When flow is measured but the material balance still does not match
Mineral processing flows contain solids, liquid and sometimes entrained gas. If gas is omitted from the process model, solids concentration and mass-flow estimates may be distorted. SONARtrac provides volumetric flow data and, on GVF-equipped models, a separate measurement of entrained gas volume fraction.
Material balance mismatch
Calculated mass and volume do not align across the processing circuit.
Entrained air is not monitored
Air ingress, foaming and changing gas content complicate measurement interpretation.
Abrasive or corrosive slurry
Wetted measuring components can wear and require attention.
Limited process visibility
The operator sees flow variation but cannot separate flow changes from gas-related effects.
What SONARtrac measures — and why it matters
CiDRA uses passive sonar technology. Sensors mounted outside the pipe interpret naturally occurring turbulent structures. Systems equipped for GVF measurement also analyse sound propagation through the process medium.
Volumetric flow
Flow measurement with no sensing elements inside the pipe.
Entrained gas (GVF)
Gas void fraction measurement on appropriately configured SONARtrac models.
External clamp-on mounting
The sensing array mounts outside the pipe without direct contact with abrasive slurry.
Engineering calculations
Flow and GVF data can complement density measurements and laboratory results in process balance calculations.
Density meters and SONARtrac address different variables
Density meter (such as Alia ADM) — Measures bulk density of the slurry. It does not by itself replace flow measurement or provide a GVF measurement.
SONARtrac VF/GVF — Provides flow and, when equipped, gas fraction data. It does not replace a density meter where density is needed for solids-mass calculations.
The instrumentation scheme must match the fluid, process challenge and plant configuration. A sound solids-mass calculation also needs phase properties and a suitable process model.
Where SONARtrac can add value
Grinding and classification
Mill circulation and transfer lines, including cyclone feed.
Flotation circuits
Process flows where entrained gas can change operating conditions.
Thickening and tailings
Slurry and tailings transport lines.
Hydraulic transport and minerals
Abrasive slurries and lined industrial pipelines.
Pulp and paper
Fibre suspension lines subject to application qualification.
Water and wastewater
Water and sludge flow measurement with appropriate SONARtrac configurations.
See how SONARtrac mounts on a pipe
This manufacturer animation illustrates the external clamp-on installation concept. Final siting and installation requirements depend on the model and pipeline.
CiDRA Holdings LLC · Vimeo · SONARtrac 3D Animation
Dealing with flow or material balance discrepancies?
Tell us the process area and the deviations observed. GeoWatt will review the task and potential suitability of SONARtrac.
How GeoWatt develops the engineering proposal
Define the challenge
Identify where readings disagree and how flow is measured today.
Qualify the location
Review pipeline details, medium, operating conditions and existing instrumentation.
Select the configuration
Decide whether flow alone or flow plus GVF is required; confirm with CiDRA.
Prepare the proposal
Develop the solution scope, integration questions and supply requirements.
SONARtrac specifications — restricted access
Detailed VF/GVF configurations, operating limits, model specifications, siting requirements and installation documentation are intended for authorised engineering users. Sign in or register to access the restricted section.
This link leads to registration. Documents are downloaded from restricted Level 4 after access is granted.
Need a configuration for your existing pipeline?
Start with the slurry, pipe diameter and material, operating conditions, existing meters and control system requirements.
SONARtrac is a family of systems, and not every model measures GVF. Accuracy, operating range, suitability and installation requirements must be confirmed using the current datasheet for the selected model and site conditions.