Simulation Uncertainty for a Virtual Ultrasonic Flow Meter

Ultrasonic clamp-on meters have become an established technology for non-invasive flow measurements. Under disturbed conditions, their measurement values must be adjusted with corresponding fluid mechanical calibration factors. Due to the variety of disturbances and installation positions, experimental determination these factors often needs complemented by computational dynamics (CFD) simulations. From a metrological perspective, substituting experiments simulation results raises question how confidence in so-called virtual can ensured. While there are well-established methods estimate errors CFD predictions general, strategies meet requirements CFD-based yet developed. In this paper, framework assessing overall uncertainty meter is proposed. analogy evaluation uncertainty, approach based on utilization expanded representing entirety domain. The study was conducted using example ultrasonic downstream double bend out-of-plane. Nevertheless, proposed method applies other different types meters. comparison between laboratory turbulence modeling approaches demonstrates clear superiority hybrid RANS-LES models over industry standard RANS. With 1.44 × 10−2, obtained model allows continuous applicable relevant mounting positions real at satisfactory level confidence.