SFC3000 Flow Computer Adds ISO17089-1 Ultrasonic Support

Ex-i Flow Measurement Ltd, based in West Sussex, specialises in delivering advanced solutions for liquid hydrocarbon and gas measurement systems. Since its foundation, the company has focused on providing accurate, reliable, and flexible technologies that support critical industries worldwide.

The latest firmware update (V0.50.9.0) to the company’s flagship SFC3000 Flow Measurement Computer marks a significant step forward. This enhancement introduces full support for ISO17089-1 (2019 Appendix F), strengthening the system’s ability to connect seamlessly with ultrasonic flow meters.

Compatibility with this international standard is an important development, promoting greater industry standardisation while giving operators improved flexibility across different meter manufacturers and configurations.

As the central “brains” of a flow measurement system, the SFC3000 continues to demonstrate its role as a cornerstone of accurate and dependable flow measurement in the hydrocarbon and gas sectors.

From Mechanical to Ultrasonic – The Shift in Flow Meter Design

For decades, flow measurement relied heavily on orifice and turbine meters. These mechanical devices used either the venturi effect or a bladed wheel fitted inside the pipe to calculate flow rates. While effective in their time, such designs were prone to wear, blockage, and damage from debris within the pipeline, leading to reduced accuracy and costly maintenance.

The introduction of ultrasonic flow meters marked a turning point for the industry. Instead of relying on moving parts or pipe restrictions, ultrasonic meters transmit sound waves across the flow path and measure the time difference in the signal. This method delivers a non-invasive, wear-free solution that enhances measurement accuracy and extends the lifespan of the equipment.

Although ultrasonic technology involves a higher initial investment and requires more complex electronics to process the data, the long-term benefits are substantial. Greater accuracy, reliability, and reduced maintenance costs make ultrasonic systems an attractive choice for operators looking to improve performance and reduce downtime.

This transition underscores the importance of advanced flow computers like the SFC3000, which not only accommodate legacy measurement devices but also fully support modern ultrasonic systems. By bridging traditional and next-generation technologies, the SFC3000 ensures operators gain maximum flexibility in flow measurement and control.

SFC3000 Firmware Update and Expanded Capabilities

The latest V0.50.9.0 firmware release brings significant enhancements to the SFC3000 Flow Computer, most notably the implementation of ISO17089-1 (2019 Appendix F). While earlier versions supported only Tables 1 and 2 under the “Generic” meter selection option, the new update now incorporates Tables 3 and 4, covering the virtual tag plate as well as pressure and temperature write registers. This development ensures a more comprehensive and standardised interface for ultrasonic flow measurement.

A key feature of the update is the introduction of a “Generic” ISO driver. This enables the SFC3000 to communicate with a much wider range of ultrasonic meters, eliminating reliance on manufacturer-specific drivers. For operators, this means greater interoperability and flexibility when integrating devices from multiple suppliers into their measurement systems.

Beyond compatibility, the SFC3000 is designed for versatility. It can function within a standalone single-stream configuration or as part of a complex multi-stream system. Its modular, rack-mounted construction supports up to six plug-in cards, providing scalability to meet evolving project requirements. This combination of adaptability and expandability makes the SFC3000 a robust choice for operators managing diverse measurement environments.

Why the SFC3000 Remains the “Brains” of Flow Measurement Systems

The SFC3000 Flow Computer is more than just a calculation device; it acts as the station supervisor within a flow measurement system. By integrating multiple data sources and sensor inputs, it provides operators with a centralised platform to manage measurement accuracy, system performance, and resource efficiency.

A typical flow measurement system built around the SFC3000 includes:

• SFC3000 unit with I/O option board
• Flow meter — ultrasonic, turbine, Coriolis, or differential pressure
• Pressure sensors (HART or 4-20mA)
• Temperature sensors (HART, 4-20mA, or PT100 Platinum Resistance Thermometer)

With its touchscreen VGA interface, extensive processing power, and robust design, the SFC3000 delivers a user-friendly yet highly capable supervisory solution. Its environmental resilience, including wide operating temperature ranges and compliance with M2/E2 environmental classes, ensures reliable performance even in demanding industrial conditions.

Crucially, the SFC3000 supports the efficient management and conservation of energy resources, aligning with Ex~I Flow Measurement’s broader mission: continuous innovation, exceptional reliability, and enabling operators to meet the challenges of sustainable energy management with confidence.

Supporting the Future of Energy Resource Management

The SFC3000 Flow Computer continues to demonstrate its value as a future-ready platform for liquid hydrocarbon and gas measurement. With the latest firmware update, it offers operators enhanced compatibility with ultrasonic meters, ensuring that measurement systems remain accurate, reliable, and adaptable to evolving industry needs.

By delivering wider interoperability, greater flexibility, and long-term dependability, the SFC3000 reinforces its position as the core component of advanced flow measurement systems. This update highlights Ex~I Flow Measurement’s dedication to addressing both the technical challenges and operational requirements of modern energy infrastructure.

As a company committed to ongoing development and customer-focused innovation, Ex~I Flow Measurement continues to push the boundaries of accuracy, performance, and sustainability in flow computing technology.

To learn more about the SFC3000 and Ex~I Flow’s solutions, visit exiflowmeasurement.com or contact the team directly for technical support and enquiries.