When it comes to process industries, few sectors demand the level of precision and complexity found in pharmaceuticals Imagine the old-fashioned chemical balance in its glass case, a staple of a pharmacist’s bench decades ago, capable of measuring milligrams with painstaking accuracy. That same need for precision persists today, but now at industrial scale. Fortunately, modern technologies make this possible automatically and reliably.

For many critical applications, the modern equivalent is the Coriolis flow meter, purpose-built for high-precision batch processes. In my Pharmaceutical Processing World article, Coriolis Meter Options for Pharmaceutical Applications, I explain how these instruments deliver unparalleled accuracy and reliability.

Coriolis meters directly measure mass flow, density, and temperature for both liquids and gases. These measurements are highly accurate and are not affected by process variability. This makes Coriolis technology the preferred choice for critical pharmaceutical applications, where precision and reliability are required. While the initial investment may be higher than other flow technologies, the performance benefits easily justify the cost.

Historically, Coriolis meters were considered bulky—large sensor assemblies, and line sizes didn’t always fit the compact nature of pharmaceutical equipment. That’s no longer the case. The Micro Motion Hygienic G-Series introduces a compact sensor design tailored for hygienic applications, including those requiring CIP and SIP processes. Standard line sizes now go as small as ¼ inch, making integration easier than ever.

These new sensors are offered in a variety of fittings and body sizes, including standard and 3A, EHEDG, and ASME BPE-rated hygienic bodies with either raised face flange, Tri-Clamp™, or VCO fittings. These sensors are also cleanable and self-draining in either horizonal or vertical orientations, and they can be mounted vertically, horizontally, or diagonally as required.

These options make it much easier to incorporate sensors into new or existing equipment skids. They’re an excellent choice for replacing legacy magnetic and differential-pressure flow meters. New transmitter options also extend their versatility.

Recent software advancements in Micro Motion Coriolis transmitters have significantly expanded their capabilities. Many of the features can be licensed individually, allowing the user to choose the features and capabilities necessary for their specific application. With the right configuration and in some applications, the meter can perform the batching and filling tasks typically handled by a separate control system.

The full article dives deeper into the advantages and application possibilities, supported by real-world case studies. One point worth emphasizing is the exceptional precision these meters deliver: mass flow accuracy of ±0.10% of rate across a wide turndown range, along with highly accurate volume flow and density measurements. This level of performance ensures consistent quality and reliability in even the most demanding pharmaceutical processes.

Coriolis meters have always delivered the most accurate flow measurement. Now, with purpose-built designs and intelligent features, they are more versatile and valuable than ever, and ready to meet the evolving needs of any application.

Visit the Flow Measurement Systems pages at Emerson.com. You can also connect and interact with other engineers in the Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Groups at the Emerson Exchange 365 community.