CalFlo™ CFAF Thermal Mass Air Flow Meter

Description

Accurate Air Flow. No Moving Parts.

The CalFlo™ CFAF Thermal Mass Air Flow Meter is a purpose-built industrial sensor designed to monitor air and compatible gas flows across a wide range of applications. Encapsulated in epoxy resin, the CFAF uses a ceramic sensor with overglaze coating to detect flow velocity through the thermal mass principle, with no moving parts that can wear, foul, or require periodic replacement. The result is a low-maintenance instrument that delivers consistent, accurate readings over a long service life.

The CFAF is available in two housing materials to suit different installation requirements. The Ultradur (PBTP) plastic version is lightweight and well suited to lower-pressure applications up to 15 psi, while the stainless steel version handles pressures up to 150 psi and is suited to more demanding industrial environments. Both versions come in short and long housing lengths, making the CFAF compatible with pipe sizes from half an inch up to larger diameter installations.

Measurement range is one of the CFAF's most practical features. Five fixed range options are available, covering maximum flow speeds from 32 fps all the way up to 164 fps, and the range itself is field-adjustable using a small screwdriver to turn an onboard potentiometer. A green LED confirms that the sensor is operating within the set measurement range, and switches off automatically if flow exceeds the adjusted limit, giving operators a clear visual status indicator at a glance.

The CFAF outputs a standard 4-20 mA signal compatible with most industrial control systems and data acquisition equipment, with a resistive load of up to 500 ohms. It runs on 24 VDC and draws a maximum of 1.3 watts. Installation is straightforward: the Ultradur version mounts via a supplied flange into a drilled duct wall, while the stainless steel version uses a union nut fitting. Optimal accuracy is achieved with a straight pipe run of 5 to 7 duct diameters upstream and 3 to 5 diameters downstream of the meter.

Typical applications for the CFAF include air conditioning and HVAC systems, dust collection and extraction, ventilation monitoring, compressed air measurement, and energy conservation programmes where accurate air flow data is needed to identify inefficiencies. Its compact footprint, simple wiring, and field-adjustable range make it a straightforward choice for both new installations and retrofits into existing ductwork.