Injection Moulding Asia

Replacing metal in miniature sensor

Japanese flow sensor manufacturer Aichi Tokei Denki has used Victrex PEEK to produce the main body of the VNS series small electromagnetic flow sensor, moving away from the traditional materials of PPS and stainless steel.

The flow sensor measures, according to Faraday’s Law, the amount of fluid inside a tube by measuring the amount of electricity produced when the fluid moves through the tube. It is different from a mechanical flow sensor that uses moveable parts such as a turbine or float. It is said to have excellent measuring capabilities and is not affected by fluid properties like viscosity, density, grime and impurity. Furthermore since it has a simple hollow design, it does not affect the pressure and is highly durable as well as maintenance-free.

Compared to the traditional materials, Victrex PEEK has mechanical properties and chemical resistance. Also, the design of the main body of the sensor has been made simple through integral moulding, thus achieving a smaller and lower production cost.

Aichi Tokei Denki will position the VNS series as a flow sensor and flow surveillance device for the water treatment and semiconductor applications and present it as an alternative to electromagnetic flow-sensors. It will also be targeted at purification and water treatment plants, employing sterilisation treatment systems, and plant manufacturers using chemical liquid injection systems and surveillance gaslocks in electromagnetic meter pumps.