EP2406594A1

EP2406594A1 - Vibration sensor and in-line measuring device comprising said sensor

Info

Publication number: EP2406594A1
Application number: EP10713150A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Martin Anklin-Imhof; Ennio Bitto; Christof Huber; Alfred Rieder
Original assignee: Endress and Hauser Flowtec AG; Flowtec AG
Current assignee: Endress and Hauser Flowtec AG
Priority date: 2009-03-11
Filing date: 2010-03-11
Publication date: 2012-01-18
Also published as: CA2754597A1; US20110146416A1; US8333119B2; EP2406589A1; US8347736B2; US20110146383A1; EP2417425A1; WO2010103080A1; EP2406589B1; CN102348963A; US8316722B2; WO2010103076A1; WO2010103078A1; RU2492430C2; EP2406590B1; WO2010103075A1; US20100251830A1; US20130133436A1; US9052225B2; US20100242624A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a sensor for detecting at least one physical measurable variable of a flowable medium guided in a tube conduit and/or for producing Coriolis forces which serve to detect the mass flow rate of a flowable medium guided in a tube conduit. The sensor comprises a sensor housing (71), a housing end on the inlet side being defined by a splitter (201) on the inlet side which has exactly four respective interspaced flow openings (201A, 201B, 201C, 201D) and a housing end on the outlet side being defined by a splitter (202) on the outlet side which has exactly four respective interspaced flow openings (202A, 202B, 202C, 202D), and exactly four straight measuring tubes (181, 182, 183, 184) for guiding the flowing medium which tubes are connected to the splitters (201, 202) to give fluidically parallel flow paths. The respective measuring tube end on the inlet side of each of the four measuring tubes leads to one of the flow openings (201A, 201B, 201C, 201D) of the splitter (201) on the inlet side and the respective measuring tube end on the outlet side leads to one of the flow openings (202A, 202B, 202C, 202D) of the splitter (202) on the outlet side. The sensor further comprises an electro-mechanical exciter arrangement (5) for producing and/or maintaining mechanical vibrations of the four measuring tubes (181, 182, 183, 184), the exciter arrangement being designed such that it can be used to excite the paired measuring tubes to perform respective counter-phase flexural vibrations in a respective common imaginary plane of vibration (XZ1, XZ2). The sensor according to the invention is especially suitable for measuring a density and/or a mass flow rate of a medium which flows at least temporarily inside a tube conduit at a mass flow rate of more than 2200 t/h.

Description

Vibration-type transducer and in-line gauge with such a transducer

The invention relates to a transducer of the vibration type for measuring a guided in a pipeline flowable medium, esp. A gas, a liquid, a powder or other fluid substance, esp. For measuring a density and / or a mass flow rate, esp a time interval totalized total

Mass flow, one in a pipeline at least temporarily with a mass flow rate of more than 2200 t / h, esp. More than 2500 t / h, flowing medium. Furthermore, the invention relates to an in-line measuring device with such a transducer.

In process measurement and automation engineering, for the measurement of physical parameters, such as e.g. the mass flow, density and / or viscosity of piping media often uses such in-line meters which, by means of a medium flow transducer of the vibration type and a measuring and operating circuit connected thereto, have in the medium reaction forces, e.g. Coriolis forces corresponding to the mass flow rate, inertial forces corresponding to the density of the medium and / or frictional forces corresponding to the viscosity of the medium cause and derive therefrom a respective mass flow rate, the respective viscosity and / or a measurement signal representing the respective density of the medium produce. Such sensors, especially designed as Coriolis mass flowmeters or Coriolis mass flow / density meters, are e.g. in EP-A 1 001 254, EP-A 553 939, US-A 47 93 191, US-A 2002/0157479, US-A 2006/0150750, US-A 2007/0151368, US -A 53 70 002, US-A 57 96 01 1, US-B 63 08 580, US-B 64 15 668, US-B 67 11 958, US-B 69 20 798, US Pat. B 71 34 347, US-B 73 92 709, or WO-A 03/027616 described in detail and in detail.

Each of the transducers has a transducer housing, of which an inlet-side first housing end at least partially by means of a precisely two each spaced apart circular cylindrical or conical flow openings having first flow divider and a Auslaßseitiges second housing end at least partially by means of a precisely two each spaced flow openings having second flow divider are formed. In some of the sensors shown in US Pat. No. 5,796,011, US Pat. No. 3,750,301, or US Pat. No. 2007/0151368, the receiver housing comprises a rather thick-walled circular cylindrical tube segment which forms at least one central segment of the receiver housing , For guiding the at least temporarily flowing medium, the transducers further comprise in each case exactly two fluidically connected measuring tubes made of metal, in particular steel or titanium, which are placed inside the transducers housing and are supported in an oscillatory manner by means of the aforementioned flow divider. A first, mostly identical and mutually parallel, measuring tubes opens with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a first flow opening of the inlet side first flow divider and with an outlet second Meßrohrende in a first flow opening of the outlet second flow divider and a second of the measuring tubes opens with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a second flow opening of the first flow divider and with an outlet side second Meßrohrende in a second flow opening of the second flow divider. Each of the flow dividers further comprises a respective flange with a sealing surface for fluid-tight connection of the measuring transducer to a tube segment of the pipeline serving for supplying medium for or for discharging medium from the measuring transducer.

The measuring tubes are vibrated to produce above-mentioned reaction forces, driven by a generation or maintenance of mechanical vibrations, esp. Of bending vibrations, the measuring tubes in the so-called drive or Nutzmode serving exciter arrangement, during operation. The oscillations in Nutzmode are usually, esp. When using the transducer as Coriolis Massedurchfluß- and / or density meter, at least partially formed as a lateral bending oscillations and in the case of flowing through the measuring tubes medium due to induced therein Coriolis forces by additional, frequency-equal vibrations superimposed in the so-called Coriolis mode. Accordingly, the exciter arrangement - here mostly electro-dynamic - in the case of straight measuring tubes is designed so that the two measuring tubes in the Nutzmode at least partially, esp. Also predominantly, to opposite phase bending vibrations in a common plane of oscillation differentially - ie by entry simultaneously along a common line of action , but in the opposite direction acting exciters - excitable.

For detecting vibrations, esp. Of stimulated by the exciter assembly bending vibrations, the measuring tubes and for generating vibrations

Vibrationsmeßsignalen the transducers further each have a responsive to relative movements of the measuring tubes, usually also electrodynamic sensor arrangement. Typically, the sensor arrangement is formed by means of an inlet-side, oscillations of the measuring tubes differentially - ie only relative movements of the measuring tubes - detecting vibration sensor and an outlet-side, oscillations of the measuring tubes differentially detecting vibration sensor. Each of the commonly identical vibration sensors is by means of a content Erten on the first measuring tube permanent magnet and one of its magnetic field flooded, held on the second measuring tube-mounted cylindrical coil is formed.

In operation, the above-described, formed by means of the two measuring tubes and Erhaltgererten excitation and sensor assembly inner part of the transducer by means of the electro-mechanical exciter arrangement at least temporarily excited in the Nutzmode to mechanical vibrations on at least one dominant useful oscillation frequency. As the oscillation frequency for the oscillations in Nutzmode while a natural momentary resonant frequency of the inner part is usually chosen, which in turn is essentially dependent both on the size, shape and material of the measuring tubes as well as a current density of the medium; if necessary, this useful oscillation frequency can also be significantly influenced by a momentary viscosity of the medium. As a result of fluctuating density of the medium to be measured and / or as a result of operating medium changes the useful oscillation frequency in the operation of the transducer naturally at least within a calibrated and insofar predetermined useful frequency band variable, which has a predetermined lower and a predetermined upper limit frequency.

For defining a free oscillating length of the measuring tubes and concomitantly adjusting the useful frequency band measuring transducer of the type described above also usually at least one inlet-side coupler element for forming inlet-side nodes for antiphase vibrations, esp. Biegeschwingungen, both measuring tubes, spaced from two flow dividers fixed to both measuring tubes and at least one outlet-side coupler element for forming outlet-side vibration nodes for antiphase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the measuring tubes, which is fixed both from both flow dividers and the inlet-side coupler element spaced on both measuring tubes. In case of straighter

Measuring tubes corresponds to a minimum distance between inlet-side and outlet-side - in so far associated with the inner part - coupler elements of the free swing length of the measuring tubes. By means of the coupler elements also a vibration quality of the inner part as well as the sensitivity of the transducer can be influenced overall, in such a way that for a minimum required sensitivity of the transducer at least a minimum free swing length is to provide.

The development in the field of vibration sensors has reached a level that modern transducers of the type described can practically meet the highest requirements for precision and reproducibility of the measurement results for a wide range of flow measurement. Thus, in practice, such transducers become available for mass flow rates of only a few g / hr (grams per hour) t / min (tonnes per minute), used at pressures of up to 100 bar for liquids or even over 300 bar for gases. The measurement accuracy achieved in this case is usually about 99.9% of the actual value or above or a measurement error of about 0.1%, wherein a lower limit of the guaranteed measuring range can well be about 1% of the measuring range. Due to the high bandwidth of their applications are industrially suitable

Vibration-type transducers with nominal diameters (corresponding to the caliber of the pipe to be connected to the transducer or the caliber of the transducer measured at the flange), which are in a nominal diameter range between 1 mm and 250 mm and at a maximum nominal mass flow rate 2200 t / h each for Pressure losses of less than 1 bar are specified. A caliber of the measuring tubes is approximately in a range between 80 mm and 100 mm.

Despite the fact that measuring sensors for use in pipelines with very high mass flow rates and, consequently, very large caliber of well over 100 mm are offered, there is still a considerable interest in measuring sensors of high precision and low pressure loss even for larger pipeline calibers, about 300 mm or more, or mass flow rates, of 2500 t / h or more, for example, for applications in the petrochemical industry or in the field of transport and handling of oil, natural gas, fuels, etc. This leads to scaled-up scale of the state of the art the technique, in particular EP-A 1 001 254, EP-A 553 939, US-A 47 93 191, US-A

2002/0157479, US-A 2007/0151368, US-A 53 70 002, US-A 57 96 01 1, US-B 63 08 580, US-B 67 11 958, US-B 71 34 347, US-B 73 50 421, or WO-A 03/027616, known and already established Meßaufnehmerkonzepte that the, esp. The desired vibration characteristics, the required load capacity and the maximum allowable pressure loss owed, geometric dimensions, esp which would assume an installation length corresponding to a distance between the sealing surfaces of both flanges and, in the case of curved measuring tubes, a maximum lateral extent of the measuring transducer, would be exorbitantly high. Along with this, the empty mass of the measuring transducer inevitably increases, with conventional measuring sensors of large nominal width being already realized with an empty mass of approximately 400 kg. Investigations that have been carried out for transducers with two curved measuring tubes, such as in accordance with US-B 73 50 421 or US-A 57 96 011, in terms of scaling to even larger sizes, for example, have shown that for nominal nominal diameters of more than 300 mm, the unladen mass of a scale-enlarged conventional measuring transducer far above 500 kg would be accompanied by an installation length of more than 3000 mm and a maximum lateral extent of more than 1000 mm.

In that regard, it should be noted that industrially compatible, yet mass-producible transducer of conventional design and materials with nominal diameters of well over 300 mm Both for reasons of technical feasibility, and due to economic considerations in the foreseeable future should not be available.

Based on the above-mentioned prior art, it is therefore an object of the invention to provide a sensor of high sensitivity and vibration quality, which causes a low pressure loss of less than 1 bar even at high mass flow rates of more than 2200 t / h, and also with large nominal diameter of more than 250 mm has a compact design as possible.

To achieve the object, the invention consists in a vibration-type transducer for detecting at least one physical quantity of flowable medium, esp. Of a gas, a liquid, a powder or other flowable material, and / or for generating the detection a mass flow rate of fluid in a pipeline, esp. Of a gas, a liquid, a powder or other fluid, Coriolis forces serving. The transducer according to the invention comprises, for example, a substantially tubular and / or outer circular cylindrical, housing housing, of which an inlet side first housing end by exactly four spaced apart, for example, circular cylindrical, conical or conical, flow openings having inlet side first flow divider and an outlet side second Housing end by means of a precisely four spaced apart, for example, circular cylindrical, conical or conical, flow openings having outlet-side second flow divider are formed. Furthermore, the transducer according to the invention comprises exactly four flow-parallel flow paths connected to the, for example, identical, flow splitters connected, esp. Only by means of nämlicher flow divider in the transducer housing supported and / or identical and / or at least in pairs parallel, straight measuring tubes for guiding from flowing medium. Of the four measuring tubes of the transducer according to the invention open, esp. Circular cylindrical, first measuring tube with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a first flow opening of the first flow divider and an outlet side second Meßrohrende in a first flow opening of the second

Flow divider, a, in particular circular cylindrical, second measuring tube with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a second flow opening of the first flow divider and with an outlet side second Meßrohrende in a second flow opening of the second flow divider, a, esp. Circular cylindrical, third measuring tube with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a third flow opening of the first flow divider and an outlet side second Meßrohrende in a third flow opening of the second flow divider and a, esp. circular cylindrical, fourth measuring tube with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a fourth flow opening of the first flow divider and having an outlet side second Meßrohrende in a fourth flow opening of the second flow divider. Further, the transducer according to the invention comprises an electro-mechanical, for example by means of electrodynamic vibration exciter formed, exciter arrangement for generating and / or maintaining mechanical vibrations, such as bending vibrations, the four measuring tubes, wherein the exciter arrangement is designed such that thus the first measuring tube and the second Measuring tube in operation to opposite phase bending vibrations in a common imaginary first vibration level and the third measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube during operation opposite phase bending vibrations in a common imaginary, in particular to the first plane of vibration substantially parallel, second vibration plane are excitable.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, the transducer further comprises a, esp. Plate-shaped, first coupler element of the first type, the at least for vibration, esp. Biegeschwingungen of the first measuring tube and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the second to form inlet side nodes Measuring tube both from the first flow divider and the second flow divider spaced inlet fixed at least at the first measuring tube and the second measuring tube, and a, esp. Plate-shaped and / or identical to the first coupler element and / or parallel to the first coupler element, second coupler element of the first kind for forming outlet-side vibration nodes at least for vibrations, esp. Bending vibrations, of the first measuring tube and for anti-phase

Vibrations, in particular bending vibrations, of the second measuring tube is fixed at both the first flow divider and the second flow divider as well as the first coupler element spaced outlet side at least at the first measuring tube and the second measuring tube. According to a first embodiment of the first development of the invention is further provided that all four measuring tubes are mechanically connected to each other by means of the first coupler element of the first kind and by means of the second coupler element of the first kind.

According to a second embodiment of the first embodiment of the invention is further provided that the first coupler element of the first type plate-shaped, esp. In such a way that it has a rectangular, square, round, cross-shaped or H-shaped base. According to a third embodiment of the first development of the invention is further provided that the second coupler element of the first kind, esp. Alike the first coupler element of the first kind, plate-shaped, esp. In such a way that it is a rectangular, square, round, cross-shaped or H. -shaped base has. According to a fourth embodiment of the first development of the invention is further provided that the first coupler element of the first kind is also fixed to the third measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube, and that the second coupler element of the first kind is fixed to the third measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube. According to a fifth embodiment of the first development of the invention it is further provided that a center of gravity of the first coupler element of the first type has a distance to a center of gravity of the transducer, which is substantially equal to a distance of a center of gravity of the second coupler element of the first type to namely the center of gravity of the transducer ,

According to a sixth embodiment of the first development of the invention, the measuring sensor is further configured such that a free _length , L _18x , of the first measuring tube, in particular of each of the measuring tubes, corresponding to a minimum distance between the first coupler element of the first type and the second coupler element of the first type, less than 2500 mm, in particular less than 2000 mm and / or more than 800 mm. In particular, the measuring sensor is further designed so that each of the four, esc. Equal caliber and / or same length, measuring tubes has a caliber, which is more than 60 mm, esp. More than 80 mm, esp., Such that a caliber -to- oscillation length ratio of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the caliber of the first measuring tube to the free oscillation length of the first measuring tube, more than 0.07, esp. More than 0.09 and / or less than 0.15, is.

In addition to the first development of the invention, it is further provided that the sensor further, for example, a plate-shaped, third coupler element of the first kind, for forming inlet-side nodes at least for vibrations, esp. Bending vibrations of the third measuring tube and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bending vibrations , the fourth measuring tube both from the first flow divider and from the second flow divider spaced inlet fixed at least on the third measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube, and a, for example, plate-shaped, fourth coupler element of the first kind, for forming outlet-side vibration node at least for vibrations, esp. Biegeschwingungen , the third measuring tube and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube from both the first flow divider and the second flow divider as well as the third coupler element of the first kind spaced outlet side to is fixed on the third measuring tube and on the fourth measuring tube. In this case, for example, all four measuring tubes by means of the third coupler element of the first kind and by means of the fourth coupler element of the first type may be mechanically connected to each other.

According to a second embodiment of the invention, the transducer further includes a, for example, plate-shaped or rod-shaped, first coupler element of the second type, for synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the first measuring tube and the same frequenzgleichen vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the third measuring tube from both first coupler element of the first kind as well as the second coupler element of the first kind spaced on the first measuring tube and the third measuring tube but otherwise not fixed to any other of the measuring tubes, and a, for example, plate-shaped or rod-shaped, second coupler element of the second kind, the Synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the second measuring tube and the same frequency vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube both from the first coupler element of the first kind and the second coupler element of the first kind as well as the first coupler element of the second kind spaced on the second measuring tube and on fourth measuring tube but otherwise not fixed to any other of the measuring tubes, esp. Such that the first and second coupler element of the second kind are placed opposite each other in the transducer. In addition, the transducer may further include, for example, a plate-shaped or rod-shaped, third coupler element of the second type, for synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the first measuring tube and the same frequency vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the third measuring tube from the first coupler element of the second kind spaced apart at the first measuring tube and at the third measuring tube but otherwise at no other of the measuring tubes is fixed, and a, for example, plate-shaped or rod-shaped, fourth coupler element of the second kind, for synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bieschwings, the second measuring tube and the same frequency-like vibrations, In particular bending vibrations of the fourth measuring tube of the second and third coupler element of the second type each spaced on the second measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube but otherwise not fixed to any other of the measuring tubes comprise, esp. Such that the third and fourth coupler second A rt are placed opposite each other in the transducer. In addition, the transducer can also be a, for example, plate-shaped or rod-shaped, fifth coupler element of the second type, for synchronizing vibrations, esb. Bieschwwingungen, the first measuring tube and the same frequenzgleichen vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the third measuring tube from the first and third coupler element of the second kind spaced apart at the first measuring tube and at the third measuring tube but otherwise at no other of the measuring tubes is fixed, and a, for example, plate-shaped or rod-shaped, sixth coupler element of the second kind, for synchronizing vibrations, esb. Bending vibrations of the second measuring tube and of the same frequency-like vibrations, In particular bending vibrations, the fourth measuring tube from the second, fourth and fifth coupler element of the second type each spaced at the second measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube but otherwise not fixed to any of the measuring tubes, esp. Such that the fifth and sixth coupler element second type are placed opposite each other in the transducer.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that each of the four, especially gleichkalibrigen and / or same length, measuring tubes has a caliber which is more than 60 mm, esp. More than 80 mm.

According to a second embodiment of the invention it is further provided that the first flow divider one, esp. A mass of more than 50 kg having flange for Connecting the transducer to a supply of medium to the measuring transducer serving pipe segment of the pipeline and the second flow divider one, esp. A mass having more than 50 kg having flange for connecting the transducer to a the removal of medium from the transducer serving pipe segment of the pipeline , Further developing this embodiment of the invention, each of the flanges each have a sealing surface for fluid-tight connection of the Meßaufnehmers with the respective corresponding pipe segment of the pipeline, wherein a distance between the sealing surfaces of both flanges one, esp. More than 1200 mm amount and / or less than 3000 mm betragende, installation length of the transducer defined. In particular, the measuring transducer is further configured such that a measuring tube length of the first measuring tube corresponding to a minimum distance between the first flow opening of the first flow divider and the first flow opening of the second flow divider is selected such that a measuring tube length-to-installation length ratio of the measuring transducer, defined by a ratio of the measuring tube length of the first measuring tube to the installation length of the measuring transducer, more than 0.7, esp. More than 0.8 and / or less than 0.95, and / or that a caliber-to-installation length ratio of the transducer, defined by a relationship of

Caliber of the first measuring tube to the installation length of the transducer, more than 0.02, esp. More than 0.05 and / or less than 0.09, is. Alternatively or in addition to the transducer is designed so that a nominal diameter to installation length ratio of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the nominal diameter of the transducer to the installation length of the transducer smaller than 0.3, esp. Less than 0.2 and / or greater than 0.1 , whereby the nominal nominal diameter corresponds to a caliber of the pipeline in the course of which the sensor is to be inserted.

According to a third embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that a measuring tube length of the first measuring tube corresponding to a minimum distance between the first flow opening of the first flow divider and the first flow opening of the second flow divider is more than 1000 mm, in particular more than 1200 mm and / or less than 2000 mm.

According to a fourth embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that each of the four, especially gleichkalibrigen, measuring tubes is arranged so that a smallest lateral distance of each of the four, especially the same length, measuring tubes of a housing side wall of the transducer housing each greater than zero, in particular greater than 3 mm and / or greater than a double of a respective pipe wall thickness; and / or that a smallest lateral distance between two adjacent measuring tubes is in each case greater than 3 mm and / or greater than the sum of their respective tube wall thicknesses.

According to a fifth embodiment of the invention it is further provided that each of the flow openings is arranged so that a smallest lateral distance of each of the Flow openings of a housing side wall of the transducer housing in each case greater than zero, in particular greater than 3 mm and / or greater than a double of a smallest pipe wall thickness of the measuring tubes is; and / or that a smallest lateral distance between the flow openings is greater than 3 mm and / or greater than a double of a smallest pipe wall thickness of the measuring tubes.

According to a third embodiment of the invention, the transducer further comprises a plurality of increasing the Schwingungsgüte the measuring tubes serving annular, esp. Identical, stiffening elements, each of which is mounted on exactly one of the measuring tubes so that it encompasses one of its peripheral lines. According to one embodiment of the third embodiment of the invention, at least four annular, for example identical, stiffening elements are mounted on each of the measuring tubes, esp. Such that the stiffening elements are placed in the transducer so that two mounted on the same measuring tube, adjacent stiffening elements to each other at a distance, the at least 70% of a tube outer diameter of the same measuring tube but at most 150% selbigen tube outer diameter is, for example, a distance in the range of 80% to 120% selbigen tube outer diameter.

According to a fourth embodiment of the invention, the transducer further comprises a vibration, esp. Stimulated by the exciter assembly excited bending vibrations, the measuring tubes reacting, for example, electro-dynamic and / or by means of identical vibration sensors, sensor assembly for generating vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen Measuring tubes representing Schwingungsmeßsignalen. According to a first embodiment of the fourth development of the invention it is provided that the sensor arrangement by means of a, in particular electrodynamic and / or oscillations of the first measuring tube relative to the second measuring tube differentially detecting, inlet side first vibration sensor and one, esp. Electrodynamic and / or oscillations of the first Measuring tube relative to the second measuring tube differentially detecting, outlet side second vibration sensor is formed, esp. Such that a minimum distance between the first vibration sensor and the second vibration sensor corresponding measuring length of

Meßaufnehmers more than 500 mm, esp. More than 600 mm and / or less than 1200 mm, and / or that a caliber-to-Meßlänge- ratio of the transducer, defined by a ratio of a caliber of the first measuring tube to the measuring length of the transducer , more than 0.05, in particular more than 0.09. Furthermore, the first oscillation sensor can be formed by means of a permanent magnet supported on the first measuring tube and a cylindrical coil flooded by its magnetic field, supported on the second measuring tube, and the second oscillation sensor a permanent magnet supported on the first measuring tube and a cylindrical coil flooded by its magnetic field and supported on the second measuring tube.

According to a second embodiment of the fourth development of the invention is further provided that the sensor arrangement by means of a, esp. Electrodynamic and / or oscillations of the first measuring tube relative to the second measuring tube differentially detecting, inlet side first vibration sensor, esp. Electrodynamic and / or oscillations of first measuring tube relative to the second measuring tube differentially detecting, outlet side second vibration sensor, one, esp. Electrodynamic and / or vibrations of the third measuring tube relative to the fourth measuring tube differentially detecting, inlet side third vibration sensor and one, esp. Electrodynamic and / or vibrations of the third measuring tube relative to fourth measuring tube differentially detecting, outlet side fourth vibration sensor is formed, esp. Such that a minimum distance between the first vibration sensor and the second vibration sensor corresponding measuring length of Me pickup more than 500 mm, especially. more than 600 mm and / or less than 1200 mm, weight, and / or that a caliber-to-gauge length ratio of the measuring transducer, defined by a

Ratio of a caliber of the first measuring tube to the measuring length of the measuring transducer, more than 0.05, esp. More than 0.09, is. In this case, advantageously, the first and third vibration sensors can be electrically connected in series so that a common vibration measurement signal represents common inlet-side vibrations of the first and third measuring tubes relative to the second and fourth measuring tubes, and / or the second and fourth vibration sensors are electrically connected in series. in that a common vibration measurement signal represents common outlet-side vibrations of the first and third measuring tubes relative to the second and fourth measuring tubes. Alternatively or in addition, furthermore, the first vibration sensor can be moved by means of a permanent magnet supported on the first measuring tube and a cylindrical coil flooded by its magnetic field, held on the second measuring tube, and the second vibration sensor by means of a permanent magnet supported on the first measuring tube and one of its magnetic field be held Zylinderspule formed, and / or can the third vibration sensor by means of a third Meßrohr held permanent magnet and a flooded by its magnetic field, held on the fourth measuring tube Cylindrical coil and the fourth vibration sensor by means of a third Meßrohr content permanent magnet and a flooded by the magnetic field, on fourth measuring tube content Erten cylindrical coil may be formed.

According to a sixth embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that a mass ratio of an empty mass of the entire measuring transducer to an empty mass of the first measuring tube is greater than 10, in particular greater than 15 and less than 25, is. According to a seventh embodiment of the invention it is further provided that an empty mass, M ₁₈ , of the first measuring tube, esp. Each of the measuring tubes is greater than 20 kg, in particular greater than 30 kg and / or less than 50 kg.

According to an eighth embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that an empty mass of the measuring transducer is greater than 200 kg, in particular greater than 300 kg.

According to a ninth embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that a nominal nominal diameter of the measuring transducer, which corresponds to a caliber of the pipeline in the course of which the measuring transducer is to be used, is more than 100 mm, in particular greater than 300 mm. Advantageously, the transducer is further configured so that a mass-to-nominal diameter ratio of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the dummy mass of the transducer to the nominal nominal diameter of the transducer smaller than 2 kg / mm, esp. Less than 1 kg / mm and / or greater than 0.5 kg / mm.

According to a tenth embodiment of the invention it is further provided that the first and the second measuring tube at least with respect to a material from which their tube walls each consist, and / or with respect to their geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a tube Outside diameter and / or caliber, are identical.

According to an eleventh embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that the third and the fourth measuring tube at least with respect to a material from which their tube walls each consist, and / or in terms of their geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a tube Outside diameter and / or caliber, are identical.

According to a twelfth embodiment of the invention it is further provided that the four measuring tubes with respect to a material of which the tube walls consist, and / or in terms of their geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a tube outer diameter and / or a Caliber, are identical. But it may also be advantageous if, alternatively, both the third measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube with respect to their respective geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a tube outer diameter and / or a caliber, is different from the first Measuring tube and the second measuring tube measuring tubes.

According to a thirteenth embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that a material from which the tube walls of the four measuring tubes at least partially, titanium and / or zirconium and / or duplex and / or super duplex steel is. According to a fourteenth embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that the transducer housing, the flow divider and tube walls of the measuring tubes each consist of, for example, stainless steel.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the invention, it is further provided that a minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies of at least the first and second measuring tubes are substantially equal and a minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies of at least the third and fourth measuring tubes are substantially equal. Here, the minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies of all four measuring tubes can be kept substantially the same or else only in pairs the same.

According to a sixteenth embodiment of the invention it is further provided that the four flow openings of the first flow divider are arranged so that, in particular circular, cross-sectional areas of the flow openings of the first flow divider associated imaginary centroids form the vertices of an imaginary square, said cross-sectional surfaces in a common are imaginary, perpendicular to a, in particular. To a main flow axis of the measuring transducer parallel, longitudinal axis of the measuring transducer extending cutting plane of the first flow divider lie.

According to a seventeenth embodiment of the invention it is further provided that the four flow openings of the second flow divider are arranged so that, in particular circular, cross-sectional areas of the flow openings of the second flow divider associated imaginary centroids form the vertices of an imaginary square, said cross-sectional surfaces in a common are imaginary, perpendicular to a, in particular. To a main flow axis of the measuring transducer parallel, longitudinal axis of the measuring transducer extending cutting plane of the second flow divider lie.

According to an eighteenth embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that the exciter arrangement by means of one, esp. Electrodynamic and / or oscillations of the first

Measuring tube relative to the second measuring tube differentially exciting, first vibration exciter is formed. In particular, the exciter assembly according to a first embodiment of the eighteenth

Ausgstaltung of the invention by means of one, for example, electrodynamic and / or oscillations of the third measuring tube relative to the fourth measuring tube differentially exciting, second

Vibration generator formed. It is further provided that the first and second

Vibration exciters are electrically connected in series, such that a common driver signal excites common vibrations of the first and third measuring tube relative to the second and fourth measuring tube. The vibration exciters of the exciter assembly can be formed, for example, by means of a permanent magnet supported on the first measuring tube and a cylindrical coil supported by its magnetic field, and wherein the second vibration generator is flooded by means of a permanent magnet supported on the third measuring tube and a magnetic field of the fourth measuring tube salaried cylindrical coil is formed.

According to a second development of the eighteenth Ausgstaltung of the invention, the transducer further comprises a first plate-shaped stiffening element, which is for adjusting resonant frequencies of bending vibrations of the first measuring tube and the third measuring tube in a substantially perpendicular to the first and / or second vibration level third

Vibration level is fixed to the first measuring tube and the third measuring tube, in each case at a lying between the first vibration exciter and the first flow divider segment of the first and third measuring tube; a second plate-shaped stiffening element, which is fixed for adjusting resonance frequencies of bending vibrations of the second measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube in a first vertical and / or second vibration level substantially vertical fourth vibration level on the second measuring tube and on the fourth measuring tube, in each case at one between the first vibration exciter and the first flow divider lying segment of the second and fourth measuring tube; a third plate-shaped stiffening element which is fixed for adjusting resonance frequencies of bending vibrations of the first measuring tube and the third measuring tube in the third plane of vibration on the first measuring tube and on the third measuring tube, in each case at a lying between the first vibration exciter and the second flow divider segment of the first or third measuring tube; and a fourth plate-shaped stiffening member fixed to set resonance frequencies of bending vibrations of the second measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube in the fourth vibration plane on the second measuring tube and on the fourth measuring tube, each at a segment of the second oscillator between the first and the second flow divider second and fourth measuring tube.

The plate-shaped stiffening elements, in the event that the sensor arrangement is formed by means of an inlet-side first vibration sensor and by means of an outlet-side second vibration sensor, for example, be arranged in the transducer such that the first plate-shaped stiffening element lying on the between the first vibration sensor and the first flow divider Segment of the first measuring tube along one of its straight side lines - approximately the third measuring tube lying - and lying on the lying between the first vibration sensor and the first flow divider segment of the third measuring tube along one of the straight side lines - about the first measuring tube closest - second plate-shaped stiffening element on the lying between the first vibration sensor and the first flow divider segment of the second measuring tube along one of its straight side lines - approximately the fourth measuring tube nearest - as well as lying on the lying between the first vibration sensor and the first flow divider segment of the fourth measuring tube along one of its straight side lines - approximately the second measuring tube closest -, the third plate-shaped stiffening element the lying between the second vibration sensor and the second flow divider segment of the first measuring tube along one of the straight side lines - about the third measuring tube nearest - as well as lying on the between the second vibration sensor and the second flow divider segment of the third measuring tube along one of its straight side lines - About the first measuring tube nearest -, and the fourth plate-shaped stiffening element on the lying between the second vibration sensor and the second flow divider segment of the second measuring tube along one of the ger Aden side lines - about the fourth measuring tube closest - as well as at the lying between the second vibration sensor and the second flow divider segment of the fourth measuring tube along one of the straight side lines - about the second measuring tube closest - are fixed. Further, it is provided here that each of the four, for example, identical, plate-shaped stiffening elements are each formed and placed in the transducer so that it has a minimum distance between the side lines of those two measuring tubes, along which it is fixed, corresponding height which, in particular by more than half, is smaller than a length of the same plate-shaped stiffening element measured in the direction of the same side lines. In addition, each of the four plate-shaped stiffening elements may be further each formed so that the length of each of the plate-shaped stiffening elements, esp. By more than twice, is greater than a width of the same plate-shaped stiffening element.

According to a nineteenth embodiment of the invention is further provided that a central segment of the transducer housing is formed by means of a straight, for example, circular cylindrical tube.

According to a twentieth embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that the transducer housing is substantially tubular, for example circular cylindrical. In this case, it is further provided that the transducer housing has a largest housing inner diameter which is greater than 150 mm, esp. Greater than 250 mm, esp. Such that a housing to Meßrohr inner diameter ratio of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the largest housing inner diameter to a caliber of the first measuring tube is greater than 3, in particular greater than 4 and / or less than 5, held and / or that a housing inner diameter to nominal distance ratio of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the largest housing inner diameter to the nominal nominal diameter of the measuring transducer is less than 1.5, in particular less than 1.2 and / or greater than 0.9, wherein the nominal diameter corresponds to a caliber of the pipeline, in the course of which the transducer is to be used. The housing inner diameter to nominal width ratio of the measuring transducer can advantageously also be equal to one, for example.

Moreover, the invention consists in an in-line measuring device for measuring a density and / or a mass flow rate, esp. Also over a time interval totalized total mass flow, one in a pipeline at least temporarily, esp. With a mass flow rate of more than 2200 t / h, flowing medium, esp. Of a gas, a liquid, a powder or other fluid substance, which, esp. As

Compact instrument formed, in-line measuring device one of the aforementioned sensors and an electrically coupled to the transducer, esp. Also mechanically rigidly connected, comprising Meßgerät- electronics.

A basic idea of the invention is to use four parallel flowed straight measuring tubes in place of the conventional measuring transducers of large nominal diameter used, and so on the one hand to make optimum use of limited space, on the other hand an acceptable pressure drop over a wide range, esp. Even at very high mass flow rates of well over 2200 t / h, to be able to guarantee. In addition, the resulting from the total cross-section of the four measuring tubes effective flow cross-section of the inner part compared to conventional only two measuring tubes having the same nominal nominal diameter and the same empty mass can be easily increased by more than 20%.

An advantage of the transducer according to the invention further consists in that predominantly established design concepts, such as with regard to the materials used, the joining technique, the production processes, etc., can be applied or only slightly modified, whereby the H create costs quite comparable to those conventional transducers are. In this respect, a further advantage of the invention is the fact that not only a possibility is created comparatively compact

Vibration-type transducers with a large nominal diameter of more than 150 mm, in particular with a nominal diameter of greater than 250 mm, with manageable geometric dimensions and empty masses, but also can be realized economically useful.

The transducer according to the invention is therefore particularly suitable for measuring flowable

Media suitable, which are in a pipeline with a caliber of greater than 150 mm, esp. Of 300 mm or above, out. To which the transducer is also for measuring such Suitable mass flow rates, which are at least temporarily greater than 2200 t / h, esp. At least temporarily be more than 2400 t / h, as may occur, for example, in applications for the measurement of oil, natural gas or other petrochemicals.

The invention and further advantageous embodiments thereof are explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments, which are illustrated in the figures of the drawing. Identical parts are provided in all figures with the same reference numerals; if it requires the clarity or it appears otherwise useful, is omitted reference numerals already mentioned in subsequent figures. Further advantageous embodiments or developments, esp. Combinations initially only individually explained aspects of the invention will become apparent from the figures of the drawing as well as the dependent claims per se.

In detail show:

FIGS. 1, 2, for example, serving as Coriolis flow / density / viscosity sensor in-line measuring device in perspective, partially also cut, side views;

FIGS. 3a, b show a projection of the in-line measuring device according to FIG. 1 in two different ones

Page views;

Fig. 4 is a perspective side view of a transducer of the vibration type, incorporated in an in-line measuring device according to Fig. 1;

FIGS. 5a, b show a projection of the measuring transducer according to FIG. 4 in two different side views;

FIGS. 6a, b projections of an inner part of the measuring transducer according to FIG. 4 in two different side views;

Fig. 7 in perspective side view of a development of the transducer according to

Fig. 4, incorporated in an in-line measuring device according to Fig. 1; and

FIGS. 8a, b show a projection of the measuring transducer according to FIG. 7 in two different

Page views.

1, 2 is a, in particular. As a Coriolis Massedurchfluß- and / or density measuring instrument trained, in-line measuring device 1 is shown schematically, which serves to a mass flow m in a a - not shown here for clarity reasons - to detect pipe flowing medium and to map in this mass flow currently representing Massendurchfluß- measured value. Medium can be virtually any fluid substance, for example a powder, a liquid, a gas, a vapor or the like. Alternatively or in addition, the in-line measuring device 1 can optionally also be used to measure a density p and / or a viscosity η of the medium. In particular, the in-line meter is intended to measure such media as petroleum, natural gas or other petrochemicals that are in a pipeline having a caliber of greater than 250mm, esp. Caliber of 300mm or above , stream. In particular, the in-line meter is further intended to measure flowing media of the aforementioned type which are allowed to flow at a mass flow rate greater than 2200 t / h, especially greater than 2500 t / h.

The in-line measuring device 1 comprises for this purpose a measuring transducer 1 1 of the vibration type through which the medium to be measured flows during operation, as well as one which is electrically connected to the measuring transducer 11 - not shown here in detail, but only schematically as a circuit block.

Meter Electronics 12. Advantageously, the meter electronics 12 are designed to operate with the in-line meter 1 with a higher-level meter processing unit, such as a programmable logic controller (PLC), a personal computer, and / or a workstation. via data transmission system, for example a cable-bound fieldbus system and / or wirelessly by radio, measuring and / or other

Can exchange operating data. Furthermore, the meter electronics 12 is designed so that it can be powered by an external power supply, for example via the aforementioned fieldbus system. In the event that the in-line measuring device 1 is intended for connection to a fieldbus or other communication system, the, in particular programmable, measuring device electronics 12 has a corresponding communication interface for data communication, e.g. to send the measured data to the aforementioned programmable logic controller or a higher-level process control system on.

4, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7, 8a, 8b are exemplary embodiments of a suitable for in-line measuring device 1, esp. As Coriolis Massedurchfluss-, as density and / or in different representations Serving as a viscosity pickup, measuring transducer 11 shown vibration type, which transducer 11 in operation in the course of one of a to be measured, for example, powdered, liquid, gaseous or vaporous, medium flowed through - used for reasons of clarity - pipeline is used. The transducer 1 1 serves, as already mentioned, in a medium flowing through such mechanical

Reaction forces, esp. Of mass flow-dependent Coriolis forces, medium-density dependent inertial forces and / or dependent on the viscosity of the medium friction forces to generate measurable, esp. Sensory detectable, act back on the transducer. Derived from these reaction forces describing the medium, the mass flow rate, the density and / or the viscosity of the medium can be measured, for example, by means of evaluation methods correspondingly implemented in the meter electronics in the manner known to the person skilled in the art.

The transducer 1 1 has a u.a. Also serving as a support frame - here substantially tubular, outside circular cylindrical - transducer housing 7i, are housed protected in the other, the detection of at least one measured variable serving components of the transducer 1 1 from external environmental influences. In the embodiment shown here, at least one middle segment of the receiver housing 7-ι by means of a straight, esp. Circular cylindrical tube formed, so that for the manufacture of the transducer housing, for example, inexpensive, welded or cast standard tubes, for example made of cast steel or forged steel, can be used.

An inlet-side first housing end of the transducer housing 7-ι is formed by means of an inlet-side first flow divider 2O ₁ and an outlet-side second housing end of the transducer housing 7- _I is formed by means of outlet second flow divider 2O ₂ . Each of the two, as far as formed as an integral part of the housing, flow divider 20-ι, 2O ₂ has exactly four spaced apart, for example, circular cylindrical or conical or each designed as an inner cone, flow openings 20IA, 20IB, 20IC, 20ID and 20 ₂ A. , 20 _2B , 20 _2C , 20 _2D .

In addition, each of, for example, made of steel, flow divider 2O ₁ , 2O ₂ each with a, for example made of steel, flange 6 ₁ and 6 ₂ for connecting the transducer 1 1 to a supply of medium to the sensor serving pipe segment of the pipeline or provided on a the removal of medium from the transducer serving pipe segment of said pipe. Each of the two flanges 6 ₁ , 6 ₂ , according to one embodiment of the invention, a mass of more than 50 kg, esp. Of more than 60 kg and / or less than 100 kg, on. For leak-free, esp. Fluid-tight, connecting the transducer with the respective corresponding pipe segment of the pipeline, each of the flanges further each have a respective, possible planar sealing surface 6IA or 6 ₂ A on. A distance between the two sealing surfaces 6 _1A , 6 _{2A of} both flanges thus practically defines an installation length, L ₁₁ , of the measuring transducer 1 1. The flanges are, in particular with respect to their inner diameter, their respective sealing surface and the receiving the corresponding connecting pin serving flange holes accordingly the nominal nominal diameter D ₁₁ provided for the measuring transducer 1 1 and the relevant industry standards for this, if applicable dimensioned, which corresponds to a caliber of the pipeline, in the course of which the transducer is to be used.

As a result of the ultimately intended for the transducer large nominal diameter whose installation length L ₁₁ according to an embodiment of the invention is more than 1200mm. Furthermore, it is provided to keep the installation length of the transducer 11 as small as possible, esp. Less than 3000mm. The flanges 6 ₁ , 6 ₂ , as well as from Fig. 4 readily apparent and as in such a transducer quite common, for as close to the flow openings of the flow divider 2O ₁ , 2O _{2 be} arranged so as to be as short as possible To create discharge area in the flow dividers and thus to create as short as possible installation length L _{11 of} the transducer, esp. Of less than 3000 mm. According to another embodiment of the invention, the installation length and the nominal nominal diameter of the measuring transducer are adjusted to one another in such a way that a nominal diameter to installation length ratio D ₁₁ / L for a sensor which is as compact as possible with a high mass flow rate of more than 2200 t / h _{11 of} the measuring transducer, defined by a ratio of the nominal nominal diameter D _{11 of} the measuring transducer to the fitting length L _{11 of} the measuring transducer is less than 0.3, in particular less than 0.2 and / or greater than 0.1.

In a further embodiment of the measuring transducer, the transducer housing comprises a substantially tubular middle segment. It is further provided that the transducer housing be dimensioned so that a defined by a ratio of the largest housing inner diameter to the nominal nominal diameter of the measuring transducer housing inner diameter to nominal diameter ratio of the transducer, although greater than 0.9, but less than 1.5 , if possible, is less than 1.2.

In the embodiment shown here close to the inlet and outlet side of the middle segment also further tubular end segments of the transducer housing. For the case shown in the embodiment, that the middle segment and the two end segments as well as the flow divider connected to the respective flange in the lead or outlet respectively have the same inner diameter, the transducer housing can also advantageously by means of a one-piece, for example cast or forged, tube are formed, at the ends of the flanges are formed or welded, and wherein the flow divider means, esp. From the flanges slightly spaced, orbital to the inner wall and / or welded by laser, the flow openings having plates are formed. In particular, in the event that said housing-inner diameter-to-nominal diameter ratio of the transducer is selected equal to one, for manufacturing the transducer housing, for example, one of the pipe to be connected in terms of caliber, wall thickness and material corresponding and insofar also in terms of the permitted operating pressure correspondingly adapted pipe to be used for the selected measuring tube length corresponding to the appropriate length. To simplify the transport of the measuring transducer or of the entire in-line measuring device formed therewith, it is also possible to provide a transport eyelet on the outside and on the outlet side on the outside of the receiver housing, as suggested for example in US Pat. No. 5,073,50421.

For guiding the at least temporarily flowing medium through the pipe and the measuring transducer according to the invention further comprises exactly four vibrating held in the pickup housing 10 just, esp. Parallel to each other and / or the same length, measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , I 8 ₃ , I ₄ , which communicate with the pipeline during operation and are at least temporarily vibrated in at least one vibration mode suitable for determining the physical measured quantity, the so-called payload mode. In particular, useful mode is each bending tube basic mode intrinsically inherent in each of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ and I 8 _4, respectively, which at minimum bending vibration resonance frequency, f ₁₈₁ , f ₁₈₂ , fi ₈₃ and fi ₈₄ , respectively has a vibration abdomen.

Of the four - here substantially circular cylindrical, same length and parallel to each other and the above-mentioned middle tube segment of the transducer housing - a first measuring tube 18 ₁ open with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a first flow opening 20 _{1A of} the first flow divider 2O ₁ and with an outlet second second Meßrohrende in a first flow opening 2O _{2A of} the second flow divider 2O ₂ , a second measuring tube 18 ₂ with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a second flow opening 20 _{1B of} the first flow divider 2O ₁ and with an outlet side second Meßrohrende in a second flow port 20 _{2B of} the second flow divider 2O _second , a third measuring tube 18 ₃ with an inlet-side first Meßrohrende in a third flow port 2O _{1C of} the first flow divider 2O ₁ and with an outlet side second Meßrohrende in a third flow port 20 _{2C of} the second flow divider 2O _second and a fourth measuring tube 18 ₄ having an inlet-side first Meßrohrende in a fourth flow opening 2O _{1D of} the first flow divider 2O ₁ and with an outlet-side second Meßrohrende in a fourth

Flow opening 20 ₂ D of the second flow divider 2O ₂ . The four measuring tubes 18-1, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , I 8 ₄ are thus connected to the, in particular structurally parallel flow paths connected to the, esp. Identical, flow divider 2O ₁ , 2O ₂ , in a vibration, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the Measuring tubes relative to each other as well as relative to the transducer housing enabling manner. It is further provided that the four measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 _{4 are held} only by means of nämlicher flow divider 2O ₁ , 2O ₂ in the pick-up housing 7-ι. The measuring tubes 18i, I8 ₂ , I83, I 8 ₄ or an inner part of the measuring sensor 1 1 formed therewith are, as can be seen from the synopsis of FIGS. 1, 2 and 4 readily apparent and as usual with such transducers, from the transducer housing 7-ι practically completely enveloped. The transducer housing 7-ι serves so far not only as a support frame or holder of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , I8 ₂ , I83, I8 ₄ but also to this, as well as other within the transducer housing 7-ι placed components of Meßaufnehmers to protect against external environmental influences, such as dust or spray. Moreover, the transducer housing 7 ^' ₁ also be designed and dimensioned so that it in case of damage to one or more of the measuring tubes, eg by cracking or bursting, effluent medium to a required maximum pressure inside the transducer housing 7-ι as long as possible completely withhold, with such critical condition, as mentioned for example in the aforementioned US-B 73 92 709, detected and signaled by corresponding pressure sensors and / or based on the mentioned meter electronics in operation internally generated operating parameters can be. As a material for the transducer housing 7-ι can therefore be used in particular steel, such as mild steel or stainless steel, or other suitable or usually suitable for this high-strength materials.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 183, 18 _{4 are} further designed and installed in the transducer 11 that at least the minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies f ₁₈ i, fi8 _{2 of} the first and second measuring tube 18 ₁ , I8 ₂ are substantially the same and at least the minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies f ₁₈₃ , fi8 _{4 of} the third and fourth measuring tubes I83, I 8 ₄ are substantially equal.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, at least the first and the second measuring tube 1S ₁₁ IS ₂ with respect to a material from which their tube walls, and / or with respect to their geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a tube outer diameter and / or a caliber, identical design. Furthermore, at least the third and the fourth measuring tube 18 ₃ , 18 _{4 in} terms of a material from which the tube walls are made, and / or in terms of their geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a tube outer diameter and / or a caliber, identical, so that in the result the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 183, I 8 ₄ at least in pairs are formed substantially identical. According to a further embodiment of the invention, it is further provided here, both the third measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube in such a way that both measuring tubes with respect to their respective geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a tube outer diameter and / or a Caliber, are different from the first measuring tube and the second measuring tube, esp. Such that the minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies of the four measuring tubes are only in pairs equal. By the way created symmetry breaking in the four measuring tubes 18i, I 8 ₂ , 183, I 8 ₄ , inter alia, the sensitivity, the vibration behavior, esp. The mechanical natural frequencies, and / or the cross sensitivity to the primary measurement affecting disturbances, such as a temperature or pressure distribution , the loading of the medium with foreign matter, etc., the two so far different from each other two Meßrohrpaare 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ or I8 ₃ , I 8 ₄ specifically matched to one another and thus an improved diagnosis of the transducer during operation. Of course, the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 183, I 8 ₄ , if necessary, in terms of a material from which the tube walls, and / or in terms of their geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a Outer tube diameter and / or a caliber, but also be realized identical, esp. Such that as a result, the minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies of all four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , I8 ₂ , I8 ₃ , I8 ₄ are substantially equal.

In turn, titanium, zirconium or tantalum is suitable as the material for the tube walls of the measuring tubes. In addition, as material for the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ but also virtually any other conventionally used or at least suitable material serve, esp. Those with a very small thermal expansion coefficient and the highest possible yield strength. For most applications of industrial measurement, esp. In the petrochemical industry, therefore, stainless steel tubes, for example, duplex or super duplex steel, would meet the requirements of mechanical strength, chemical resistance and thermal requirements, so that in numerous Applications, the transducer housing 7i, the flow divider 20i, 2O ₂ as well as the tube walls of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 _{4 can} each consist of steel of sufficiently high quality, which esp. With regard to the material and manufacturing costs as well as the thermally induced dilatation behavior of the transducer 1 1 in operation may be beneficial.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the flow openings of the first flow divider 2O _{1 are} further arranged so that those imaginary centroids, to the plane of the imaginary in a common, perpendicular to a, in particular parallel to a main flow axis of the measuring transducer, longitudinal axis of the measuring transducer extending cutting plane of the first flow divider are - here circular - include cross-sectional areas of the flow openings of the first flow divider, forming the vertices of an imaginary square. Further, the flow openings of the second flow divider 2O ₂ are arranged so that to - here also circular - cross-sectional areas of the flow openings of the second flow divider 2O ₂ associated imaginary centroids form the vertices of an imaginary square, said nämliche cross-sectional areas in turn in a common imaginary, perpendicular to a , in particular parallel to a main flow axis of the measuring transducer, Longitudinal axis of the measuring transducer extending cutting plane of the second flow divider lie. As a result, forms an envelope of the four measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ practically a straight parallelepiped-like body with a vierzählige symmetry having, square-like base, whereby the space requirement of means of the four measuring tubes 18i, 18 ₂ , 18th ₃ , 18 ₄ formed inside part in a compactness of the transducer 11 overall conducive way can be minimized.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, each of the measuring tubes is further arranged in the transducer so that a smallest lateral distance of each of the four - here the same length - measuring tubes of a housing side wall of the transducer housing each greater than zero, esp but greater than 3 mm and / or greater than a double of a respective pipe wall thickness, or that a smallest lateral distance between two adjacent measuring tubes is greater than 3 mm and / or greater than the sum of their respective pipe wall thicknesses. Accordingly, each of the flow openings is further arranged so that a smallest lateral distance of each of the flow openings of a housing side wall of the transducer housing 7-ι each greater than zero, esp. Greater than 3 mm and / or greater than a double of a smallest pipe wall thickness of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ , or that a smallest lateral distance between the flow openings greater than 3 mm and / or greater than a double of a smallest pipe wall thickness of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 _4th is. For this purpose, according to a further embodiment of the invention, the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ and the transducer housing 7-ι matched so dimensioned that a housing-to-measuring tube-inner diameter ratio of the transducer, defined by a Ratio of the largest housing inner diameter to a caliber of at least the first measuring tube is greater than 3, esp. Greater than 4 and / or less than 5, is.

As already mentioned above, when measuring transducer 11, the reaction forces required for the measurement in each medium to be measured by the vibrating the measurement tubes 18 _1, 18 _2, I8 _3, 18 ₄ are effected in the so-called wanted mode. For this, the transducer further comprises a means of at least one of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ acting electro-mechanical, such as electro-dynamic, vibration exciter formed exciter assembly 5, which serves each of the measuring tubes operatively at least temporarily in for concrete measurement in each case suitable oscillations, esp. Of bending vibrations, in the so-called Nutzmode with respectively for the generation and detection of the above-mentioned reaction forces in the medium sufficiently large vibration amplitude to maintain or maintain these Nutzschwingungen. The at least one vibration exciter is used in particular to, one, fed by a corresponding measuring and operating circuit, for example, the above-mentioned Coriolis mass flow meter, electrical _exciter power P _exc in such, eg pulsating or harmonic _{excitatory forces} F _exc , which act on the measuring tubes as simultaneously as possible, but evenly in opposite directions. The excitation _forces F _exc can in the _person skilled in and known _{per se} , for example by means provided in the already mentioned measuring and operating electronics current and / or voltage control circuit, in terms of their amplitude and, for example by means also provided in measuring and operating electronics Phase-locked loop (PLL), are adjusted in frequency, cf. for example, also US-A 48 01 897 or US-B 63 1 1 136th

As a result of medium flowing through the measuring tubes, which are excited to oscillate in the useful mode, Coriolis forces are induced in the medium, which in turn produce an additional, higher

Vibrational modes of the measuring tubes, the so-called Coriolis mode, cause corresponding deformation of the measuring tubes. For example, the measuring tubes 18i, 18 ₂ , 183, I8 ₄ in operation of the ge-held electromechanical exciter assembly to bending vibrations, esp. At a current mechanical natural frequency of the means of the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18, _$ , I 8 ₄ formed inner part, are excited, in which they - at least predominantly - laterally deflected in a respective vibration level and, as shown in the synopsis of FIGS. 3a, 3b and 6a, 6b are readily apparent, in pairs in a common plane of vibration XZ ₁ and XZ ₂ to each other to oscillate in substantially out of phase. This in particular such that of each of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ in operation at the same time running vibrations at least temporarily and / or at least partially each as bending vibrations to a first and the respectively associated second Meßrohrende the respective measuring tube connecting imaginary measuring tube longitudinal axis are formed, wherein the four measuring tube longitudinal axes in the embodiment shown here with four parallel measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 _{4 are} equally parallel to each other, as the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ^ I8 ₄ , and moreover are also substantially parallel to an imaginary connecting the two flow divider and imaginary by a center of gravity of the Meßaufnehmers longitudinal axis of the entire Meßaufnehmers. In other words, as with vibration type transducers, the measuring tubes may be allowed to oscillate, at least in sections, in a flexural mode of vibration, in the manner of a cantilevered string. Accordingly, according to a further embodiment, the first and second measuring tube 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ each in such

Bending vibrations offset, which lie in a common first vibration plane XZ ₁ and are formed so far substantially coplanar. Furthermore, it is provided that the third and fourth measuring tube 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ equally in a common, esp. To the first plane of oscillation XZ ₁ substantially parallel, second oscillation plane XZ ₂ oscillate to each other out of phase, see. this also Fign. 6a, 6b. According to a further embodiment of the invention, the measuring tubes 18i, 18 ₂ , 18 _θ , I 8 ₄ at least partially, in particular predominantly, excited to bending vibrations by means of the exciter 5 in operation, which have a bending vibration frequency, which is approximately equal to a momentary mechanical resonance frequency of the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ comprehensive inner part or is at least in the vicinity of such a natural or resonant frequency. The current mechanical bending vibration resonance frequencies are known to be particularly dependent on the size, shape and material of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 _$ , I 8 ₄ as well as a momentary density of the medium flowing through the measuring tubes and can so far in the operation of the Meßaufnehmers be variable within quite a few kilohertz wide Nutz frequency band. Upon excitation of the measuring tubes

Bieschwwingresonanzfrequenz can be easily determined on the one hand on the basis of the currently excited vibration frequency, an average density of the instantaneous flowing through the four measuring tubes flowing medium. On the other hand, it is also possible to minimize the electrical power currently required for maintaining the oscillations excited in the payload mode. In particular, the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 _$ , 18 ₄ , driven by the

Exciter arrangement, further at least temporarily with substantially the same oscillation frequency, esp. On a common natural mechanical natural frequency of the inner part, left to oscillate. In addition, it is provided the substantially frequency equal swing let measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ so suggest that at least in non-flowing medium, the first and third measuring tube 18 ₁ , 18 ₃ to each other substantially synchronously swing, ie with im essentially the same mode of vibration, essentially the same phase position and approximately the same amplitude of oscillation. In an analogous manner, in this embodiment of the invention, the second and fourth measuring tube 18 ₂ , 18 ₄ are allowed to oscillate substantially synchronously to each other.

The excitation arrangement is designed according to an embodiment of the invention such that the first measuring tube 18 ₁ and the second measuring tube 18 ₂ in operation to opposite phase bending vibrations in the common first vibration level XZ ₁ and the third measuring tube I 83 and the fourth measuring tube 18 ₄ in operation antiphase bending oscillations in the common, in particular to the first plane of vibration XZ ₁ substantially parallel, second vibration level XZ _{2 are} excitable. According to a further embodiment of the invention, the exciter arrangement 5 is for it by means of, esp. Electrodynamic and / or oscillations of the first measuring tube 18 ι relative to the second measuring tube 18 ₂ differentially stimulating, first vibration exciter 5 _'\ formed.

Further, it is provided that the first vibration exciter 5i a a simultaneous, esp. Differentially acting vibration generator of the electrodynamic type is used on at least two of the measuring tubes 18 ι, 18 _2, 18 _3, 18 _4. Accordingly, the first vibration exciter 5 ' _\ further by means of a permanent magnet supported on the first measuring tube and a cylindrical coil flooded by its magnetic field, formed on the second measuring tube, esp. In the manner of a plunger coil arrangement, in which the cylindrical coil is arranged coaxially to the permanent magnet and this is designed as a plunger armature moved within the coil. According to a development of the invention, the exciter arrangement further comprises a, in particular electrodynamic and / or identical to the first vibration exciter O ₁ and / or vibrations of the third measuring tube 18 ₃ relative to the fourth measuring tube 18 ₄ differentially exciting, second vibration exciter 5 _second The two vibration exciters can be electrically connected in an advantageous manner, esp. Such that a common driver signal common vibrations of the first and third measuring tube 18 ₁ , 18 ₃ relative to the second and fourth measuring tube 18 ₂ , 18 ₄ stimulates. According to a further embodiment, the second vibration exciter 5 _{2 is formed} by means of a permanent magnet supported on the third measuring tube and a cylindrical coil through which the magnetic field flows and which is held on the fourth measuring tube.

As shown in FIG. 4, the first oscillation exciter O _{1 is arranged} in above the first and second measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ and insofar also above a common local center of gravity of all four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ , which lies in an imaginary cross-sectional plane passing through the installation site of the vibration generator of the inner part formed by means of the four measuring tubes. As a result of the arrangements of at least one vibration exciter of the exciter assembly 5 outside the above common center of gravity of the four measuring tubes useful torsional vibrations can be excited in addition to bending vibrations in an advantageous manner - simultaneously or intermittently. As a result, in the respective measuring tube 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ or 18 ₄ currently located medium to a considerable extent primarily dependent on the viscosity friction or shear forces are induced, which in turn attenuating and measurable to the extent of the vibrations of the measuring tubes 18 _first , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ and 18 _{4 act} back. Based on this, it is also possible, for example, to determine a viscosity of the medium conducted in the measuring transducer on the basis of the driver signal fed into the excitation system 5, in particular its current intensity, if necessary.

It should also be further noted at this point that, although the vibration exciters of the excitation device shown in the embodiment attack each approximately centered on the measuring tubes, alternatively or in addition also rather on the inlet and outlet side of the respective measuring tube attacking vibration exciter can be used, for example Type of exciter arrangements proposed in US Pat. No. 4,823,614, US Pat. No. 4,831,885, or US Pat. No. 2003/0070495.

As is apparent from Figs. 2 and 4 and usual with sensors of the type in question, is in the transducer 1 1 also on, esp. Inlet and outlet side, vibrations, esp. By means of Exciting arrangement 5 excited bending vibrations, the measuring tubes 18i, I8 ₂ , I83 and I 8 ₄ responsive, for example, electro-dynamic sensor assembly 19 for generating vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the measuring tubes representing Schwingungsmeßsignalen provided, for example, in terms of a frequency, a signal amplitude and / or a phase angle - relative to each other and / or relative to the driver signal - are influenced by the of the measured variable to be detected, such as the mass flow rate and / or the density or a viscosity of the medium.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the sensor arrangement by means of a, in particular electrodynamic and / or at least oscillations of the first measuring tube 1 S ₁ relative to the second measuring tube I8 ₂ differentially detecting, inlet side first vibration sensor 19i and one, esp. Electrodynamic and / or at least vibrations of the first measuring tube 18 ₁ relative to the second measuring tube 18 ₂ differentially detecting, outlet-side second vibration sensor 19 ₂ formed, which two vibration sensors respectively on movements of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 183, 18 ₄ , esp., Their lateral deflections and / or deformations, responsive, provide a first and second Schwingungsmeßsignal. In particular, in such a way that at least two of the vibration measurement signals provided by the sensor assembly 19 have a mutual phase shift corresponding to or dependent on the instantaneous mass flow rate of the medium flowing through the measuring tubes and each having a signal frequency different from a current one Density of the flowing medium in the measuring tubes are dependent. The two, for example, identical to each other, vibration sensors 19- ₁ , 19 ₂ for this - as in measuring transducers of the type in question quite common - be placed substantially equidistant to the first vibration exciter 5-ι in the transducer 1 1. Moreover, the vibration sensors of the sensor arrangement 19 can be designed at least to the extent of at least one vibration exciter of the excitation arrangement 5, as they work analogously to its operating principle, for example, are also of the electrodynamic type. According to one embodiment of the invention, the sensor assembly 19 also also by means of one, esp. Electrodynamic and / or vibrations of the third measuring tube 18 ₃ relative to the fourth measuring tube I8 ₄ differentially detected, inlet side third vibration sensor 19 ₃ and one, esp. Electrodynamic and / or vibrations of the third measuring tube 18 ₃ relative to the fourth

Measuring tube I8 ₄ differentially detected, outlet-side fourth vibration sensor 19 _{4 is} formed. To further improve the signal quality as well as to simplify the measurement signals receiving meter electronics 12 can further the first and third vibration sensor 19- _1, 19 ₃ may be connected electrically in series, for example such that a common oscillation measurement common inlet-side oscillations of the first and third measuring tube 18 ₁ , 18 ₃ relative to the second and fourth measuring tube 18 ₂ , 18 ₄ represents. Alternatively or in addition, the second and fourth vibration sensors 19 ₂ , 19 ₄ can also be electrically serial be interconnected, that a common Schwingungsmeßsignal both vibration sensors 19 ₂ , 19 ₄ common outlet side vibrations of the first and third measuring tube 18-ι, 18 ₃ relative to the second and fourth measuring tube I8 ₂ , I 8 ₄ represents.

For the above-mentioned case, that the vibration sensors of the sensor arrangement 19 are intended to detect oscillations of the measuring tubes differentially and electrodynamically, the first vibration sensor 19i is by means of a permanent magnet to be detected in the area on the inlet side and a permanent magnet supported on the first measuring tube whose magnetic field flooded, on the second measuring tube - here also in the same area on the inlet side to be detected vibrations - held cylindrical coil, and the second

Vibration sensor 19 ₂ by means of a - to be detected in the range oscillations - held on the first measuring tube permanent magnet and one of the magnetic field flooded, held on the second measuring tube - here also in the range on the outlet side to be detected vibrations - cylindrical coil formed. Equally, in addition, the possibly provided third vibration sensor 19 ₃ correspondingly by means of a permanent magnet supported on the third measuring tube and a cylindrical coil supported by the magnetic field, and the possibly provided fourth vibration sensor 19 ₄ by means of a permanent magnet supported on the third measuring tube and one of the magnetic field flooded, be held on the fourth measuring tube held-cylindrical coil.

It should also be noted at this point that although the vibration sensors of the sensor arrangement 19 shown in the exemplary embodiment are in each case of the electrodynamic type, ie in each case by means of a cylindrical magnet coil fixed to one of the measuring tubes and immersed therein, on an opposite measuring tube according to fixed permanent magnets realized vibration sensors is, also other known in the art, such as Opto-electronic, vibration sensors can be used to form the sensor array. Furthermore, as with sensors of the type in question quite common, in addition to the vibration sensors further, esp. Hilfsbzw. Disturbance-detecting, sensors may be provided in the transducer, such. Acceleration sensors, pressure sensors and / or temperature sensors, by means of which, for example, the functionality of the transducer and / or changes in the sensitivity of the Meßsaufnehmers on the primary to be measured variables, esp. The mass flow rate and / or density monitored due to cross-sensitivity or external disturbances and, if necessary . can be compensated accordingly.

To ensure the highest possible sensitivity of the transducer to the mass flow, the measuring tubes are according to a further embodiment of the invention Vibration sensors arranged in the transducer so that a minimum distance between the first vibration sensor 1 E) ₁ and the second vibration sensor 19 ₂ corresponding measuring length, L ₁₉ , the Meßaufnehmers more than 500 mm, esp. More than 600 mm.

The exciter assembly 5 and the sensor assembly 19 are further, as is customary in such Meßaufnehmern suitably coupled with a correspondingly provided in the meter electronics of the measuring and operating circuit, for example, wired by means of appropriate cable connections. The measuring and operating circuit in turn generates on the one hand a driving arrangement 5 corresponding driving, for example in terms of a

Exciter current and / or an exciter voltage regulated, exciter signal. On the other hand, the measuring and operating circuit receives the vibration measuring signals of the sensor arrangement 19 and generates desired measured values which can represent, for example, a mass flow rate, a total mass flow, a density and / or a viscosity of the medium to be measured and which may be indicated on site and / or can also be sent to a data processing system informing the in-line measuring device inform digital Meßdaten and can be further processed there accordingly. The above-mentioned use of differentially acting vibration exciters or vibration sensors in the inner part shown here harbors u.a. also the advantage that for the operation of the transducer according to the invention also such established measuring and operating electronics can be used, as they have found, for example, already in conventional Coriolis Massedurchfluß- / Dichtemeßgeräten wide application.

The meter electronics 12 including the measuring and operating circuit can further be housed, for example, in a separate electronics housing 7 ₂ , which from the

Sensor arranged remotely or, as shown in Fig. 1, to form a single compact device directly on the transducer 1, for example, from the outside of the transducer housing 7i, is fixed. In the embodiment shown here is therefore on the pick-up housing 7-ι further attached to the holders of the electronics housing 7 ₂ serving neck-like transition piece. Within the transition piece may also further, for example by means of glass and / or

Kunststoffverguß produced, hermetically sealed and / or pressure-resistant passage for the electrical connection lines between transducer 11, esp. The vibration exciters and sensors placed therein, and the aforementioned meter electronics 12 may be arranged

As has already been mentioned several times, the in-line measuring device and, to that extent, also the measuring transducer 11 are provided in particular for measurements of high mass flow rates of more than 2200 t / h in a pipeline of large caliber of more than 250 mm. The bill is According to a further embodiment of the invention, the nominal nominal diameter of the transducer 1 1, which, as already mentioned a caliber of the pipeline, in the course of the transducer 1 1 is used, corresponds, selected so that it is more than 100mm, esp. But greater than 300mm is. Furthermore, according to a further embodiment of the measuring transducer is provided that each of the measuring tubes 18i, 18 ₂ , I 8 ₃ , I 8 ₄ each having a respective inner diameter pipe diameter D ₁₈ has, which is more than 60 mm. In particular, the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 _{4 are} further formed so that each has a caliber D ₁₈ of more than 80 mm. Alternatively or in addition to the measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ according to another embodiment of the invention further dimensioned so that they each have a Meßrohrlänge L ₁₈ of at least 1000 mm. The measuring tube length L ₁₈ corresponds to the one shown here

Embodiment with the same length measuring tubes 18-I, I 8 ₂ , I 8 ₃ , 18 ₄ each a minimum distance between the first flow opening 2O _{1A of} the first flow divider 2O ₁ and the first flow opening 20 ₂ A of the second flow divider 2O _second In particular, the measuring tubes I 8- ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ are designed so that their Meßrohrlänge L ₁₈ is greater than 1200 mm.

Accordingly, at least for the case mentioned that the measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , I 8 ₃ , I 8 ₄ made of steel, at the wall thicknesses usually used of about 1 mm, a mass of at least 20 kg, esp. More than 30 kg. Furthermore, however, the aim is to keep the empty mass of each of the measuring tubes 18-1, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ smaller than 50 kg.

Given that, as already mentioned, each of the measuring tubes I 8- _1, 18 _2, 18 _3, 18 ₄ quite weigh well over 20 kg in the invention transducer and thereby, as seen from the above measurements readily a capacity of may well have 10 I or more, then the four measuring tubes I 8- ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ comprehensive inner part at least at high-density medium flowing therethrough reach a total mass of well over 80 kg. Especially with the use of measuring tubes with a comparatively large caliber D ₁₈ , large wall thickness and large measuring tube length L ₁₈ , the mass of the measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ formed inner part readily but also greater than 100 kg or at least with medium flowing through, for example oil or water, more than 120 kg. As a result, a total empty mass M _{11 of} the measuring transducer is also far more than 200 kg, with nominal nominal diameters D ₁₁ of considerably greater than 250 mm, even more than 300 kg. As a result, in the sensor according to the invention, a mass ratio M ₁₁ ZM _{18 of} an empty mass M _{11 of} the entire measuring transducer to an empty mass M _{18 of} the first measuring tube may well be greater than 10, in particular greater than 15.

In order to use as optimally as possible the material used for the above-mentioned high empty masses M _{11 of} the measuring transducer and to that extent the - mostly also very expensive - According to another embodiment, the nominal nominal diameter D _{11 of} the measuring transducer, matched to its empty mass M _11, is dimensioned so that a mass-to-nominal-width ratio M ₁₁ / D _{11 of} the measuring transducer 11, defined by a ratio the unladen mass M _{11 of} the measuring transducer 11 to the nominal nominal diameter D _{11 of} the measuring transducer 1 1 is less than 2 kg / mm, in particular but preferably less than 1 kg / mm. In order to ensure a sufficiently high stability of the transducer 11, the mass-to-nominal width ratio M ₁₁ / D _{11 of} the transducer 1 1, however, at least in the case of using the above-mentioned conventional materials as large as 0.5 kg / mm to choose. Furthermore, according to a further embodiment of the invention for further improving the efficiency of the material used to keep the mentioned mass ratio M ₁₁ ZM ₁₈ smaller than 25.

In order to provide a compact as possible transducer of sufficiently high vibration quality and the lowest possible pressure drop according to a further embodiment of the invention, the measuring tubes, matched to the above-mentioned insertion length L _{11 of} the transducer 11, such that a caliber-to-installation length ratio D ₁₈ / L _{11 of} the measuring transducer, defined by a ratio of the caliber D _{18 of} at least the first measuring tube to the installation length L _{11 of} the measuring sensor 1 1, more than 0.02, esp. More than 0.05 and / or less than 0.09, is. Alternatively or in addition, the measuring tubes 18- ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ , matched to the above-mentioned installation length L _{11 of} the transducer, such that a Meßrohrlänge-to-installation length ratio L ₁₈ / L _{11 of} the transducer , defined by a ratio of the measuring tube length L _{18 of} at least the first measuring tube to the insertion length L _{11 of} the measuring transducer, more than 0.7, esp. More than 0.8 and / or less than 0.95, is.

If necessary, any possible or at least potentially of the vibrating, esp. In the aforementioned manner relatively large-sized, measuring tubes on the inlet side or outlet side in the transducer housing caused mechanical stresses and / or vibrations, eg be minimized by the fact that the four measuring tubes 18i, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ at least in pairs on the inlet and outlet side at least in pairs, respectively by means of coupling elements serving as so-called nodal plates - in the following coupler elements of the first type - are mechanically connected to each other. In addition, by means of such coupling elements of the first kind, be it by their dimensioning and / or their positioning on the measuring tubes mechanical natural frequencies of the measuring tubes and thus also mechanical natural frequencies of the means of the four measuring tubes and attached thereto further components of the measuring transducer formed inner part and extent its vibration behavior be influenced in a targeted way. The coupler elements of the first type serving as nodal plates may be, for example, thin plates, especially made of the same material as the measuring tubes, which in each case correspond to the number and the outer dimensions of the measuring tubes to be coupled to each other, possibly additionally slotted towards the edge , Holes are provided so that the discs are first clamped to the respective measuring tubes 18i, 18 ₂ , I 8 ₃ and I 8 ₄ and, if appropriate, can still be cohesively connected to the respective measuring tube, for example by brazing or welding.

Accordingly, the transducer according to a further embodiment of the invention, a first coupler 24-ι first type, the at least for vibration, esp. Biegeschwingungen of the first measuring tube and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, of the second measuring tube for both spaced apart from the first flow divider and the second flow divider on the inlet side at least at the first measuring tube and the second measuring tube, and a, esp. To the first coupler element identical, second coupler element 24 _{2 of the} first kind, which is to form the outlet side

Vibration node at least for vibrations, in particular bending oscillations, of the first measuring tube I 8 ₁ and for antiphase vibrations, in particular bending vibrations, of the second measuring tube I e ₁ both from the first flow divider 2Oi and from the second flow divider 2O ₂ as well as from the first coupler element 24 ι spaced outlet side at least on the first measuring tube 18-ι and the second measuring tube I 8 _{2 is} fixed. As can be readily seen from FIGS. 4 and 5a, 5b, the first coupler element 24-ι first type for forming inlet-side nodes for vibration, esp. Bending vibrations, the third measuring tube I 8 ₃ and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube 18 ₄ spaced both from the first flow divider 20i and the second flow divider 2O ₂ inlet side also on the third measuring tube 18 ₃ and the fourth measuring tube 184 and the second coupler element 24 ₂ first kind for forming outlet side vibration node at least for vibrations, esp Bending vibrations of the third measuring tube 18 ₃ and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube 18 _{4 from} both the first flow divider 2O ₁ and the second flow divider 2O ₂ as well as the first coupler 24-ι spaced outlet on the third measuring tube I 8 ₃ and fixed on the fourth measuring tube 184, so that in the result every four M Eßrohre 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ are mechanically connected to each other by means of the first coupler 24-ι first type and by means of the second coupler element 24 ₂ first type. Each of the two aforementioned, esp. Same identical, coupler elements 24-ι, 24 ₂ first type is plate-shaped according to another embodiment of the invention, esp. In such a way that, as readily apparent from the synopsis of the figures, a rather rectangular or square, or that it is more a round, an oval, a cross-shaped or, as in the US-A 2006/0283264 proposed, has a rather H-shaped base. Further, the two coupler elements 24-ι, 24 ₂ to be aligned substantially parallel to each other.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5a, 5b readily apparent, the above two coupling elements 24 ι, 24 ₂ are also so constructed and so placed in the measuring transducer, that a center of gravity of the first coupler element 24 ι first type a distance to a Mass center of the transducer 1 1, which is substantially equal to a distance of a center of gravity of the second coupler element 24 ₂ first kind to same center of gravity of the transducer 1 1, esp., So that the two coupler elements 24-ι, 24 ₂ in the result symmetrically one the measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ are arranged in the middle intersecting common imaginary cross-sectional plane.

To further increase the degrees of freedom in the optimization of the vibration behavior of the formed by means of the four measuring tubes 18i, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ inner part of the transducer 1 1 according to a development of the invention further comprises a third coupler element 24 _{3 of the} first kind, for forming inlet-side vibration node at least for vibrations, esp. Bending vibrations of the third measuring tube 183 and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube I 8 ₄ both from the first flow divider 2Oi and the second flow divider 2O ₂ spaced inlet side at least on the third 183 measuring tube and is fixed to the fourth measuring tube 18 ₄ . In addition, the transducer comprises 1 1 in this development, esp. For the third

Coupler element 24 _{3 of the} first kind of identical, fourth coupler element 24 ₄ first type, the at least for vibration, esp. Biegeschwingungen of the third measuring tube 18 ₃ and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube 18 ₄ both from first flow divider 2Oi as well as from the second flow divider 202 as well as the third coupler element 24 ₃ first type spaced outlet side at least on the third measuring tube 18 ₃ and the fourth measuring tube 18 _{4 is} fixed.

Each of the two above-mentioned, in particular identical, third and fourth coupler elements 24 ₃ , 24 _{4 of the} first kind is again plate-shaped, in particular in such a way that it is a rectangular, square, round, cross-shaped or H-shaped according to another embodiment of the invention. having a shaped base. Further, the two aforementioned third and fourth coupler elements 24 ₃ , 24 ₄ are aligned substantially parallel to each other.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5a, 5b, the third coupler element 24 _{3 of the} first type is spaced from the first flow divider 2Oi as well as from the first flow divider 2O ₂ as well as from the first coupler element of the first type 24 on the inlet side, also on the first measuring tube 1 e ₁ and at the second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth coupling element 24 _{4 of the} first kind both from the first flow divider and from second flow divider as well as the second coupler element spaced outlet also fixed to the first measuring tube and the second measuring tube, so that in the result all four measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , I 8 ₄ by means of the third coupler element 24 ₃ first kind and means of the fourth coupler element 24 _{4 of the} first type are mechanically connected to one another.

4, 5a, 5b readily apparent, also the third and fourth coupler elements 24 ₃ , 24 _{4 are} further formed and placed in the transducer so that a center of gravity of the third coupler element 24 ₃ first type a distance from Mass center of the transducer has, which is substantially equal to a distance of a center of gravity of the fourth coupler element 24 ₄ first type to nämlichen

Mass center of the transducer, esp. So that the two coupler elements 24 ₃ , 24 _{4 are arranged} symmetrically as a result to the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ respectively in the middle intersecting common imaginary cross-sectional plane. Further, according to a further embodiment of the invention, the four coupler 24-ι, 24 ₂ , 24 ₃ , 24 _{4 of the} first type arranged in the transducer so that the distance of the center of mass of the third

Coupler element 24 ₃ first type of mass center of the transducer is greater than the distance of the center of mass of the first coupler 24-first type of namely mass center of gravity of the transducer and greater than the distance of the center of gravity of the second coupler element 24 ₂ first type of namely mass center of gravity of the transducer.

As seen from the synopsis of Fign. 4, 5a and 5b readily apparent, defined a minimum distance between the closest to the center of gravity of the transducer 1 1 on the inlet side fixed to the respective measuring tube coupler element of the first kind - here the first coupler 24-ι first type - and the center of mass of the transducer nearest coupling element of the first type fixed on the outlet side of the first measuring tube - in this case the second coupling element 24 _{2 of the} first type - one free _{oscillating length} L _18x , the same measuring tube, whereby according to a further embodiment of the invention the coupling elements of the first type are placed in the measuring transducer, as a result, the free oscillating length of each of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 _{4 is} less than 2500 mm, in particular less than 2000 mm and / or more than 800 mm. Alternatively or in addition, it is further provided that all four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 _{4 have} the same free swinging _length L _18x .

It may also be in the sense of an even simpler and more accurate adjustment of the vibration behavior of the transducer be quite advantageous if the transducer, as proposed for example in US-A 2006/0150750, moreover, further, the formation of inlet and outlet side vibration node for vibrations, in particular bending vibrations, of the first measuring tube and for antiphase vibrations, esp., Biegeschwingungen, the second measuring tube or for vibrations, in particular bending vibrations, the third measuring tube and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube serving coupler elements of the aforementioned type, for example a total of 6 or 8 such coupler elements of the first kind.

In order to provide a compact measuring transducer of sufficiently high vibration quality and high sensitivity with the lowest possible pressure drop according to a further embodiment of the invention, the measuring tubes 18i, I 8 ₂ , I 8 ₃ , I 8 ₄ , tuned to the mentioned free swing length, so dimensioned, that a caliber-to- _vibration ratio D ₁₈ / L _{18x of} the transducer, defined by a ratio of the caliber D _{18 of} the first measuring tube to free _{swing length} L _{18x of} the first measuring tube, more than 0.07, esp. More than 0.09 and / or less than 0.15. Alternatively or in addition to this, according to a further embodiment of the invention, the measuring tubes I 8- ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ , matched to the above-mentioned insertion length L _{11 of} the transducer, so dimensioned that a vibration length-to-installation length Ratio L _18x / L ₁₁ of

Meßaufnehmers defined by a ratio of the free swing length L _{18x of} the first measuring tube to the installation length L _{11 of} the transducer, more than 0.55, esp. More than 0.6 and / or less than 0.9, is.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the vibration sensors, matched to the free vibration length, arranged in the transducer so that a Meßlänge-to-Schwinglänge- ratio of the Meßaufnehmers, defined by a ratio of the mentioned Meßlänge of the Meßaufnehmers to free swing length of the first measuring tube, more than 0.6, in particular more than 0.65 and / or less than 0.95.

In order to create a compact as possible, but as sensitive as possible for the mass flow transducer according to a further embodiment of the invention, the vibration sensors, matched to the installation length of the transducer so arranged in the transducer that a Meßlänge-to-installation length ratio of the transducer, which by a ratio of the measuring length to the installation length of the measuring transducer is defined to be more than 0.3, in particular more than 0.4 and / or less than 0.7. Alternatively or in addition, the vibration sensors according to a further embodiment of the invention, matched to the measuring tubes, so placed in the transducer that a caliber to Meßlänge ratio D ₁₈ / L ₁₉ , the Meßaufnehmers, which by a ratio of the caliber D _18th of the first measuring tube to the measuring length L _{19 of} the measuring transducer is defined, more than 0.05, esp. More than 0.09, is. According to a further embodiment of the invention, the above-mentioned measuring length L ₁₉ is also kept smaller than 1200 mm. According to a further embodiment of the invention is also provided, the measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , I 8 ₃ , I 8 ₄ in operation in pairs in synchronism, ie with the same phase position, and insofar the vibrations of all four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18th ₃ , 18 ₄ to match each other accordingly, that the measuring tubes are only allowed to swing in pairs out-of-phase. Advantageously, the vibration behavior of the means of the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ together with the exciter and the sensor assembly formed inner part as well as the exciter assembly controlling driver signals are coordinated so that at least the oscillations excited in Nutzmode the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , I 8 ₃ , 18 ₄ are formed so that the first and the second measuring tube 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ to each other substantially in opposite phases, ie with a mutual

Phase shift of about 180 °, swing and also the third and the fourth measuring tube I 8 ₃ , I 8 ₄ oscillate to each other substantially in opposite phases, while simultaneously the first and third measuring tube 18 ₁ , 18 ₃ oscillate to each other substantially in phase and the second and fourth Measuring tube 18 ₂ , I 8 ₄ swing each other substantially in phase.

Therefore, the transducer according to a further embodiment of the invention further comprises a, in particular plate-shaped or rod-shaped, first coupler element 25-ι second type, especially for synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bending vibrations of the first measuring tube I 8 ₁ and of the same frequency-like vibrations, esp . bending vibrations of the third measuring tube 18 ₃ both from the first coupling element 24 ι first type and the second coupling element 24 ₂ of the first type spaced on the first measuring tube I e ₁ and the third measuring tube 18 ₃ but otherwise in any other of the measuring tubes, so far, only is fixed to the first measuring tube I 8 ₁ and the third measuring tube I 8 ₃ . Furthermore, at least in this embodiment of the invention, the measuring transducer comprises at least one, in particular plate-shaped or rod-shaped, second coupler element 25 _{2 of the} second type, which is used to synchronize vibrations, in particular bending vibrations, of the second

Measuring tube 18 ₂ and of the same frequency vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube I 8 ₄ both from the first coupler 24-ι first type and from the second coupler 24-ι first type as well as from the first coupler element 25-ι second type spaced on second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth measuring tube I 8 ₄ but otherwise no other of the measuring tubes, so far only on the second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth measuring tube 18 _{4 is} fixed. As can readily be seen from the synopsis of FIGS. 4, 5 a and 5 b, the first and second coupler elements 25, 25 _{2 of the} second type are placed as far as possible opposite each other in the measuring transducer 11.

One advantage of the mechanical coupling of the measuring tubes in the manner described above can be seen, inter alia, that the four measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ are reduced to two measuring tube composites each effective as a vibration system, each of which is practical like a single one Measuring tube act because the excitation forces generated by the exciter assembly 5 due to the mechanical coupling both between the first and the second measuring tube 18-ι, 18 ₂ and equally between the third and fourth measuring tube I8 ₃ , I 8 ₄ act or even the For purposes of measurement in the media flowing therethrough reaction forces are each transmitted together to the vibration sensors of the sensor assembly 5 back. Furthermore, any differences between the individual measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 _{4 in} terms of their nominal vibration behavior, eg due to uneven flow, different temperature and / or different density distribution, etc., be compensated in a very simple manner. The use of coupler elements of the second type also has the advantage that each of the two measuring tube composites thus formed in a very simple manner not only for the excitation but also for the sensor assembly 19 and thus also for the measuring and operating circuit of the Meßgerät- Electronics 12 in total practically each acts as a single measuring tube and the transducer 1 1 so far apparently from the point of view of the measuring and operating circuit has only two oscillating against each allowed measuring tubes. As a result, at least for the preprocessing and any digitization of the Schwingungsmeßsignale proven signal processing technologies and proven, especially two-channel, so supplied by only two vibration sensors Schwingungsmeßsignale processing, measuring circuits from the field of Coriolis mass flow or the density measurement can be used. Equally, therefore, the operating circuit driving the exciter arrangement can also readily be used by the person skilled in the art, especially one-channel, ie exactly one driver signal for the exciter arrangement, which supplies driver circuits. If necessary, but also supplied by the two or more vibration sensors each Schwingungsmeßsignale but also individually in each separate measuring channels pre-processed and digitized accordingly; Similarly, if necessary, the possibly existing two or more vibration exciter can be controlled separately by means of separate driver signals.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ and the coupler elements interconnecting them are therefore further shaped and mechanically coupled to each other by means of coupler elements of the second kind, if necessary also by coupler elements of the first type a first measuring tube composite formed by the first and the third measuring tube 18 ₁ , 18 ₃ and a second measuring tube composite formed by the second and the fourth measuring tube 18 ₂ , 18 _{4 have} substantially the same mechanical natural frequencies.

In the embodiment shown here, the first coupler element 25i second type in the range of 50% of a minimum distance between the first coupler element 24-ι first type and the second coupler element 24 ₂ first type on the first and third measuring tube 18 ₁ , 18 ₃ fixed - in this respect so at approximately half the free oscillation length of the first and third measuring tube 18i, 183. Furthermore, the second coupler element of the second type is also correspondingly in the range of 50% of a minimum distance between the first coupler element 24-ι first type and the second coupler element 24 ₂ first type on the second and fourth measuring tube 18 ₂ , 18 ₄ fixed, ie at about half the free oscillation length of the second and fourth measuring tube I8 ₂ , I8 _4th

In an advantageous manner, the coupler elements of the second type can additionally serve as a holder for components of the excitation arrangement 5. Therefore, according to a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that each of the, in particular identical, vibration exciter 5i, 5 ₂ proportionally each at two opposing coupler elements of the second kind - - here the first and second coupler element 25-ι, 25 ₂ - is supported. Thus, it can be ensured in a very effective, but very simple manner that the excitation force generated by the vibration exciter 5i at least predominantly synchronous, esp. Also substantially mutually substantially in phase, bending vibrations of the first and third measuring tube 18 ₁ , 18 ₃ and the second and fourth Measuring tube 18 ₂ , 18 ₄ causes. For example, in the case of electro-dynamic vibration exciter, the respective cylindrical coil can be fixed on the first and the respectively associated permanent magnet on the opposite second coupling element of the second kind. For the mentioned case that the exciter assembly 5 has two vibration exciters 5 ' _\ , 5 ₂ , both the first vibration exciter O ₁ and the second vibration exciter 5 _{2 can} each be supported on the first and second coupler elements 25i, 25 _{2 of the} second kind, for example also in FIG the way that, as readily apparent from FIGS. 4 and 5a, a minimum distance between the first and second vibration exciter 5 ' _\ , 5 _{2 is} more than twice as large as a tube outer diameter of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 _4, but at least the first measuring tube 18 ₁ . This overall optimal utilization of the space offered in the interior of the pick-up housing 7- _\ as well as a simple installation of the vibration exciter 5i, 5 ₂ allows.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the transducer further comprises a, for example turn plate-shaped or rod-shaped, third coupler element 25 ₃ second type, for synchronizing vibrations, esb. Bending vibrations of the first measuring tube and I8 ₁ of the same frequency-like vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the third measuring tube 18 _{3 from} both the first coupler element 24-ι first type and from the second coupler element 24 ₂ first type as well as from the first coupler element 25-ι second kind spaced on the first measuring tube Ie ₁ and the third measuring tube I8 ₃ but otherwise no other the measuring tubes, so far only on the first measuring tube Ie ₁ and the third measuring tube 18 _{3 is} fixed, and a, esp. Plate-shaped or rod-shaped, fourth coupler element 25 ₄ second type, for synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bieschwings, the second measuring tube 18th ₂ and of the same frequency vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth Measuring tube 18 _{4 from} both the first and second Coupler element of the first kind as well as the second and third coupler element of the second type each spaced on the second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth measuring tube 18 ₄ but otherwise on no other of the measuring tubes, so far only on the second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth measuring tube I8 _{4 is} fixed. The third and fourth coupler element 25 ₃ , 25 ₄ second type, as readily apparent from the synopsis of Fig. 4, 5a and 5b, preferably placed opposite each other in the transducer 1 1.

Further, the transducer comprises 1 1 according to a further embodiment of the invention, a particular plate-shaped or rod-shaped, fifth coupler element 25 ₅ second type, for synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bending vibrations, the first measuring tube I e ₁ and of the same frequency-like vibrations, esp Bending vibrations of the third measuring tube I8 ₃ both from the first and second coupler element of the first kind and from the first and third coupler element of the second kind spaced on the first measuring tube Ie ₁ and the third measuring tube 18 ₂ but otherwise no other of the measuring tubes, so far only on the first Measuring tube I 8 ₁ and the third measuring tube 18 _{2 is} fixed, and a, esp. Plate-shaped or rod-shaped, sixth coupler element 25β second type, for synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bending vibrations, the second measuring tube and the same frequency-like vibrations, esp. Bending vibrations , the fourth measuring tube from both the first and second Kopplerelem Ent first type and the second, fourth and fifth coupler element of the second type each spaced on the second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth measuring tube 18 ₄ but otherwise on no other of the measuring tubes, so far only on the second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth measuring tube 18 ₄ fixed is. The fifth and sixth coupler element 25 ₅ , 25 ₆ second type are placed in preferably in turn opposite each other in the transducer 1 1.

Furthermore, it may be advantageous to use the aforementioned coupler elements of the second type also for holding individual components of the sensor arrangement. Accordingly, it is provided according to a further embodiment of the invention that the inlet-side first vibration sensor 19- _{I is} proportionally supported respectively on the third and fourth coupler element 25 ₃ , 25 ₄ second type. Furthermore, the second vibration sensor 19 _{2 is supported} in a corresponding manner on the fifth and sixth coupler element 25 ₅ , 25 ₆ second type. Thus, it can be ensured in a very effective, yet very simple manner, that the oscillation measurement signal generated by the first oscillation sensor ₁ i at least predominantly synchronous, in particular also in phase, inlet-side bending oscillations of the first and third measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 183 relative to the Equally synchronized, esp. Also in each other in phase, inlet side bending vibrations of the second and fourth measuring tube 18 ₂ , 18 ₄ represents, or that the means of the second vibration sensor 19 ₂ generated in operation Schwingungsmeßsignal at least predominantly synchronous, esp., Also phase coincidental, outlet side bending vibrations of the First and third measuring tube 18i, I 8 ₃ relative to the equally synchronized, esp. Also each other in phase, outlet side bending vibrations of the second and fourth measuring tube I 8 ₂ , I 8 ₄ represents. For example, in the case of electro-dynamic vibration sensors, the cylindrical coil of the first vibration sensor 1 E ⁾ ₁ on the third coupler element of the second type and the associated permanent magnet on the opposite fourth coupler element of the second kind or the cylindrical coil of the second vibration sensor 19 ₂ on the fifth and the associated permanent magnet on the opposite sixth Coupler element of the second kind can be fixed. For the mentioned case in which the sensor assembly 19 is formed by means of four vibration sensors 19-ι, 19 _2, 19 _3, 19 _4, both the first oscillation sensor 19-ι and the third vibration sensor 19 ₃ are respectively in proportion to a further embodiment of the invention held on the third and fourth coupler element of the second type, esp. Such that, as is readily apparent from the synopsis of Fig. 4, 5a and 5b, a minimum distance between the first and third vibration sensor 19-ι, 19 ₃ more than twice is large, such as a tube outer diameter of the first measuring tube 18 _first In a corresponding manner, also the second vibration sensor 19 ₂ and the fourth vibration sensor 19 _{4 can} each be supported on the fifth and sixth coupler element of the second kind, esp. In such a way that, as from the synopsis of Fig. 4, 5a and 5b readily can be seen, a minimum distance between the second and fourth vibration sensor 19 ₂ , 19 ₄ more than twice as large as a tube outer diameter of the first measuring tube 18 ₁ , whereby a total of optimal utilization of the interior of the transducer housing 7-ι offered Platzes as well as a simple installation of the vibration sensors of the

Sensor arrangement 19 is possible. Therefore, according to a further embodiment of the invention, each of the, in particular identical, vibration sensors of the sensor assembly 19 is supported on two opposing coupler elements of the second kind.

To further improve the vibration quality of the inner part with the shortest possible installation length L _{11 of} the transducer 1 1 or the shortest possible free _{swing length} L _{18x of} the measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ and 18 _4, the transducer according to another embodiment of the invention comprises a Variety of annular, esp. Each other identical, stiffening elements 22 _1A , ... 22 ₂ A, ... 223A, ... 22 ₄ A, ... each of which on exactly one of the measuring tubes I 8 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ is mounted so that it along one of its, esp. Circular circumferential, imaginary

Encompasses peripheral lines, cf. For this purpose, it is further provided that on each of the measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ and 18 ₄ , at least four, esp. Identical, similar stiffening elements 22 _1A , 22 _1B , 22 _1C , 22 _1D and 22 _2A , 22 _2B , 22 _2C , 22 _2D and 22 _3A , 22 _3B , 22 _3C , 22 _3D and 22 _4A , 22 _4B , 22 _4C , 22 _4D, respectively. The stiffening elements 22 _1A , ... 22 _2A , ... 22 _3A , ... 22 _4A , ... are placed in an advantageous manner in the transducer 1 1 that two attached to the same measuring tube, adjacent stiffening elements to each other at a distance containing at least 70% of an outer tube diameter of the same measuring tube, but at most 150% selbigen tube outer diameter is. In this case, a mutual spacing of adjacent stiffening elements which is in the range of 80% to 120% of the tube outer diameter of the respective measuring tube 18i, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ or I 8 ₄ has proved particularly suitable. Alternatively or in addition to improve the vibration characteristics of the inner part and to that extent also to improve the measurement accuracy of the transducer is further provided that the transducer, as shown in FIGS. 7, 8a, 8b shown schematically, furthermore plate-shaped stiffening elements 26i, 26 ₂ , 26 ₃ , 26 ₄ for adjusting the natural natural frequencies of bending vibrations of the measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ and 18 ₄ in those planes of vibration YZ ₁ , YZ ₂ , which, as synonymous with the Fign. 3a, 3b, are substantially perpendicular to the above-mentioned vibration plane XZ ₁ , XZ ₂ . The, for example, identical, plate-shaped stiffening elements 26-ι, 26 ₂ , 26 ₃ , 26 ₄ are in particular so designed and connected in each case with the measuring tubes that, as a result, at least the bending vibration resonance frequencies of the bending vibrations of the measuring tubes 18-ι, 18 ₂ , I 8 ₃ or I 8 ₄ are always lower in the in the aforementioned - primary - vibration levels XZ ₁ , XZ ₂ Nutzmode, as the natural natural frequencies of

Bending vibrations of the measuring tubes, which are of the same modal order as the Nutzmode, but within the - so far secondary - vibration levels YZ ₁ , YZ ₂ would be performed. This can be achieved in a very simple, but very effective manner with respect to the respective resonant frequencies of the measuring tubes, a significant separation of the bending modes of the measuring tubes in mutually perpendicular - here primary and secondary - vibration levels of the inner part and the measuring tubes.

For this, the transducer comprises in a further, from the synopsis of Figs. 7, 8a, 8b readily apparent, embodiment of the invention, a first plate-shaped stiffening element 26- _I , for adjusting one or more resonant frequencies of bending vibrations of the first measuring tube 18-ι and of the third measuring tube 18 ₃ in one of the - primary - vibration levels XZ ₁ and XZ ₂ each substantially perpendicular - secondary - third vibration plane YZ ₁ at the first measuring tube 18-ι and the third measuring tube 18 _{3 is} fixed, each at one between the first vibration exciter 5-ι and the first flow divider 2O ₁ lying segment 18'i, 18 ' _{3 of} the first and third measuring tube 18-ι, 18 _3rd

Furthermore, in this embodiment of the invention, the measuring transducer comprises a second plate-shaped stiffening element 26 ₂ , which is used to set one or more resonance frequencies of bending oscillations of the second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth measuring tube I 8 ₄ in one of the - primary - vibration levels XZ ₁ or XZ ₂ substantially perpendicular - so far as far as the aforementioned third vibration level YZ ₁ substantially parallel, secondary - fourth vibration level YZ ₂ on the second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth measuring tube 18 _4th is fixed, namely in each case at a lying between the first vibration exciter 5i and the first flow divider 2O ₁ segment 18 ' ₂ , 18' _{4 of} the second and fourth measuring tube 18 ₂ , 18 _4th In addition, the transducer has a third plate-shaped stiffening element 26 ₃ , which is fixed for setting nämlicher resonant frequencies of the first measuring tube I e ₁ and the third measuring tube 18 ₃ in the third plane of vibration YZ ₁ on the first measuring tube 18- ₁ and the third measuring tube 18 ₃ - here each at a lying between the first vibration exciter 5-ι and the second flow divider 2O ₂ segment 18 "i, 18 ^π _{3 of} the first and third measuring tube 18-ι, 18 ₃ - and a fourth plate-shaped stiffening element 26 ₄ , the same for adjusting Resonant frequencies of the second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth measuring tube 18 ₄ in the fourth plane of vibration YZ ₂ on the second measuring tube 18 ₂ and the fourth measuring tube 18 _{4 is} fixed - here in each case also between the first vibration exciter 5-ι and the second flow divider 2O _second lying segment 18 " ₂ , 18" _{4 of} the second and fourth measuring tube 18 ₂ , 18 _4. Here, for example, the first and second plate-shaped stiffening elements 26 _1; 26 ₂ each between the first vibration sensor 1 E) ₁ and the first flow divider 2O ₁ , esp. Also between the above-mentioned first and third coupler elements 24 _1; 24 ₃ first type and the third and fourth plate-shaped stiffening element 26 ₃ , 24 ₄ each between the second vibration sensor 19 ₂ and the second flow divider 2O ₂ , esp. Also be placed between the above-mentioned second and fourth coupler elements 24 ₂ , 24 ₄ first type , The plate-shaped stiffening elements, for example, but also be arranged in the transducer that, as well as from the synopsis of Fig. 7, 8a, 8b seen, the first and second plate-shaped stiffening element 26-ι, 26 ₂ each between the first coupler 24- _I. first type and the first vibration sensor 1 E) _{1 is} placed; and the third and fourth plate-shaped stiffening elements 26 ₃ , 26 _{4 are} each placed between the second coupler element 24 _{2 of the} first type and the second vibration sensor 1 E) ₂ .

The plate-shaped stiffening elements can be connected by soldering or welding with the respective measuring tubes. For example, the stiffening elements can be connected to the measuring tubes in such a way that, as can be seen from the synopsis of Fig. 7, 8a, 8b, the first plate-shaped stiffening element 26-ι at the between the first vibration sensor 1 E) ₁ and first flow divider 2O ₁ lying segment 18'-ι of the first measuring tube 18-ι along one of its straight side lines - here about the third measuring tube 18 ₃ nearest - and at the same between the first vibration sensor 1 E) ₁ and the first flow divider 2O ₁ lying segment 18 ' _{3 of} the third measuring tube I 8 ₃ along one of its straight side lines - here about the first measuring tube nearest- be fixed. And the second plate-shaped stiffening element 26 ₂ are then in manner analogous thereto located at the first in each case between the vibration sensor 1 E) ₁ and the first flow divider 2O ₁ segments 18 _'2 or 18' ₄ of the second and fourth measuring tube 18 _2, 18 ₄ , the third plate-shaped stiffening element 26 ₃ at the respectively between the second vibration sensor 19 ₂ and the second flow divider 2O ₂ lying segments 18 "-ι or 18" _{3 of} the first and third measuring tube 18 ₁ , 183 and the fourth plate-shaped stiffening element 26 ₄ to each between The second oscillation sensor 19 ₂ and the second flow divider 2O ₂ lying segment 18 " ₂ , 18'V of the second and fourth measuring tube 18 ₂ , I8 ₄ to fix accordingly, respectively along one of the straight side lines of the respective measuring tube Sufficient separation of the resonant frequencies of each of the four plate-shaped stiffening elements 26-ι, 26 ₂ , 26 ₃ , 26 ₄ according to a further embodiment of the invention further each formed and placed in the transducer so that there is a smallest distance between the side lines of those two measuring tubes 18 ₁ , 18 ₃ and 18 ₂ , 18 ₄ , along which it is fixed in each case, corresponding Hö He, which is smaller than a measured in the direction of the same side lines length of the respective plate-shaped stiffening element 26i, 26 ₂ , 26 ₃ , 26 ₄ , for example, such that the height is less than 50%, esp. Less than 30%, nämlicher length , Furthermore, it is advantageous if each of the four plate-shaped stiffening elements 26- _I , 26 ₂ , 26 ₃ , 26 ₄ also each formed so that the length of each of the plate-shaped

Stiffening elements is greater, for example, more than twice, esp. More than 5 times, as a - transverse to length and height measured - associated width of the same plate-shaped stiffening element 26i, 26 ₂ , 26 ₃ , 26 _4th As an alternative to fixing to the side lines which are closest to each other, however, the stiffening elements can also be designed, for example, and in particular also while maintaining the aforesaid height-to-width-to-length ratios, and with the

Measuring tubes are connected so that each of the stiffening elements, the respective two measuring tubes substantially tangentially contacted, for example, each along the outermost or each along the innermost side line of each of the measuring tubes.

By using four measuring tubes instead of two flowed through in parallel, it is thus also possible to use measuring transducers of the type described also for large mass flow rates or with large nominal diameters of well over 250 mm with an accuracy of more than 99.8% with an acceptable Pressure drop, esp. Of about 1 bar or less, inexpensive to manufacture and on the other hand to keep the installation dimensions and the empty mass such Meßaufnehmer so far that despite large nominal size, the production, transport, installation as well as operation still made economically sensible can. Especially by implementing above explained, the invention further ausgestaltender measures - individually or in combination - can be carried out and dimensioned so that a by a ratio of the above-mentioned dummy mass of the transducer to a measuring transducer of the type in question even with a large nominal nominal size Total mass of the means of the four measuring tubes and the Erhaltger- and sensor arrangement held thereon and possibly further fixed to the measuring tubes and their vibration behavior influencing components of the transducer formed inner part defined mass ratio of the Meßaufnehmers readily below 3, esp. Less than 2.5, can be maintained.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS

A vibration-type transducer for detecting at least one physical quantity of fluid in a pipeline, in particular a gas, a liquid, a powder or another fluid, and / or for detecting a mass flow rate of a pipeline flowable medium, in particular a gas, a liquid, a powder or another fluid, serving Corioliskräfte, which comprises:

- A tubular and / or outer circular cylindrical transducer housing (7-ι), of which an inlet side first housing end by means of a precisely four each spaced apart, esp. circular cylindrical, conical or conical, flow openings (20-IA, 20-IB, 20IC , 20-ID) having inlet side first flow divider (20-ι) and a Auslaßseitiges second housing end by means of a precisely four each spaced apart, esp. Circular cylindrical, conical or conical, flow openings (20 ₂ A, 20 ₂ B, 20 ₂ C, 20th ₂ D) having outlet-side second flow divider (2O ₂ ) are formed, wherein the transducer housing (7-ι) has a largest housing inner diameter, D ₇ , which is greater than 150 mm, esp. Greater than 250 mm;

- Just four under flow-parallel flow paths connected to the, esp. Identical, flow divider (20i, 2O ₂ ) connected, esp. Only by means of similar

Flow divider (2O ₁ , 2O ₂ ) in the transducer housing vibrationally supported and / or identical and / or at least in pairs parallel, straight measuring tubes (I 8 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , I 8 ₄ ) for guiding flowing medium, from to those

- a, esp. Circular cylindrical, first measuring tube (I 8 ₁ ) with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a first flow opening (20 _1A ) of the first flow divider (2O ₁ ) and with an outlet side second Meßrohrende in a first flow opening (20 ₂ A) of the second flow divider (2O ₂ ) opens,

- A, esp. Circular cylindrical, second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a second flow opening (20-IB) of the first flow divider (2O ₁ ) and with an outlet side second Meßrohrende in a second flow port (20 _2B ) of the second

Flow divider (2O ₂ ) opens,

- A, esp. Circular cylindrical, third measuring tube (18 ₃ ) with an inlet-side first Meßrohrende in a third flow opening (20-ιc) of the first flow divider (2O ₁ ) and with a outlet second second Meßrohrende into a third flow opening (20 ₂ c) of the second flow divider (2O ₂ ) opens and

- A, esp. Circular cylindrical, fourth measuring tube (I 8 ₄ ) with an inlet side first Meßrohrende in a fourth flow opening (20 _1D ) of the first flow divider (2O ₁ ) and with an outlet side second Meßrohrende in a fourth flow opening (20 _2D ) of the second

Flow divider (2O ₂ ) opens; such as

- An electro-mechanical, esp. By means of electro-dynamic vibration exciter (5i, 5 ₂ ) formed exciter assembly (5) for generating and / or maintaining mechanical vibrations, esp. Of bending vibrations, the four measuring tubes (18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ), wherein the

Exciter arrangement is designed such that thus the first measuring tube (I8 ₁ ) and the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) in operation to opposite phase bending vibrations in a common imaginary first plane of vibration (XZ ₁ ) and the third measuring tube (18 ₃ ) and the fourth measuring tube ( I8 ₄ ) in operation opposite-phase bending vibrations in a common imaginary, in particular to the first plane of vibration (XZ ₁ ) substantially parallel, second vibration plane (XZ ₂ ) are excitable.

2. A transducer according to the preceding claim, wherein a housing to Meßrohr- inner diameter ratio, D ₇ / D ₁₈ , the Meßaufnehmers, defined by a ratio of the largest housing inner diameter, D ₇ , to a caliber, D ₁₈ , the first measuring tube is greater than 3, in particular greater than 4 and / or less than 5, is.

3. A sensor according to the preceding claim, wherein an empty mass, M ₁₁ , of the Meßaufnehmers greater than 200 kg, esp. Greater than 300 kg, is.

4. A transducer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a nominal nominal diameter, D ₁₁ , of the measuring transducer, which corresponds to a caliber of the pipeline, in the course of which the measuring transducer is to be used, is more than 100 mm, in particular greater than 300 mm.

5. A transducer according to claim 3 and 4, wherein a mass-to-nominal-width ratio, M ₁₁ ZD ₁₁ , of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the dummy mass, M ₁₁ , of the transducer to the nominal nominal diameter, D ₁₁ , of the transducer is less than 2 kg / mm, esp. Less than 1 kg / mm and / or greater than 0.5 kg / mm, is.

6. A transducer according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first flow divider (2O ₁ ) has a flange (6- ₁ ) for connecting the transducer to a supply of medium to the measuring transducer serving pipe segment of the pipeline and the second flow divider (2O ₂ ) a Have flange (6 ₂ ) for connecting the transducer to a pipe for removing the medium from the transducer serving pipe segment of the pipeline.

7. A transducer according to claim 6, wherein each of, in particular each having a mass of more than 50 kg, flanges (6 ₁ , 62) each have a sealing surface (6IA, 6 _2A ) for fluid-tight connection of the

Measuring transducer having the respective corresponding pipe segment of the pipeline, and wherein a distance between the sealing surfaces (6IA, 6 _2A ) of both flanges (6 ₁ , 6 ₂ ) amounts to one, in particular more than 1200 mm and / or amounts to less than 3000 mm, Insertion length, L ₁₁ , of the measuring transducer defined.

8. A transducer according to claim 4 and 7, wherein a nominal diameter to installation length ratio, D ₁₁ ZL ₁₁ , the Meßaufnehmers, defined by a ratio of the nominal nominal diameter of the transducer to the installation length of the transducer is less than 0.3, esp. Less than 0.2 and / or greater than 0.1.

A transducer according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein a housing inner diameter to nominal diameter ratio, D ₇ / D- ₁ - ₁ , of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the largest housing inner diameter, D ₇ , to the nominal diameter, D ₁₁ , the transducer is less than 1.5, esp. Less than 1 .2 and / or greater than 0.9, esp. Such that the housing inner diameter-to-nominal diameter ratio, D ₇ ZD ₁₁ , the measuring transducer equal to one is.

10. A sensor according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising

- A, esp. plate-shaped, first coupler element (24-ι) of the first kind, the at least for vibration, esb., Biegeschwingungen of the first measuring tube and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, of the second measuring tube both from the first Flow divider as well as the second flow divider spaced on the inlet side at least at the first measuring tube and the second measuring tube is fixed, esp., Such that all four measuring tubes (18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , I 8 ₄ ) by means of the first coupler element (24-ι ) First type are mechanically connected to each other, as well

a second coupler element (24 ₂ ) of the first type which is parallel to the first coupler element (24-1) and / or parallel to the first coupler element (24-1) and which is used for forming outlet-side vibration nodes at least for vibrations, In particular bending vibrations, the first measuring tube and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the second measuring tube from both the first flow divider and the second flow divider as well as the first coupler spaced outlet side at least on the first measuring tube and on second measuring tube is fixed, in particular such that all four measuring tubes (18i, I8 ₂ , I83, I8 ₄ ) by means of the second coupler element (24 ₂ ) of the first kind are mechanically connected to each other.

11. The transducer according to the preceding claim, - wherein the first coupler element (24-ι) of the first kind also on the third measuring tube (I8 ₃ ) and the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) is fixed, and wherein the second coupler element of the first type on the third measuring tube and is fixed to the fourth measuring tube; and or

- wherein a center of gravity of the first coupler element of the first type has a distance to a center of mass of the measuring transducer, which is substantially equal to a distance of a center of mass of the second coupler element of the first kind to namely the center of mass of the measuring transducer.

12. A sensor according to any one of claims 10 to 11, further comprising

a, esp. plate-shaped, third coupler element (24 ₃ ) of the first type, the at least for vibration, esp. Biegeschwingungen of the third measuring tube (183) and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, of the fourth measuring tube for forming inlet side vibration ( 18 ₄ ) is spaced from both the first flow divider and the second flow divider on the inlet side at least on the third measuring tube (18 ₃ ) and on the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ), in particular such that all four measuring tubes (I8 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) are mechanically connected to each other also by means of the third coupler element (24 ₃ ) of the first kind, as well as

- A, esp. Plate-shaped, fourth coupler element (24 ₄ ) of the first kind, the at least for vibration, esp. Biegeschwingungen of the third measuring tube (18 ₃ ) and for anti-phase vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube for forming outlet-side nodes (18 ₄ ) at both the first flow divider and the second flow divider as well as the third coupler element of the first kind spaced outlet side at least on the third measuring tube (18 ₄ ) and the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) is fixed, in particular such that all four measuring tubes ( I8 ₁ , I8 ₂ , 18 ₃ , I8 ₄ ) are mechanically connected to each other by means of the fourth coupler element (24 ₄ ) of the first kind.

13. A sensor according to claim 12,

- wherein the third coupler element of the first kind each spaced from the first and second coupler element of the first type both on the first measuring tube and on the second measuring tube, and the fourth coupler element of the first kind respectively spaced from the first and second coupler element of the first type both on the first measuring tube and on the second measuring tube are fixed; and / or wherein a center of gravity of the third coupler element of the first type is at a distance from a center of gravity of the transducer substantially equal to a distance of a center of gravity of the fourth coupler element of the first type Mass center of the transducer, esp. Such that the distance of the center of gravity of the third coupler element of the first type of the center of gravity of the transducer is greater than a distance of the center of gravity of the first coupler element of the first kind of namely mass center of gravity of the transducer and greater than a distance of the center of gravity of the second coupler element of the first kind of namely mass center of gravity of the transducer is.

14. A transducer according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein a minimum distance between the first coupler element of the first type and the second coupler element of the first type corresponding free _{swing length} , L _18x , the first measuring tube, esp. Each of the measuring tubes, less than 2500 mm, in particular less than 2000 mm and / or more than 800 mm.

15. A transducer according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising - a, esp. Plate-shaped or rod-shaped, first coupler element (25-ι) of the second kind, for synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bending vibrations of the first measuring tube (18i) and of the same frequenzgleichen Vibrations, in particular bending vibrations, of the third measuring tube (18 ₃ ) from both the first coupler element (24-ι) first type and from the second coupler element (24 ₂ ) of the first kind spaced on the first measuring tube (I e ₁ ) and the third measuring tube (18 ₃ ) but otherwise is not fixed to any other of the measuring tubes, as well

- a, esp. Plate-shaped or rod-shaped, second coupler element (25 ₂ ) of the second type, for synchronizing vibrations, in particular bending vibrations, the second measuring tube (I8 ₂ ) and of the same frequency vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) both from the first coupler element (24-ι) first type and from the second coupler element (24 ₂ ) of the first kind as well as the first coupler element (25-ι) of the second kind spaced on the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) and the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) but otherwise is not fixed to any other of the measuring tubes, esp. Such that the first and second coupler element (25i, 25 ₂ ) of the second type are placed opposite each other in the transducer.

16. Transducer according to the preceding claim,

wherein the first coupler element of the second type is fixed in the range of 50% of a minimum distance between the first coupler element of the first type and the second coupler element of the first type on the first measuring tube and on the third measuring tube, and

- Wherein the second coupler element of the second kind is fixed in the range of 50% of a minimum distance between the first coupler element of the first kind and the second coupler element of the first kind on the second measuring tube and on the fourth measuring tube.

17. A sensor according to any one of claims 15 to 16, further comprising:

- a, esp. Plate-shaped or rod-shaped, third coupler element (25 ₃ ) of the second type, for synchronizing vibrations, esb. Bending vibrations of the first measuring tube (18-ι) and of the same frequency vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the third measuring tube ( I 8 ₃ ) both from the first coupler element of the first kind (24-ι) and from the second coupler element (24 ₂ ) of the first kind as well as the first coupler element (25i) of the second kind spaced on the first measuring tube (I 8 ₁ ) and the third measuring tube ( 18 ₃ ) but otherwise is not fixed to any other of the measuring tubes, as well

- A, esp. Plate-shaped or rod-shaped, fourth coupler element (25 ₄ ) of the second type, for synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) and of the same frequency vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the fourth measuring tube (I 8 ₄ ) both of the first and second coupler element (24-ι, 24 ₂ ) of the first kind and by the second and third coupler element (25 ₂ , 25 ₃ ) of the second type each spaced on the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) and the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) but otherwise is not fixed to any other of the measuring tubes, esp. Such that the third and fourth coupler element (25 ₃ , 25 ₄ ) of the second type are placed opposite each other in the transducer.

18. A sensor according to claim 17, further comprising

- a, esp. Plate-shaped or rod-shaped, fifth coupler element (25 ₅ ) of the second type, for synchronizing vibrations, esb. Bieschwwingungen, the first measuring tube (I 8 ₁ ) and of the same frequency vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the third measuring tube ( 18 ₃ ) both of the first and second coupler element (24-ι, 24 ₂ ) of the first kind as well as the first and third coupler element (25-ι, 25 ₃ ) of the second kind spaced on the first measuring tube (I e ₁ ) and the third measuring tube ( 18 ₃ ) but otherwise is not fixed to any other of the measuring tubes, and - a, esp. Plate-shaped or rod-shaped, sixth coupler element (25 ₆ ) of the second kind, for synchronizing vibrations, esp. Bending vibrations, the second measuring tube and of the same frequency-like vibrations , In particular bending vibrations, of the fourth measuring tube from both the first and second coupler element (24-ι, 24 ₂ ) of the first kind and the second, fourth and fifth coupler element (25 ₂ , 25 ₄ , 25 ₅ ) two The second type of measuring tube (18 ₂ ) and the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) is otherwise fixed to no other of the measuring tubes, esp., Such that the fifth and sixth coupler element (25 ₅ , 25β) of the second type opposite to each other Measuring sensors are placed.

19. A sensor according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the four, esp. Gleichkalibrigen and / or same length, measuring tubes (18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) has a caliber, D ₁₈ , which is more than 60 mm, in particular more than 80 mm.

20. A transducer according to claim 14 and 19, wherein a caliber-to- _vibration ratio, D ₁₈ / L _18x , of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the caliber, D ₁₈ , the first measuring tube (18i) to the free _{swing length} , L _18x , of the first measuring tube (18i), is more than 0.07, in particular more than 0.09 and / or less than 0.15.

21. Measuring sensor according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a corresponding to a minimum distance between the first flow opening (20 _1A ) of the first flow divider (2O ₁ ) and the first flow opening (2Ü2A) of the second flow divider (2O ₂ ) Meßrohrlänge, L ₁₈ , of the first measuring tube (18-ι) is more than 1000 mm, in particular more than 1200 mm and / or less than 2000 mm.

22. A transducer according to claim 7 and 21, wherein a Meßrohrlänge-to-installation length ratio, L-is / L- _H , of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the Meßrohrlänge, L ₁₈ , the first measuring tube to the installation length, L ₁₁ , of the Meßaufnehmers, more than 0.7, esp. More than 0.8 and / or less than 0.95, is.

23. A sensor according to claim 7 and 19, wherein a caliber-to-installation length ratio, D ₁₈ ZL ₁₁ , the Meßaufnehmers, defined by a ratio of the caliber, D ₁₈ , the first measuring tube to the installation length, L ₁₁ , of the transducer, more than 0.02, in particular more than 0.05 and / or less than 0.09.

24. A transducer according to claim 7 and 14, wherein a vibration length to installation length ratio, L-IS _X / LI -I, of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the free swing length, L _18x , of the first measuring tube to the installation length, L _11th , of the measuring transducer, is more than 0.55, in particular more than 0.6 and / or less than 0.9.

25. A transducer according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an on vibrations, esp. By means of the exciting arrangement excited bending vibrations, the measuring tubes (18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) reacting, esp. Electro-dynamic and / or by means identical to each other

Vibration sensors (19i, 19 ₂ , 19 ₃ , 19 ₄ ) formed, sensor assembly (19) for generating vibrations, esp. Bieschwwingungen, the measuring tubes (18-ι, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) representing Schwingungsmeßsignalen.

26. A sensor according to the preceding claim, wherein the sensor arrangement (19) by means of a, esp. Electrodynamic and / or oscillations of the first measuring tube (18-ι) relative to the second measuring tube (I 8 ₂ ) differentially detecting, inlet side first vibration sensor (1 Q ₁ ) as well one, esp. Electrodynamic and / or oscillations of the first measuring tube (18i) relative to the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) differentially detecting, outlet-side second vibration sensor (19 ₂ ) is formed.

27. A sensor according to the preceding claim, wherein the sensor arrangement (19) by means of a, esp. Electrodynamic and / or vibrations of the third measuring tube (18 ₃ ) relative to the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) differentially detecting, inlet side third vibration sensor (19 ₃ ) and one, esp. Electrodynamic and / or oscillations of the third measuring tube (18 ₃ ) relative to the fourth measuring tube (I 8 ₄ ) differentially detecting, outlet-side fourth vibration sensor (19 ₄ ) is formed.

28. Transducer according to the preceding claim,

- Wherein the first and third vibration sensor (19-ι, 19 ₃ ) are electrically connected in series, such that a common Schwingungsmeßsignal common inlet side vibrations of the first and third measuring tube (18 ₁ , 18 ₃ ) relative to the second and fourth measuring tube (18 ₂ , 18 ₄ ), and

- Wherein the second and fourth vibration sensor (19 ₂ , 19 ₄ ) are electrically connected in series, such that a common Schwingungsmeßsignal common outlet side vibrations of the first and third measuring tube (I 8 ₁ , 18 ₃ ) relative to the second and fourth measuring tube (18 ₂ , 18 ₄ ).

29. A sensor according to any one of claims 27 to 28, wherein the third vibration sensor (19 ₃ ) by means of a third measuring tube (I 8 ₁ ) supported permanent magnet and one of its magnetic field flooded, on the fourth measuring tube (18 ₂ ) Erten Zylinderspule is formed, and wherein the fourth vibration sensor (19 ₄ ) by means of a third measuring tube (I 8 ₁ ) salaried permanent magnet and a flooded by its magnetic field, on the fourth measuring tube (18 ₂ ) supported Erten cylinder coil is formed.

30. A sensor according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein a minimum distance between the first vibration sensor (19i) and the second vibration sensor (19 ₂ ) corresponding gauge length, L _ig , the transducer more than 500 mm, esp. More than 600 mm and / or less than 1200 mm.

31. A measuring transducer according to claim 7 and 30, wherein a measuring length to installation length ratio, L-ig / L-π, of the measuring transducer, defined by a ratio of the measuring length, L _ig , to the installation length, L ₁₁ , of the measuring transducer, more than 0.3 , in particular more than 0.4 and / or less than 0.7.

32. A transducer according to claim 19 and 30, wherein a caliber-to-Meßlänge- ratio, D ₁₈ / L ₁₉ , of the transducer, defined by a ratio of the caliber, D ₁₈ , the first measuring tube to the measuring length, L ₁₉ , of the transducer, more than 0.05, in particular more than 0.09.

33. A transducer according to claim 14 and 30, wherein a Meßlänge-to-Schwinglänge ratio, L-ig / L-iβ _x , of the Meßaufnehmers, defined by a ratio of the Meßlänge, L ₁₉ , the transducer to the free _{swing length} , L _18x , of the first measuring tube, more than 0.6, esp. More than 0.65 and / or less than 0.95, is.

34. A sensor according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the four measuring tubes (18- ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , I 8 ₄ ) with respect to a material from which the tube walls are made, and / or in terms of their geometric tube dimensions, esp. a pipe length, a pipe wall thickness, a tube outer diameter and / or a caliber, are identical.

35. A transducer according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein both the third measuring tube and the fourth measuring tube (18 ₃ , I 8 ₄ ) with respect to their respective geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a tube outer diameter and / or a caliber, are different from the first measuring tube and the second measuring tube measuring tubes (18-ι, 18 ₂ ).

36. A transducer according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the measuring tubes (I 8- ₁ , I 8 ₂ , I 8 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) a bending vibration fundamental mode of minimum bending vibration resonance frequency, f ₁₈₁ ; f ₁₈₂ ; f ₁₈₃ ; f ₁₈₄ , and wherein the minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies, f ₁₈₁ , f ₁₈₂ , of at least the first and second measuring tubes (18-1, 18 ₂ ) are substantially equal and the minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies, f ₁₈₃ , f ₁₈₄ , at least the third and fourth measuring tube (18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) are substantially equal.

37. A transducer according to claim 36, wherein the minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies, f ₁₈₁ , f ₁₈₂ , f ₁₈₃ , f ₁₈₄ , of all four measuring tubes (I e ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) are substantially equal.

38. A transducer according to claim 36, wherein the minimum bending vibration resonance frequencies, f ₁₈₁ , f ₁₈₂ , f ₁₈₃ , f ₁₈₄ , of the four measuring tubes (I e ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) are only in pairs equal.

39. A transducer according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the exciter arrangement (5) by means of a, in particular electrodynamic and / or oscillations of the first measuring tube (18-ι) relative to the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) differentially exciting, first vibration exciter (5-ι ) is formed.

40. Transducer according to the preceding claim,

- Wherein the exciter assembly by means of a, esp. Electrodynamic and / or vibrations of the third measuring tube (18 ₃ ) relative to the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) differentially exciting, second vibration exciter (5 ₂ ) is formed, esp., Such that the first and second Vibration exciter (5- _I , 5 ₂ ) are electrically connected in series, such that a common drive signal common oscillations of the first and third measuring tube (18i, 18 ₃ ) relative to the second and fourth measuring tube (18 ₂ , 18 ₄ ) is excited; and or.

- Wherein the first vibration exciter (5i) by means of a first measuring tube (I 8 ₁ ) supported permanent magnet and one of its magnetic field flooded, on the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) content Erten Zylinderspule is formed, and wherein the second vibration exciter (5 ₂ ) by means of a on the third measuring tube (I 8 ₁ ) held permanent magnet and one of its magnetic field flooded, on the fourth measuring tube (18 ₂ ) held Erten cylinder coil is formed.

41. Measuring transducer according to one of claims 39 to 40, in each case in conjunction with one of claims 15 to 19, wherein each of the, in particular identical, vibration exciter (5i; 5 ₂ ) on two mutually opposite coupler elements (25-ι, 25 ₂ ) second Kind is held.

42. A transducer according to the preceding claim in conjunction with claim 15 or a dependent claim, wherein both the first vibration exciter (5i) and the second vibration exciter (5 ₂ ) respectively at the first and second coupler element (25-ι, 25 ₂ ) second Species are held, esp. In such a way that a minimum distance between the first and second vibration exciter (5 ₂₁ , 5 ₂ ) is more than twice as large as a tube outer diameter of the first measuring tube (18 ₁ ).

43. A transducer according to the preceding claim in conjunction with claim 17 or a dependent claim, wherein both the first vibration sensor (19i) and the third vibration sensor (19 ₃ ) respectively on the third and fourth coupler element (25 ₃ , 25 ₄ ) second type are held, esp. In such a way that a minimum distance between the first and third vibration sensor (19 ^ 19 ₃ ) is more than twice as large as a tube outer diameter of the first measuring tube (18 ₁ ).

44. A transducer according to the preceding claim in conjunction with claim 18 or a dependent claim, wherein both the second vibration sensor (19 ₂ ) and the fourth vibration sensor (19 ₄ ) respectively on the fifth and sixth coupler element (25 ₅ , 25β) of the second kind are held, esp. In such a way that a minimum distance between the second and fourth Vibration sensor (19 ₂ , 19 ₄ ) is more than twice as large as a tube outer diameter of the first measuring tube (18-ι).

45. A sensor according to any one of claims 39 to 44, further comprising: - a first plate-shaped stiffening element (26i), which is used for adjusting

Resonant frequencies of bending vibrations of the first measuring tube (18-ι) and the third measuring tube (I 8 ₃ ) in a first and / or second vibration level (XZ ₁ , XZ ₂ ) substantially perpendicular third vibration level (YZ ₁ ) on the first measuring tube (18 -ι) and on the third measuring tube (18 ₃ ) is fixed, in each case at one between the first vibration exciter (5-ι) and the first flow divider (2O ₁ ) lying segment (18'i, 18 ' ₃ ) of the first or third measuring tube;

a second plate-shaped stiffening element (26 ₂ ) arranged to set resonance frequencies of bending oscillations of the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) and the fourth measuring tube (I 8 ₄ ) in one of the first and / or second oscillation plane (XZ ₁ , XZ ₂ ) in FIG substantially vertical fourth vibration plane (YZ ₂ ) on the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) and on the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) is fixed, in each case at one between the first vibration exciter (5-ι) and the first flow divider (2O ₁ ) lying segment (18 ' ₂ , 18' ₄ ) of the second and fourth measuring tube;

- A third plate-shaped stiffening element (26 ₃ ), for adjusting resonance frequencies of bending vibrations of the first measuring tube (18-ι) and the third

Measuring tube (18 ₃ ) in the third plane of vibration (YZ ₁ ) on the first measuring tube (18-ι) and on the third measuring tube (I 8 ₃ ) is fixed, in each case at one between the first vibration exciter (5-ι) and the second Flow divider (2O ₂ ) lying segment (18 "i, 18" ₃ ) of the first and third measuring tube; and - a fourth plate-shaped stiffening element (26 ₄ ) for adjusting

Resonant frequencies of bending vibrations of the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) and the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) in the fourth plane of vibration (YZ ₂ ) on the second measuring tube (18 ₂ ) and the fourth measuring tube (18 ₄ ) is fixed, in each case at one between the first vibration exciter (5-ι) and the second flow divider (2O ₂ ) lying segment (18 " ₂ , 18" ₄ ) of the second and fourth measuring tube.

46. Sensor according to one of the preceding claims,

- Wherein each of the four, in particular gleichkalibrigen, measuring tubes (18i, 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , I 8 ₄ ) is arranged so

- That a smallest lateral distance of each of the four, esp. Equal length, measuring tubes of a housing side wall of the pickup housing each greater than zero, esp. Greater than 3 mm and / or greater than a double of a respective pipe wall thickness is; and or

- That a smallest lateral distance between two adjacent measuring tubes is greater than 3 mm and / or greater than the sum of their respective pipe wall thicknesses; and or

wherein each of the flow openings is arranged, that a smallest lateral distance of each of the flow openings of a

Housing side wall of the transducer housing in each case greater than zero, in particular greater than 3 mm and / or greater than a double of a smallest pipe wall thickness of the measuring tubes, is; and or

- That a smallest lateral distance between the flow openings is greater than 3 mm and / or greater than a double of a smallest pipe wall thickness of the measuring tubes.

47. A transducer according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of increasing the vibration quality of the measuring tubes (18 ₁ , I 8 ₂ , I 8 ₃ , I 8 ₄ ) serving annular, esp. Identical, stiffening elements (22 _1A , 22 _1B , 22 _1C , 22 _1D , 22 _2A , 22 _2B , 22 _2C , 22 _2D, 22 _3A , 22 _3B , 22 _3C , 22 _3D , 22 _4A , 22 _4B , 22 _4C , 22 _4D ), each at exactly one the measuring tubes (I 8 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) is mounted so that it encompasses this along one of its peripheral lines.

48. Transducer according to the preceding claim,

- Wherein on each of the measuring tubes (I 8 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) at least four annular, in particular identical, stiffening elements (22 _1A , 22 _1B , 22 _1C , 22 _1D , 22 _2A , 22 _2B , 22 _2C , 22 _2D, 22 _3A , 22 _3B , 22 _3C , 22 _3D , 22 _4A ,

22 _4B , 22 _4C , 22 _4D ) are mounted; and or

- wherein the stiffening elements are so placed in the measuring transducer, that two mounted on the same measuring tube adjacent stiffening elements have mutually a distance which is at least 70% of a tube outer diameter, D _18a, same measuring tube (18 _1; 18 _2; 18 _3; 18 ₄ ), but not more than 150% of the same tube outer diameter, D _18a , is, in particular a distance in the range of 80% to 120% selbigen tube outer diameter.

49. A sensor according to one of the preceding claims,

- wherein a mass ratio, M ₁₁ ZM ₁₈ , an empty mass, M ₁₁ , the entire transducer to an empty mass, M ₁₈ , the first measuring tube is greater than 10, esp. greater than 15 and less than 25; and or - Each of the two flow divider (20-i, 2O ₂ ) each having a mass of more than 20 kg, esp. Of more than 40 kg; and or

- An empty mass, M ₁₈ , the first measuring tube, esp. Each of the measuring tubes (I 8 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , I 8 ₄ ), greater than 20 kg, in particular greater than 30 kg and / or less than 50 kg, is; and / or - wherein the first and the second measuring tube (I 8 ₁ , I 8 ₂ ) at least with respect to a material from which their tube walls each consist, and / or in terms of their geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a tube outer diameter and / or caliber, are identical; and or

- Wherein the third and the fourth measuring tube (18 ₃ , I 8 ₄ ) at least with respect to a material from which the tube walls each consist, and / or in terms of their geometric tube dimensions, esp. A tube length, a tube wall thickness, a tube outer diameter and / or a caliber, are identical; and or

- wherein a material from which the tube walls of the four measuring tubes (I 8 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) at least partially made, titanium and / or zirconium and / or duplex steel and / or super duplex steel is; and or

- Wherein the transducer housing (7-ι), the flow divider (20i, 2O ₂ ) and tube walls of the measuring tubes (18 ₁ , 18 ₂ , 18 ₃ , 18 ₄ ) each consist of, esp. Stainless, steel; and or

- wherein the four flow openings (20i _A , 20i _B , 20i _C , 20i _D ) of the first flow divider (2O ₂ ) are arranged so that, in particular circular, cross-sectional areas of the flow openings (20 _1A ; 20IB; 20IC; 20ID) of the imaginary centroids corresponding to the first flow divider (20i) form the corner points of an imaginary square, the same cross-sectional areas being located in a common imaginary sectional plane of the first flow divider (20i) perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the measuring transducer parallel to a main flow axis of the measuring transducer; and / or - wherein the four flow openings (20 _2A , 20 _2B , 20 _2C , 20 _2D ) of the second flow divider (2O ₂ ) are arranged so that, in particular circular, cross-sectional areas of the flow openings (20 _2A , 20 ₂ B; 20 ₂ C; 20 ₂ D) of the second flow divider (2O ₂ ) form the vertices of an imaginary square, wherein the same cross-sectional areas in a common imaginary, perpendicular to a longitudinal, parallel to a main flow axis of the measuring transducer, extending longitudinal axis of the transducer Section plane of the second flow divider (2O ₂ ) are; and or

- Wherein a middle segment (7 _1A ) of the pick-up housing (7-ι) by means of a straight, esp. Circular cylindrical tube is formed.

50. In-line measuring device for measuring a density and / or a mass flow rate, in particular also a total mass flow totalized over a time interval, one flowing in a pipeline at least temporarily, in particular at a mass flow rate of more than 2200 t / h Medium, esp. Of a gas, a liquid, a powder or other fluid substance, which, esp. Designed as a compact device, in-line meter a transducer according to one of the preceding claims and electrically coupled to the transducer, especially also mechanically rigidly connected, measuring electronics includes.

51. Use of a measuring transducer according to one of claims 1 to 49 for measuring a density and / or a mass flow rate, in particular also over a time interval totalized total mass flow, one in a pipeline at least temporarily with a mass flow rate of more than 2200 t / h , in particular more than 2500 t / h, of flowing medium, in particular of a gas, a liquid, a powder or another fluid substance.