VPFlowScope M — insertion flow meter for compressed air and gases
The VPFlowScope M is a 4-in-1 insertion flow meter that simultaneously measures mass flow, pressure, temperature and totalized flow in a compressed air network. It installs under pressure and replaces yearly recalibration with a simple cartridge exchange. Two-directional measurement — for ring networks — is available as an option.
Field problem
Measuring flow at a compressor room outlet or on a production line usually means a shutdown, a tapping, and periodic sensor recalibration. The VPFlowScope M removes these obstacles: install under pressure on an insertion valve, and a VPSensorCartridge that swaps out on site. Optionally, bi-directional measurement also tracks the back-flow of ring networks.
Measurable benefits
You get real flow — not an estimate — to compare consumption against compressor kW, allocate cost by department, or trend a line over time. Two sizes cover most plant piping (P220 from 1″ to 3″, P350 above), and the 4–20 mA, Modbus RTU and Ethernet outputs integrate it with VPVision, the CALMS platform, an ONYX kit or your own system.
Installation
The VPFlowScope M installs under pressure, without shutting down the network. The step-by-step guide — measuring point, insertion depth and orientation, under-pressure mounting (P350 and P220), M12 wiring and commissioning — is laid out in our Installing the VPFlowScope M insertion flow meter article.
Specifications
| Measuring principle | Insertion probe — thermal mass (Thermabridge) |
|---|---|
| Simultaneous measurements | Mass flow · pressure · temperature · totalized flow (4-in-1) |
| Bi-directional | Optional (measures both directions) — for ring networks |
| Pipe diameters | P220: 1″–3″ (DN25–80) · P350: 2.5″ and up |
| Probe length | P220: 220 mm · P350: 350 mm (13.7″) |
| Pressure range | P220: −1…16 bar(g) / 0…250 psig · P350: 0…10 bar(g) |
| Gases measured | Compressed air, N₂, O₂, He, Ar and other technical gases |
| Interfaces | 4–20 mA · RS-485 (Modbus RTU) · Ethernet (Modbus/TCP) |
| Calibration | Exchangeable VPSensorCartridge — no on-site recalibration |
| Installation | Under pressure, without shutting down the network |
Compatibility
- Compressed air, nitrogen, oxygen, helium, argon and other technical gases
- Dead-end or ring networks (optional bi-directional measurement)
- VPVision, the CALMS platform, ONYX kits or any system reading Modbus / 4–20 mA
Frequently asked questions
Does the VPFlowScope M need yearly recalibration?
No. The patented VPSensorCartridge is swapped in minutes instead of being shipped out for recalibration — the device stays in service. Onyx M3 supplies the replacement cartridge when needed.
Can it be installed without stopping the compressor?
Yes. The VPFlowScope M installs under pressure on an insertion valve, with no network shutdown. Onyx M3 validates the measuring point and the size (P220 or P350) at quoting.
Which version for my piping?
The P220 covers 1″ to 3″ diameters; the P350, 2.5″ and up. We confirm the right probe for your diameter and pressure before ordering.
Request a quote
Tell us about your application (flow, pressure, number of compressors): we confirm the configuration and the price. Billing by transfer or purchase order — no online payment.
Not sure this is the right equipment? Free consultation — we'll look at your system together.