Analysis of the Operating Principle and Applications of Flow Controllers

2025-10-11

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A flow controller is a device used to precisely measure and regulate the flow rate of fluids—whether gases or liquids. It operates based on advanced sensor technology and sophisticated control algorithms, continuously monitoring the fluid flow in real time, comparing it to a setpoint, and automatically adjusting the valve opening to maintain the desired flow rate.
 

Specifically, a flow controller typically consists of a sensor, a controller, and an actuator (such as a proportional valve). The sensor measures the fluid flow rate, while the controller uses a control algorithm to calculate the appropriate adjustment needed for the actuator—based on the difference between the sensor’s feedback signal and the setpoint. This precise adjustment allows the system to maintain accurate and stable fluid flow. Such a closed-loop control system ensures both the reliability and accuracy of the flow regulation process.

 

Flow controllers are widely used in industrial production and scientific research. For instance, in semiconductor manufacturing, flow controllers precisely regulate gas flow during processes like etching and deposition, ensuring product quality. In chemical production, they manage the flow of reaction gases, guaranteeing the stability and safety of chemical reactions. In the biopharmaceutical field, flow controllers adjust gas flow within pharmaceutical equipment, maintaining the consistency and reliability of the manufacturing process.

 

Moreover, flow controllers play a vital role in various fields such as environmental monitoring, food processing, and analytical instruments. As industrial automation and intelligence continue to advance, flow controllers will increasingly emphasize features like smart functionality, remote monitoring, and predictive maintenance, enabling them to meet the demands of tomorrow's complex and ever-changing industrial environments. In short, with their high precision, reliability, and versatile applications, flow controllers have become indispensable equipment in modern industrial production.

Related Products

ACU10FA Series


The ACU10FA analog-type mass flow controller features fast response and high precision. It offers a wide control range, with a flow rate capability spanning from 5 SCCM to 30 SLM, and can accurately measure and regulate flows as low as 1 SCCM—making it ideal for controlling even the tiniest gas flows.

ACU10FD Series


The ACU10FD digital mass flow controller consists of a mass flow sensor, laminar flow separator, flow controller regulating valve, and amplification control circuit. It features digital signal input and output, offering advantages such as short preheating time, minimal zero drift, and high reliability.

ACU10FDR Series


The ACU10FDR low-pressure-drop gas mass flow controller is equipped with a proprietary high-flow electromagnetic valve, making it ideal for controlling mass flow even when system pressure is nearly unavailable. Its minimal pressure differential ensures the least possible impact on the system, enabling precise flow control under near-atmospheric conditions while significantly reducing system response time. We can customize the valve and PID control features based on your specific application parameters, guaranteeing fast, stable performance with minimized pressure loss.

ACU10FC Series


The ACU10FC differential-pressure mass flow controller employs a differential-pressure-based mass measurement principle that features no thermal drift and zero response lag. It can simultaneously display and output parameters such as instantaneous flow rate, totalized flow, pressure, and temperature. When control functionality is required, an electromagnetic proportional control valve can be added, along with built-in PID regulation capabilities. Unlike thermal mass flow meters, the ACU10FC eliminates any additional "specific heat capacity" error when using gas conversion factors. As a result, even if the gas being measured differs from the calibration gas used at the factory, the measurement accuracy remains unaffected.

ACU10P Series


The ACU10P series pressure controllers/pressure gauges feature a straight-through design, with measurement ranges from 100 kPa to 10 MPa (both absolute and gauge pressures are supported). Additionally, differential pressure transmitters are also available.