Overview
The VCEM 5000/5100 represents the latest generation of CODEL’s unique flow monitors. These systems measure the velocity of stack gases using a highly accurate time of flight measurement that is derived from a cross correlation analysis of the infra-red emissions of the turbulent gas.
Two robust infrared detectors are used for the prime sensing, mounted on the stack or duct typically 1m apart in the direction of flow. High efficiency air curtains are fitted to considerably extend the time between maintenance and periods and window cleaning (typically 1 year).
Features & Benefits
- Non-contact infra-red sensing.
- Continuous measurement.
- Suitable for hot and dirty gases.
- No limit on upper gas temperature.
- No moving components.
- High availability, low maintenance requirement.
Certified Product
The VCEM 5100 has both TUV and MCERT certification which signifies the accuracy and reliability of its measuring capabilities.
Typical Flow Monitoring Applications
Large Combustion Plants
Small Combustion Plants
Cement Plants
Dust Collectors
FGD Process
SCR and SNCR Process
Energy From Waste
Incinerators
Renewable Energy
Power Generation
Pharmaceutical
Petrochemical
Product Specification
| Operating Principle | Infrared correlation |
| Measuring Units | m/s, m3/s |
| Ambient Temperature | -20°C to +50°C |
| Power Supply | 48V DC from Signal Processor Unit (SPU) |
| Construction | epoxy-coated aluminium to IP67 |
| Analogue Outputs | 2 x 4-20mA current outputs as standard, isolated, 500Ω load max, fully configurable from keypad |
| Logic Outputs | 2 x volt-free SPCO contacts, 50V, 1A max, configurable as alarm contacts 1 x volt-free SPCO contact, 50V, 1A max, for data valid signal |
| Serial Data | RS485 MODBUS protocol (Optional) |
You can find the full specification in the product data sheet / brochure.
What is the VCEM5100 used for?
The VCEM5100 is a continuous flue gas velocity monitor designed to measure the velocity and volumetric flow of gases in stacks and ducts. It can be used as a standalone flow monitor or as part of a complete Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS), supporting applications including combustion plants, cement plants, waste-to-energy, incineration, power generation and FGD processes.
How does the VCEM5100 measure flue gas velocity?
The VCEM5100 uses infrared cross-correlation technology to determine the time of flight of naturally occurring infrared radiation within the turbulent flue gas. Two infrared detectors are positioned on the stack or duct, typically around 1 metre apart, allowing the system to calculate gas velocity without making physical contact with the gas stream.
Why use a non-contact flow measurement system?
Because the VCEM5100 sensors do not need to be inserted into the gas stream, there are no moving components exposed to the flue gas. This makes the technology particularly suitable for applications where high temperatures, dust loading or corrosive gases could make conventional flow measurement technologies difficult to maintain.
Can the VCEM5100 measure flow in high-temperature flue gases?
Yes. The VCEM5100 is designed for demanding high-temperature applications and CODEL states that it can operate with flue gas temperatures exceeding 1,000°C. This makes it suitable for applications where conventional flow measurement technologies may struggle with long-term operation.
Does the VCEM5100 work in dusty or dirty gases?
Yes. The infrared correlation technique is designed to provide non-contact measurement even in challenging gas conditions. CODEL specifically highlights applications involving high dust loading and corrosive gases, including raw gas, SCR inlet/outlet and FGD inlet measurement.
How much maintenance does the VCEM5100 require?
The VCEM5100 is designed for low-maintenance operation. It has no moving components and uses high-efficiency air curtains to help keep the optical surfaces clean. CODEL states that this can typically extend the period between maintenance and window cleaning to around one year, depending on the application.
What does the VCEM5100 measure?
The VCEM5100 provides continuous measurement of gas velocity in m/s and volumetric flow in m³/s. It provides two configurable 4–20 mA analogue outputs as standard, with optional RS485 Modbus communications.
Can the VCEM5100 be integrated into a CEMS?
Yes. The VCEM5100 can operate as a standalone flow monitor or form part of an integrated CEMS. Its configurable analogue outputs, alarm/status contacts and optional RS485 Modbus communications allow the flow measurement to be integrated with wider emissions monitoring and data acquisition systems.
Is the VCEM5100 QAL1 certified?
Yes. CODEL states that the VCEM5100 has received TÜV QAL1 certification, and the product page also identifies the VCEM5100 as both TÜV and MCERT certified.
What applications is the VCEM5100 suitable for?
Typical applications include:
- Large and small combustion plants
- Waste-to-energy plants
- Incinerators
- Cement plants
- Power generation
- Renewable energy
- FGD processes
- SCR and SNCR systems
- Dust collectors
It can also be used for process measurement in more demanding locations, such as raw gas and high-temperature process streams.
Can the VCEM5100 measure flow before or after an SCR or FGD system?
Yes. The non-contact measurement principle makes the VCEM5100 suitable for challenging process locations, including SCR inlet/outlet and FGD inlet applications. CODEL also identifies DeNOx and FGD monitoring among its flow-monitoring applications.
Is the VCEM5100 suitable for US EPA applications?
Yes, the VCEM5100 can form part of a US EPA-compliant emissions monitoring system where continuous flow measurement is required. US EPA Performance Specification 6 (PS-6) covers flow-rate measurement for continuous emission rate monitoring systems. CODEL states that the VCEM5100 can satisfy the requirements of 40 CFR Part 60, Appendix B, PS-6. The exact compliance requirements depend on the applicable EPA regulation, permit and application, so CODEL should confirm the appropriate configuration for each US project.
How is the VCEM5100 different from conventional flow meters?
The key difference is the non-contact infrared measurement principle. Conventional technologies can require components to be exposed to the flue gas, whereas the VCEM5100 measures gas velocity remotely using infrared correlation. This means no moving parts are exposed to the gas stream and makes the system particularly attractive for high-temperature, high-dust or otherwise challenging applications.
Can CODEL help determine whether the VCEM5100 is suitable for my application?
Yes. The most appropriate flow-monitoring technology depends on factors such as stack or duct geometry, gas temperature, gas composition, dust loading, expected velocity range and the applicable regulatory requirements. CODEL can assess the application and recommend an appropriate configuration.
Product Enquiry
Data Sheet / Brochure Download
Looking for a manual?
Please contact us below and we will be happy to help you.
For further information on any of our products, please complete our enquiry form and a member of staff will respond as soon as possible.
You can also call: +44(0)1629 814351
