Emerson FX-316 | Flow Transmitter

  • Model:​ FX-316

  • Product Type:​ Vortex Flowmeter / Flow Transmitter

  • Series:​ Foxboro® Vortex Flowmeters

  • Core Function:​ Measures the volumetric flow rate of steam, gases, and liquids using the vortex shedding principle and provides a standardized output signal for process monitoring and control.

  • Key Specs:​ Vortex shedding technology, 4-20mA with HART, no moving parts.
Manufacturer:

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Description

FX-316: Product Overview
The Emerson FX-316 is a vortex flowmeter from the Foxboro® product line, designed for accurate and reliable flow measurement in a wide range of industrial applications. This device operates on the von Kármán vortex street principle: a shedder bar (bluff body) placed in the flow stream creates alternating vortices downstream, and the frequency of these vortices is directly proportional to the velocity of the fluid. A piezoelectric sensor inside the meter detects this frequency, and the integrated transmitter converts it into a volumetric flow rate.
Installed directly into the process pipeline via flanged or wafer-style connections, its primary role is to provide continuous, accurate flow data to control systems (DCS, PLC) for process monitoring, control, and billing (custody transfer). It is particularly well-suited for measuring saturated and superheated steam, a key application where its reliability and lack of moving parts offer significant advantages over orifice plates. It is also widely used for liquids and gases in chemical, petrochemical, power generation, and HVAC industries.

EMERSON FX-316

EMERSON FX-316

FX-316: Technical Specifications

  • Model Number:​ FX-316

  • Manufacturer:​ Emerson (Foxboro)

  • Product Type:​ Vortex Flowmeter / Transmitter

  • Measurement Principle:​ Vortex Shedding

  • Fluids:​ Liquids, Gases, and Steam

  • Output Signal:​ 2-wire, 4-20 mA DC with HART protocol

  • Power Supply:​ 12-42 VDC (standard loop power)

  • Accuracy:

    • Liquids: ±0.75% of rate (typical)

    • Gas/Steam: ±1.5% of rate (typical)

  • Turndown Ratio:​ Up to 10:1

  • Pressure Rating:​ Varies with flange rating (e.g., ANSI 150, 300, 600)

  • Temperature Range:

    • Standard: -40°C to +260°C (-40°F to +500°F)

    • High-Temp Options: Available for higher temperatures

  • Process Connection:​ Flanged (ANSI, DIN, JIS) or Wafer

  • Body Material:​ Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel

  • Shedder Bar Material:​ Stainless Steel

  • Communications:​ HART protocol (5, 6, or 7)

  • Display:​ Optional local indicator (LCD)

    EMERSON FX-316

    EMERSON FX-316

Core Features & Customer Value
The primary value of the FX-316 is its simplicity and reliability, stemming from its design with no moving parts. This results in lower maintenance costs, reduced susceptibility to wear, and long-term stability compared to mechanical meters like turbine or positive displacement types. For plant engineers, this translates to reduced downtime and total cost of ownership.
Its versatility​ in measuring steam, gas, and liquids makes it a “one-stop” solution for many flow applications, simplifying inventory and maintenance procedures. The wide turndown ratio​ allows for accurate measurement over a broad flow range, ensuring good performance even under varying load conditions. The integration of HART communication​ enables remote configuration, calibration, and diagnostics using standard tools, streamlining commissioning and maintenance workflows. For steam applications, its accuracy is critical for energy management and cost allocation.
Typical Applications

  • Steam Systems:​ Measuring steam flow to boilers, turbines, and process heat exchangers for energy monitoring and efficiency calculations.

  • Chemical Processing:​ Measuring the flow of various process gases and liquids where reliability and minimal maintenance are required.

  • HVAC:​ Measuring chilled water and hot water flow for building management systems.