FLOWMETER IN HOT WFI DISTRIBUTION LOOP

[funsharer]

I read from ISPE guide book that 3ft/sec is ideal flowspeed in PW or WFI distribution system.

I guess we need a sanitary mass flow meter or turbine one to validate the speed. Is it a must to have those instruments to validate the speed? or Can we do it by pressure gauge?

Please advise.

Thank you,

John

 

[quark]

3ft/sec is a little bit less. Actually the standard velocity is above 1.5 m/s (4.92fps). Water at this velocity can generate enough stress to shear off biofilms forming on the internal pipe surface. (I think Pharmaceutical Engineering November, 1999 issue dealt with this. Infact that entire volume was for water system)

Though a flowmeter is not mandatory it is generally used. You can check the flowrate from the discharge pressure and the pump curve, but that includes water consumption at end points and you may not come to know what is your actual return velocity.

Regards,