Flow and Temperature Measurement in Heat Pumps
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Modern heat pump systems face increasingly high demands: They must deliver maximum efficiency while adapting flexibly to changing operating conditions. Precise measurement and monitoring of flow and temperature are essential to achieving this. Only with accurate sensor data can the heat pump’s control system be optimized to ensure performance, energy consumption, and longevity.
The Challenge: Flow rates fluctuate depending on operating conditions, high-efficiency pumps work with very low flow rates, and even the smallest temperature differences significantly impact overall performance. Inaccurate measurements can prevent the heat pump from operating optimally—negatively affecting the COP value, heating system stability, and component longevity.
Reliable flow measurement is key to efficiently controlling the heating and hot water circuits. Whether in air-to-water or brine heat pumps, accurate volume flow detection ensures that heating circuit pumps operate as needed, heat exchangers are used optimally, and energy losses are minimized.
SIKA’s Vortex flow sensors are specifically designed to meet these demands. They enable precise and maintenance-free volume flow measurement ranging from 2.5 l/min to 400 l/min, depending on the model and nominal size. Their low-pressure loss ensures that high-efficiency pumps operate with minimal energy consumption—a crucial advantage for the overall performance of the heat pump.
With a wide range of nominal sizes from DN15 to DN40 and versions available in brass or plastic, SIKA sensors offer flexible integration into various liquid cooling systems, including those for server rooms.
Thanks to their robust construction, the sensors are resistant to pressure peaks and contaminants, making them particularly suitable for heating circuits. The VVX series VVX series meets a wide range of requirements, from compact plastic sensors to brass versions for industrial applications. The VVX20 Low Delta p was specifically developed for next-generation heat pumps with ultra-low pressure losses, ensuring reliable control even at minimal flow rates.
Not only precise measurement but also flow rate monitoring plays a crucial role in the operational safety of heat pumps. Low flow rates—caused by air bubbles, contamination, or pump failures—can lead to damage to the heat exchanger or disrupt system operation.
SIKA provides a reliable solution for pump control and leakage detection with its flow switches. These sensors detect when the flow rate drops below a critical threshold and trigger an automatic shutdown or alert to the control system. This not only protects the heat pump but also optimizes the entire heating circuit.
Temperature measurement in heat pumps goes beyond simply monitoring supply and return temperatures. It directly impacts the efficiency of the evaporator and condenser, the optimal control of the defrosting process, and the regulation of the hot water storage system.
SIKA’s high-precision temperature sensors are designed for these critical tasks. They provide real-time accurate readings, feature ultra-fast response times, and offer long-term stability—essential for reliable regulation over many years. The WFI temperature sensor with Mini-Fit connector is particularly well-suited for use in hot water and heating circuits, as it reacts instantly to rapid temperature changes.
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Temperature always under control
• Fast response time
• Precise measurement
from -40 to +125 °C
• Compact and reliable
• Perfect for heating circuits
and hot water systems
• Easy integration via plug connector -
Protects Against Low Flow
• Reliable monitoring
• Prevents freezing
• Direct installation in pipes
• Suitable for pipe diameters
from 32 to 88.9 mm
• Maintenance-free -
Efficient Flow Measurement
• For flow rates from 2 to 150 l/min
• Low pressure loss
• Precise and maintenance-free
• Flexible signal output:
analog & digital
• Ideal for heating and
hot water systems -
Efficient, Safe, Precise
• Accurate measurement
for efficient regulation
• Prevents freezing and
system malfunctions
• Optimized for heating circuits
and hot water systems
• Reduces energy consumption
and extends lifespan
-
Temperature always under control
• Fast response time
• Precise measurement
from -40 to +125 °C
• Compact and reliable
• Perfect for heating circuits
and hot water systems
• Easy integration via plug connector -
Protects Against Low Flow
• Reliable monitoring
• Prevents freezing
• Direct installation in pipes
• Suitable for pipe diameters
from 32 to 88.9 mm
• Maintenance-free -
Efficient Flow Measurement
• For flow rates from 2 to 150 l/min
• Low pressure loss
• Precise and maintenance-free
• Flexible signal output:
analog & digital
• Ideal for heating and
hot water systems -
Efficient, Safe, Precise
• Accurate measurement
for efficient regulation
• Prevents freezing and
system malfunctions
• Optimized for heating circuits
and hot water systems
• Reduces energy consumption
and extends lifespan
The efficiency of a heat pump is largely determined by its Coefficient of Performance (COP). The more efficient the measurement technology in heat pumps and the more precisely flow, temperature, and pressure data are monitored and recorded, the better the control system can operate—resulting in higher overall performance with minimal energy consumption.
Especially in combination with high-efficiency pumps, the sensors unleash their full potential. They help precisely adjust flow rates, optimize temperature differentials, and intelligently manage load changes—ensuring that the heat pump operates efficiently and safely at all times.
SIKA provides precise and reliable solutions: Flow sensors, temperature sensors and flow switches, all specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of heat pumps.
