Real-Time Exhaust Gas Flow Measurement System

A joint project was undertaken with an auto industry group, the Environmental Research Consortium (ERC), J-TEC Associates, Inc., and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) to develop an economical, real-time exhaust gas flow measurement system. A commercially available flowmeter did not exist for vehicle applications, even after 40 years of various attempts. The flowmeter that was developed, using vortex-shedding measurement principles, has wide rangeability, high accuracy, and environmental compatibility. While near-term benefits of the technology include the capability to certify a vehicle's ability to meet new environmental regulations, the flowmeter can also be used to assist in the development of new engines and enhanced engine performance.