Coriolis mass flow meter calibration for liquid

Coriolis mass flow meter calibration for liquid involves comparing the instrument’s mass flow output against a traceable gravimetric or volumetric reference standard to verify accuracy across the required flow range. The calibration certificate records the indicated mass flow, reference mass flow, error and measurement uncertainty at each calibrated point. UKAS accreditation provides independent assurance that the methods and reference standards used are assessed to ISO/IEC 17025:2017.

Coriolis meters measure mass flow directly — not inferred from volumetric flow and density separately. This makes them uniquely accurate for batch dosing and mass-based process control, particularly where liquid density varies with temperature or concentration. They also measure fluid density simultaneously. The trade-off is higher cost and larger pressure drop compared to electromagnetic or paddle wheel meters. For applications where mass accuracy is critical, Coriolis is typically the preferred technology.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing under GMP, annual calibration is standard practice. For food production under BRC or SQF standards, annual calibration is also typical. Some organisations calibrate Coriolis instruments used as primary flow references more frequently, or verify their performance against a secondary check standard between formal calibration intervals. Calibration intervals should be defined in your quality management system.

Coriolis meters measure mass flow independent of liquid properties, so calibration with water is generally sufficient for instruments used with other liquids of similar density. For instruments used with highly viscous liquids, liquids with very different density from water, or where the meter’s density measurement function is also used, contact us to discuss whether calibration with the actual process liquid or a surrogate is required for your application.

Well-maintained Coriolis meters in calibration typically achieve mass flow accuracy of ±0.1–0.5% of reading, depending on the model and flow range. UKAS calibration determines the current accuracy and measurement uncertainty for your specific instrument and range. The calibration certificate states the uncertainty so you can verify it meets the accuracy requirement of your process or quality management system.