Description
Product Overview
The Panametrics DF868-2-21-10800-0-0 belongs to the DigitalFlow DF868 family of fixed-installation ultrasonic liquid flowmeters. It measures liquid flow using ultrasonic transit-time technology, allowing flow measurement without inserting a primary sensing element into the pipe when compatible clamp-on transducers are used. The DF868 family is used in industrial process monitoring, utility systems, and liquid-flow applications where operators need flow-rate data without introducing additional pressure drop from an inline meter. The precise configuration of this order number should be verified before specifying its channel count, enclosure, or optional interfaces.
DF868 instruments can measure flow velocity, volumetric flow, and totalized flow. The documented family supports clamp-on and wetted transducer arrangements, with application suitability depending on the liquid’s acoustic properties, pipe material, dimensions, and installation geometry. Published specifications include a bidirectional velocity range of approximately −40 to +40 ft/s (−12.2 to +12.2 m/s), with achievable accuracy depending on pipe size, calibration, flow profile, and transducer arrangement. For clamp-on installations, pipe preparation, transducer spacing, and adequate straight-run conditions can materially affect results.
For procurement and maintenance, confirm the complete order code and existing installation details before replacing a DF868. The family offers different power-supply options, enclosure configurations, output boards, and communications choices. Published family specifications list 100–130 V AC or 200–265 V AC power options, with an optional 12–28 V DC supply on applicable configurations. Standard isolated analog outputs and optional expansion boards are also described, but the exact hardware fitted to this unit must be verified. Record the transducer model, pipe data, channel configuration, output assignments, and programmed site parameters before removing an installed meter. A replacement that powers up may still require configuration and calibration work before its readings can be trusted.
Product Introduction
When a process line cannot accommodate an inline meter, the Panametrics DigitalFlow DF868 offers an ultrasonic approach to liquid-flow measurement. Depending on transducer selection and pipe conditions, clamp-on measurement can avoid cutting into the pipe or interrupting the process for meter-body installation.
For the -2-21-10800-0-0, verify the exact two-channel configuration, supply voltage, transducer set, and output options before ordering. Those details determine whether a replacement will fit the existing installation and deliver the required signals to the control system.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Panametrics |
| Product family | DigitalFlow |
| Model | -2-21-10800-0-0 |
| Product type | Fixed-installation ultrasonic liquid flowmeter |
| Measurement principle | Ultrasonic transit-time |
| Channel configuration | Two-channel designation; confirm exact configuration from the nameplate |
| Measured variables | Flow velocity, volumetric flow, totalized flow |
| Flow direction | Bidirectional measurement |
| Published velocity range | Approximately −12.2 to +12.2 m/s (−40 to +40 ft/s) |
| Accuracy | Application-dependent; published family figures include ±0.5% of reading achievable with process calibration |
| Repeatability | Approximately ±0.1% to ±0.3% of reading, per family specifications |
| Transducer types | Clamp-on or wetted, depending on application and ordered configuration |
| Compatible pipe materials | Metals and most plastics; confirm suitability for lined, composite, or heavily corroded pipe |
| AC power options | 100–130 V AC or 200–265 V AC, 50/60 Hz, on documented configurations |
| Optional DC supply | 12–28 V DC, ±5%, on applicable configurations |
| Power consumption | 20 W maximum |
| Standard analog outputs | Two isolated 0/4–20 mA outputs on documented configurations |
| Optional I/O | Additional analog, RTD, totalizer/frequency, and alarm relay boards, depending on configuration |
| Communications | Modbus TCP is listed for certain configurations; verify exact communication option |
| Enclosure | Options include weatherproof Type 4X/IP66 and other enclosure variants |
| Operating temperature | −20°C to +55°C, per published family specification |
| Installation requirements | Pipe dimensions, transducer spacing, and straight-run conditions must meet the applicable installation guide |
| Condition | Confirm actual condition with supplier |
Specification caution: These are family-level specifications, not confirmation that every option is fitted to -2-21-10800-0-0. Confirm the suffix-specific datasheet, enclosure, power input, transducers, and I/O boards before using the values for engineering approval.
DF868-2-21-10800-0-0
Related Products
These related models and components may help when reviewing a replacement or maintaining a installation. They are not automatically interchangeable.
- Panametrics -1-21-10800-0-0 — A cataloged single-channel configuration. Its channel count differs from the requested two-channel designation, so it should not be assumed to replace a two-channel installation.
- Panametrics -2-11-10800-0-0 — A related two-channel configuration listed in product catalogs. Compare the complete configuration code and electrical options before considering it as a replacement.
- Panametrics DigitalFlow transducer assemblies — Clamp-on and wetted transducers are used with applicable installations. Match the transducer model, frequency, pipe size, and installation method to the existing site configuration.
- Panametrics C-RS-402 transducer set — Listed with a configuration in product records. Verify the full sensor part number and compatibility with the target meter before reuse.
- Panametrics WT-1/P transducer set — Also listed with a configuration. Confirm its intended application and the complete transducer details before specifying it for the requested unit.
- Panametrics DigitalFlow analog output boards — Optional boards can add isolated current outputs. Check the installed board type, available slots, and output assignments before planning an I/O expansion.
- Panametrics DigitalFlow alarm relay boards — Optional relay boards provide alarm contacts on supported configurations. Verify contact ratings and whether the required board is installed in the existing meter.
DF868-2-21-10800-0-0
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the Panametrics -2-21-10800-0-0 measure?
The family measures liquid flow using ultrasonic transit-time technology. Depending on the configuration and application, it can provide flow velocity, volumetric flow, and totalized flow data. Energy measurement requires suitable temperature inputs and the appropriate setup.
2. Is the a non-invasive flowmeter?
It can be. When configured with compatible clamp-on transducers, the meter measures flow from outside the pipe, avoiding an inline meter body. Wetted-transducer arrangements are also supported by the family. Select the method based on pipe construction, liquid properties, operating conditions, and required measurement performance.
3. Can I hot-swap this flowmeter?
Do not assume hot-swap capability. Isolate the electrical supply in accordance with the site procedure before disconnecting the electronics. If the meter feeds a live process-control loop, assess the effect of losing its analog outputs, communications, and flow indication. Arrange an approved bypass or operating response if required.
4. Does this exact model support firmware v3.1?
Compatibility with firmware v3.1 has not been verified for the exact order code. Confirm the meter’s hardware revision, installed software version, and the relevant programming or service documentation. Do not apply firmware intended for a different configuration without manufacturer guidance.
5. Can the connect directly to a PLC or DCS?
The family supports isolated 0/4–20 mA outputs, and some configurations offer digital communications such as Modbus TCP. The available interface depends on the ordered and installed I/O options. Confirm the output board, scaling, signal assignment, communication protocol, and PLC/DCS input configuration before wiring.
6. Will replacing the meter preserve the existing flow calibration?
Do not assume so. Record the pipe dimensions and material, transducer model and spacing, measurement path, liquid settings, and output scaling before replacement. Back up or document the existing site configuration where possible. After installation, verify signal quality and compare readings against a trusted reference or approved commissioning procedure.
7. What should I check before purchasing a replacement?
Request the full nameplate and configuration code, photographs of the electronics and terminals, the transducer model and quantity, power-input details, fitted I/O boards, and available test records. For used or refurbished equipment, ask whether the display, power supply, measurement channels, outputs, and communications were tested. Confirm actual condition with supplier and obtain written warranty terms before purchase.
