Thanks Ben,
Yes, there are many possible piping arrangements, especially the order of components. I definately will not be placing the pump after the block. I'm a firm believer in only throttling a centrifugal pumps discharge - always try to minimize any restrictions on the suction side (I agree with pH). I guess I could place the block upstream in the flow path (pump > block > filter > flow meter > throttle valves > res) to minimize the affects of heat generated by restrictions. I will just have to try it different ways to see if there is any measurable difference.
The chiller I'm looking at has a digital controller and can be programmed with a temp offset, which may be useful it setting actual block inlet temp.
Yes, the recirculating pumps built-in to most chillers do not have the head or flow needed for the main test loop.
Manometer - to measure the Delta P across the block you would just connect each side of the manometer U-tube to the inlet and outlet press ports of the block.
I believe flow "sensor" is a generic term that includes all types of flow measuring and detection devices. A flow "meter" specifically measures flow rate while a flow "indicator" generally gives a yes/no (on/off) indication of flow.
The 10 D rule is applicable to certain types of invasive flow meters (turbines, paddle wheels, etc). Some units have flow straighteners built-in and some other types don't care.
50 micron was just an initial guesstimate - more of a strainer than a filter, fine enough to keep the chunks out (protect flow meter) but not so fine as to require frequent maintenace and create a substantial press drop.
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