with wetted RTDs (matched pairs)

Range
-4°F to 500°F (-20C° to 260°C)

The accuracy of the energy measurement is a

combination of the accuracy of the associated flow
and temperature measurements. 1% to 2% of reading
is typical for calibrated systems. Not all extremes of
parameters can be achieved simultaneously.

Additional Options

PanaView™ PC Interface Software

The DigitalFlow XMT868i communicates with a PC
through a serial interface and Windows® operating
systems. Consult the manual for details on sites, logs and
other operations with a PC.
XMT868i Application Notes Additional Options

in Brief PanaView™ PC Interface Software

Ultrasonic Flowmeter Saves Money Over Mag The DigitalFlow XMT868i communicates with a PC
Meter through a serial interface and Windows® operating
A sewerage/wastewater facility found that installing a systems. Consult the manual for details on sites, logs and
GE clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter offered excellent other operations with a PC.
performance and accuracy and was far less expensive
than installing a new mag meter. When comparing cost 710°F (376°C) Resid Line? No Problem.
of a new 30 in (750 mm) mag meter to be installed on With the DigitalFlow XMT868i combined with the Bundle
their cast iron line to that of a two-path GE meter, the Wafeguide Technology System from GE, you can
water treatment plant decided that the ultrasonic meter measure cryogenic fluids like LNG or the demanding
was a bargain. The 30 in (750 mm) mag required the line temperatures of coker resid lines that can run hotter
to be shut down for installation and major piping work than 700°F (371°C). Ultrasonic flowmeters will not cause
needed to be done. It was estimated that it would take pressure drop and have no impulse lines to plug, making
several days to get the meter running. The GE meter was them a great solution for difficult fluids.
easily installed to existing piping without ever shutting Even though most ultrasonic manufacturers’ flowmeters
down the pipe and installation was complete within a can only handle up to 500°F (260°C), GE’s BWT systems
day. have been able to reach up to 1000°F (537°C). The unique
design removes the piezoelectric element from the
extreme temperatures by using wave guide technology.
The transducer can even be swapped out under
operating conditions. One customer has installed 16
units, replacing their wedge meters, and has had them
operating maintenance free for more than five years.

Accuracy
±0.15°C with wetted RTDs (matched pairs)

Range
–4°F to 500°F (–20C° to 260°C)

The accuracy of the energy measurement is a

combination of the accuracy of the associated flow Bundle Waveguide Technology System
and temperature measurements. 1% to 2% of reading
is typical for calibrated systems. Not all extremes of
parameters can be achieved simultaneously.
 www.gesensinginspection.com
920-170B

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