Fraunhofer Institute for Physical Measurement Techniques IPM
Quantum magnetometry: flow metering enabled by optically pumped magnetometers (OPM)
How can a fluid, for which the flow is to be measured, generate a magnetic field? Would such a magnetic field even be measurable? We can only answer these questions if we look at the concept of spin of particles. Spin is a fundamental property of particles such as atoms or atomic nuclei and can be understood as a tiny magnet that generates its own magnetic field. Using the latest quantum-based technology, we can measure this magnetic field and thus determine the flow of a fluid.
Static magnetic marker
To measure flow, we have developed a ground-breaking method that aims to push the limits of conventional flow measurement devices. Our method uses the inherent properties of nuclear spins in a fluid as magnetic markers to perform precise measurements. The fluid is first magnetized and then magnetically marked. Then the magnetic markers are measured in a time-of-flight measurement. Our method differs significantly from a nuclear magnetic resonance-based approach because here the magnetization of the fluid is static and no frequency is generated as in conventional nuclear magnetic resonance experiments.
Advantages of quantum magnetic flow metering
- Non-invasive
- Very high precision
- High velocity range (> 1:10)
- Suitable for austenitic stainless-steel pipes
- Applicable to a broad range of fluids
- Applicable to Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids
- Method applicable to liquid hydrogen
We are excited about the potential of this new technique. Would you like to explore the benefits of non-invasive magnetic flow measurement using quantum sensors for your specific measurement application? We install and test our patented flow meter in your industrial production environment. Don't hesitate to get in touch!