Quick answer: which installation fits?
Choose a clamp-on sensor when the meter should stay outside a compatible tube and avoiding liquid contact or pipe cutting matters. Choose an inline meter when a process-connected measuring section fits the equipment layout and its wetted materials can be confirmed. Neither choice is universal: check the actual liquid, flow range and tubing before selecting a model.
How the acoustic paths differ
Both approaches use ultrasonic transit-time measurement. A clamp-on sensor sends and receives sound through the tube wall, so tube material, wall thickness and outside diameter affect signal quality. An inline meter uses a defined measuring section in the flow path; its process connections and wetted materials must suit the liquid.
Compare tube size and installation
The FS-930 clamp-on catalog configuration covers 9.53–110 mm tube outside diameter. The FS-910 inline configuration is listed for 3–12.7 mm tube outside diameter and a 50 ms response. The FS-920 is an integrated inline option for industrial equipment and utility lines; confirm its final connection and size rather than assuming the FS-910 dimensions apply. For any option, review mounting position and disturbances from nearby valves, pumps or bends.
Liquid contact and pressure loss
The FS-930 sensor has no wetted parts and does not require a pipe cut, but the existing tube still needs chemical and pressure compatibility. An inline meter requires wetted-material review. Although ultrasonic meters have no moving obstruction for measurement, inline bodies and fittings can still create hydraulic pressure loss; request the pressure-drop data for the selected size.
What can weaken an ultrasonic signal?
Transit-time measurement is generally best with clean liquid and a fully filled line. Entrained air, heavy solids or unsuitable acoustic properties can reduce signal quality. Check minimum, normal and maximum flow, temperature, pressure, viscosity, tube dimensions and the required output before comparing accuracy figures, which are stated for particular configurations and velocity ranges.
Shortlist the right CurioSens model
Consider FS-930 for non-invasive monitoring of compatible clean-liquid tubing, especially where liquid contact is undesirable. Consider FS-910 for clean liquids in small tubes. Consider FS-920 when an integrated inline instrument with local indication is needed on an industrial line. Send the medium, tube material and dimensions, flow window, operating conditions and desired signal to CurioSens for a configuration review.
Compare relevant models
These catalog figures describe published configurations; confirm the final sizing and application with an engineer.
This guide supports early selection and does not replace a confirmed product datasheet. Send the medium, range, temperature, pressure and connection to CurioSens for configuration review.