A Mathematical Model and Error Analysis of Coriolis Mass Flowmeters

Manufacturers empirically made Coriolis mass flowmeters (CMFs) for more than 25 years, prior to formulation of a comprehensive, fundamental theory. In this paper, we analytically develop a general model of CMFs that supports the designs of the flowmeters and are referenced for their improvement, as well as their production method. We first make a model that fully explains CMFs with twin U-shaped flow tubes. Then, we discuss its general application to CMFs that use different arrangements of flow tubes, e.g., a single tube or straight tubes. We further explain, by using the developed model, errors in the measurement caused by external vibration, errors by temperature and process pressure, and their error correction.