E&H 6BAB thermal mass flowmeter

E&H 6BAB thermal mass flowmeter

1. Product Overview

The Endress+Hauser Proline t-mass B 150 (order code root 6BAB) is an economical insertion thermal mass flowmeter engineered for direct mass measurement of utility gases in large circular pipes and rectangular ventilation ducts. Where premium thermal flowmeters may be over-specified for simple utility gas monitoring, the 6BAB series delivers reliable direct gas mass measurement with negligible pressure loss and maintenance-free operation at an attractive price point.

The t-mass B 150 insertion device is specially designed for the cost-effective measurement of utility gases, in particular compressed air. It is a trending device aimed at sub-metering and in-house consumption accountancy applications where accurate flow trending is required without the complexity or expense of higher-end instrumentation. The 4-wire technology is contained within a rugged compact aluminum housing. It is orderable either with display or as a blind version. Customer-specific settings are saved on the display and can be transferred from one device to another by means of the display.-

Unlike inline meters that require pipe cutting and spool piece installation, the 6BAB insertion probe installs through a small threaded connection — a critical advantage for large-diameter gas measurement where inline meters become prohibitively expensive. Simultaneously measures mass flow, gas temperature, and corrected volume (e.g., Nm³, SCFM), offering comprehensive data for process analysis. This makes the 6BAB series the ideal entry point into the Proline family for users requiring reliable gas flow measurement in large pipes with minimal capital investment.-

Distributor: ST-YUKE CO., LIMITED — Authorized supplier of genuine Endress+Hauser instrumentation with global shipping capabilities and comprehensive technical support.

2. Technical Specifications at a Glance

Specifications derived from Technical Information document.

3. The Insertion Economic Advantage: Why Choose the B 150 Series

Unlike premium thermal mass flowmeters designed for high-accuracy process control, the 6BAB series is purpose-built for utility gas sub-metering and consumption monitoring where cost-effectiveness is paramount. This architectural focus delivers several critical benefits:

Lower Initial Investment — The 6BAB series eliminates unnecessary features and certifications that drive up cost in higher-tier t-mass models, providing only the essential functionality required for utility gas measurement at a significantly reduced price point. It offers an affordable solution for gas flow measurement without compromising on reliability.-11

Large Pipe Capability Without High Cost — For pipelines larger than DN 80 (3 inches), the cost of an inline meter grows exponentially with pipe diameter. The 6BAB insertion probe requires only a small threaded process connection, drastically lowering material costs for DN 150–1500 applications. The insertion version is suitable for nominal diameter DN 80 to 1500 (3 to 60 inches).–17

Negligible Pressure Loss — The insertion design creates minimal obstruction to flow, making the 6BAB suitable for installation in existing compressed air networks and gas distribution systems without compromising system pressure or requiring upsizing of compressors. Installation is easy with negligible pressure loss.–12

Minimal Process Interruption — The insertion assembly can be installed through a compression fitting without shutting down the pipeline, enabling retrofitting of flow measurement to existing gas distribution networks with zero production downtime. Sensor installation and removal without process interruption are supported.-9-12

Maintenance-Free Operation — With no moving parts to wear or foul, the 6BAB series requires no routine maintenance or recalibration under normal operating conditions. The thermal mass measurement principle inherently avoids the mechanical wear issues associated with turbine meters.-11

Versatile Duct Installation — Unlike inline meters that require circular pipe sections, the 6BAB probe can be installed in rectangular ducts — a critical capability for HVAC airflow monitoring and large-scale ventilation systems.-

Simple Commissioning — Guided operating menus and plain-text display options enable fast, efficient commissioning without specialized training. Fast and efficient commissioning with guided operating menus ensures quick startup.-12

Multivariable Measurement — Simultaneously measures mass flow, gas temperature, and corrected volume (Nm³, SCFM, etc.), eliminating the need for separate temperature sensors or flow computers for standard gas monitoring applications.-11

4. Four Insertion Depth Variants — Complete Lineup of the 6BAB Series

The 6BAB series spans four distinct insertion depth configurations, each engineered for specific pipe diameter ranges. All variants share identical transmitter electronics, sensor technology, and communication capabilities — only the probe length and process coupling design differ.

4.1 Model 6BABL1 — Standard Insertion Depth (DN 80–200 / 3–8 inches)

The 6BABL1 variant is the standard insertion configuration suitable for circular pipes from DN 80 to approximately DN 200 (3 to 8 inches). The probe length ensures that the sensing element reaches the optimum measurement position near the pipe centerline. This variant is the most commonly stocked configuration for medium-sized compressed air mains and gas headers.

Example order codes:

6BABL1-AADAAAASAGA1G+AA — DN 80–200, blind version without display, standard calibration (decoded in detail below)

6BABL1-AADACAASAGA1G — DN 80–200, with display, standard calibration-28

6BABL1-AADBCADSANA1K+AA — DN 80–200, with display, HART, extended calibration-

Typical applications: Compressed air mains, nitrogen distribution lines, medium-sized gas headers, and utility gas monitoring in manufacturing plants.

4.2 Model 6BABL2 — Extended Insertion Depth (DN 200–500 / 8–20 inches)

The 6BABL2 configuration extends the insertion probe length to accommodate pipe diameters from DN 200 to approximately DN 500 (8 to 20 inches). The longer probe ensures proper flow engagement in larger bore pipes where a standard probe would fail to reach the turbulent flow core. This variant is particularly prominent in power generation facilities and large-scale industrial compressed air systems.

Example order code:

6BABL2-AADACAASAGA1K+AK — DN 200–500, with display, extended calibration-

Typical applications: Power generation compressed air systems, large industrial boiler plants, central utility air distribution.

4.3 Model 6BABL3 — Deep Insertion Depth (DN 500–1000 / 20–40 inches)

Engineered for large-diameter pipelines from DN 500 to DN 1000 (20 to 40 inches), the 6BABL3 variant features a reinforced insertion tube design that maintains mechanical rigidity while achieving the necessary insertion depth. This configuration is frequently specified for main natural gas intake lines and large-scale process air handling systems.

Example order code:

6BABL3-C4DACACSANA2GPH — DN 500–1000, ATEX/IECEx certified, display version-16

Typical applications: Main natural gas headers, large-scale ventilation systems, flare gas monitoring.

4.4 Model 6BABL4 — Maximum Insertion Depth (DN 1000–1500 / 40–60 inches)

At the top of the range, 6BABL4 delivers the longest insertion probe for pipes from DN 1000 to DN 1500 (40 to 60 inches) and for rectangular ducts of equivalent hydraulic diameter. The extended probe incorporates additional mechanical support features to withstand process flow-induced vibration while maintaining measurement accuracy. This variant is the ultimate solution for very large gas distribution networks and industrial ductwork applications.

Example order codes:

6BABL4-C4DBCADSANA2G — DN 1000–1500, ATEX/IECEx certified, display version-16

6BABL4-AADBCAASAHA1G+AK — DN 1000–1500, display, standard calibration, Chinese language-17

6BABL4-I5DKCADSAHA1K — DN 1000–1500, advanced configuration-

Typical applications: Very large gas distribution networks, tunnel ventilation systems, industrial ductwork, main plant headers.

5. Order Code Breakdown: 6BABL1-AADAAAASAGA1G+AA

To facilitate precise device configuration, specification verification, and procurement, each 6BAB-series flowmeter carries a comprehensive order code that encodes every built-in feature. The following analysis decodes the complete order code structure using the example 6BABL1-AADAAAASAGA1G+AA:

Root Code: 6BABL1

6BAB = Proline t-mass B 150 series product family

L1 = Insertion depth variant L1 (DN 80–200 / 3–8 inches)

Feature Breakdown (Sequential positions after hyphen):

This order code breakdown follows the Endress+Hauser product configuration schema. For verification of any existing device or to build a custom configuration, the order code can be entered into the Endress+Hauser Device Viewer (www.endress.com/deviceviewer) to retrieve complete specification details.

Additional example order codes in the field:

6BABL1-AADACAASAGA1G — L1 variant with display (feature position 030 = C)-28

6BABL2-AADACAASAGA1K+AK — L2 variant with extended calibration, display-

6BABL3-C4DACACSANA2GPH — L3 variant with ATEX/IECEx certification-16

6BABL4-C4DBCADSANA2G — L4 variant with ATEX/IECEx certification-16

6BABL4-AADBCAASAHA1G+AK — L4 variant with display, Chinese language option-17

6BABL1-AADBCADSANA1K+AA — L1 variant with display, HART, extended calibration-

6. Measuring Principle

The thermal mass flow measurement principle employed by the 6BAB series is based on the cooling effect of a flowing gas stream passing over a heated resistance element. Two sensing elements reside within the insertion probe: one serves as a temperature reference monitoring the actual process temperature, while the other is maintained at a constant differential temperature above the process temperature by controlled heating current. As gas mass flow increases, more heat is extracted from the heated sensor, requiring greater electrical current to maintain the temperature differential. This heating current is directly proportional to the mass flow rate — with no separate pressure or temperature compensation required under stable gas composition conditions.

The thermal mass flow measurement principle is characterized by a high operable flow range and direct mass flow measurement. There are two PT100 temperature sensors inside the thermal mass flowmeter: one sensor measures the current fluid temperature as a reference value, and the other sensor is heated and maintains a constant temperature difference relative to the previous sensor.-1-

Direct Mass Flow Output — The 6BAB series provides direct mass flow readings in engineering units (kg/h, lb/h, Nm³/h, SCFM, etc.) without requiring external pressure or temperature transmitters or flow computers.

Multivariable Measurement — Each 6BAB unit simultaneously measures mass flow, gas temperature, and corrected volume (normal or standard conditions), delivering comprehensive process data through a single device.-11

Gas Selection — The 6BAB series is factory-configured for specific gases. Standard supported gases include air, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and argon — the most common utility gases in industrial applications.–1

Air-Based Calibration — Factory calibration is performed on air traceable to international standards, eliminating the expense of real-gas calibration for standard utility gas applications. For applications requiring higher accuracy on specific gases, custom calibration options are available at order time.

7. Wetted Materials and Process Connections

The 6BAB series employs high-quality stainless steel materials suitable for clean utility gas applications:

Material specifications derived from Technical Information document.

Process connection standards available:

G3/4″, ISO 228/1 with compression fitting, EPDM or HNBR seals, PEEK clamping ring-17

NPT threaded connections

BSPT threaded connections (upon request)

Housing and Protection:

Compact aluminum housing with corrosion-resistant coating

IP66/67 enclosure protection rating, Type 4X, suitable for outdoor installation

Operating ambient temperature: –40 °C to +60 °C (–40 °F to +140 °F)

Rectangular duct installation: For rectangular duct applications, the insertion probe is installed through the duct wall with appropriate sealing arrangements. Multiple probe installations may be required for ducts larger than 1 meter in hydraulic diameter to account for non-uniform flow profiles.-9

8. Key Advantages and Differentiating Features

Cost-Effective Sub-Metering Solution — The 6BAB series is purpose-built for utility gas sub-metering applications where the measurement accuracy of higher-tier instruments would be over-specified. It delivers reliable flow trending at an entry-level price point.–

Negligible Pressure Loss — Unlike orifice plates or turbine meters that create significant pressure drop, the 6BAB insertion design causes minimal flow restriction, preserving system pressure and reducing compressor energy consumption.–12

Maintenance-Free Operation — With no moving parts, the 6BAB requires no routine maintenance, lubrication, or recalibration under normal operating conditions. This dramatically reduces total cost of ownership compared to mechanical gas meters.-11

Hot-Tap Installation Capability — The insertion assembly can be installed through a compression fitting without shutting down the pipeline. Sensor installation and removal without process interruption enable retrofitting to existing gas distribution networks with zero production downtime.-9-12

Optional Display with Data Backup — The optional 4-line backlit graphic display module provides local readout of all process variables and diagnostic information. User-specific settings can be saved to the display module and transferred to a replacement device, minimizing downtime during service events.–28

Easy Commissioning — Guided operating menus and plain-text display (on display-equipped variants) enable fast, efficient commissioning without specialized training or configuration software.-12

Self-Diagnostics and Error Monitoring — The 6BAB continuously monitors its own operational status and reports diagnostic information via the HART communication channel, improving plant availability and enabling predictive maintenance.-12

High Turndown Ratio — Up to 100:1 turndown enables accurate measurement across a wide range of flow conditions, from low-flow idle periods to peak production demands, using a single device.-11

Automatic Data Recovery for Servicing — When the optional display module is used, device configuration is stored on the display. During replacement, the new device automatically adopts the saved settings, eliminating reconfiguration time.-

Rectangular Duct Compatibility — Unlike inline meters that require circular pipe sections, the 6BAB probe can be installed in rectangular ducts — a critical capability for HVAC airflow monitoring and large-scale ventilation systems.-

9. Supported Gases and Application Suitability

The 6BAB series is factory-configured for the following utility gases:

Primary Supported Gases:

Air — Compressed air systems, pneumatic networks, HVAC, combustion air monitoring

Nitrogen (N₂) — Inerting, purging, blanketing, food packaging

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) — Food & beverage carbonation, welding shielding gas, pH control

Argon (Ar) — Welding shielding gas, metallurgical processes, laboratory applications

Why Only Four Gases? — Unlike higher-tier t-mass models (F 300/F 500 series) that support up to 21 gases, the 6BAB series is purpose-limited to the most common utility gases to reduce cost and simplify ordering for sub-metering applications. For applications requiring measurement of hydrogen, natural gas, methane, propane, or custom gas mixtures, ST-YUKE recommends upgrading to the Proline t-mass F 300 (6F3B) or F 500 (6F5B) series.

Key Application Areas:

10. Installation and Operational Requirements

To ensure optimal measurement performance, the following installation guidelines should be observed:

Insertion Depth — The sensing element must be positioned at the pipe centerline for circular pipes or at the appropriate flow measurement position for rectangular ducts. The four L1–L4 variants are pre-sized to achieve correct insertion depth for specific pipe diameter ranges.

Insertion Orientation — For horizontal pipes, the probe should be inserted from the side (horizontal insertion) or from the top to avoid liquid accumulation on the sensing element. Vertical insertion from the bottom is not recommended for gas applications where condensate may be present.

Straight Run Requirements — A minimum of 5 × pipe diameter upstream straight run and 3 × diameter downstream straight run is recommended. For installations with bends, reducers, or valves immediately upstream, longer straight runs (10 × diameter) are advised.

Hot-Tap Installation — The 6BAB series supports hot-tap installation through a compression fitting, enabling insertion and retraction without process shutdown. This capability is particularly valuable for existing gas distribution networks where downtime is unacceptable.-9-12

Rectangular Ducts — For rectangular ducts, the probe should be inserted to a depth of approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of the duct width, depending on the flow profile. Multiple probe installations may be required for ducts larger than 1 meter in hydraulic diameter.

Environmental Conditions — The compact aluminum housing (IP66/67, Type 4X) is suitable for outdoor installation. The operating ambient temperature range is –40 °C to +60 °C (–40 °F to +140 °F).-12

Medium Temperature — The 6BAB series is rated for gas temperatures from –40 °C to +100 °C (–40 °F to +212 °F).-11-17

Electrical Connections — Standard M20 × 1.5 cable gland entries accommodate signal and power cabling. HART communication requires a minimum load resistance of 250 Ω between device and power supply.

Power Supply — The 6BAB series operates on 18–30 V DC power supply (4-wire technology).-12-17

11. Communication and I/O Configuration

The 6BAB transmitter supports HART communication with the following I/O options:

Standard Output Configuration:

4–20mA HART analog output (for mass flow or corrected volume)

Pulse/frequency output (for totalization)

Status output (for diagnostic or limit alarms)

HART Communication Capabilities:

Digital access to all process variables (mass flow, gas temperature, corrected volume)

Remote device configuration and parameter adjustment

Diagnostic data retrieval and device status monitoring

Multi-drop mode for multiple instruments on a single 4–20mA loop

The 6BAB series does not support Modbus RS485, PROFIBUS, or EtherNet/IP. For applications requiring these digital fieldbus protocols, ST-YUKE recommends the Proline t-mass F 300 (6F3B) or F 500 (6F5B) series with Modbus RS485 option.

12. Why Source the 6BAB Series from ST-YUKE CO., LIMITED

ST-YUKE CO., LIMITED is a recognized distributor of Endress+Hauser instrumentation, providing the full Proline t-mass B 150 insertion series (6BABL1, 6BABL2, 6BABL3, 6BABL4) with:

Genuine product certification — Every unit sourced directly from Endress+Hauser manufacturing facilities

Global shipping — Express delivery to major industrial centers worldwide

Technical pre-sales support — Order code configuration assistance and application engineering

Competitive pricing — Volume discounts available for OEMs and system integrators

Post-sales documentation — Complete technical information packages (TI, BA, KA, GP) provided with each shipment

For inquiries, quotations, or technical consultation regarding any 6BAB-series model, contact ST-YUKE CO., LIMITED directly.

Upgrade Paths Available:

For higher accuracy and 21 gas support → Proline t-mass F 300 (6F3B) or F 500 (6F5B) series

For SIL 2 certification → Proline t-mass F 300 (6F3B) or F 500 (6F5B) series

For high gas temperatures (up to +180 °C) → Proline t-mass F 300 (6F3B) or F 500 (6F5B) series

For inline measurement in smaller pipes (DN 15–50) → Proline t-mass A 150 (6AAB) series

13. Downloads and Supporting Documentation

The following official Endress+Hauser documents provide complete technical information for the 6BAB series (available via www.endress.com or through ST-YUKE CO., LIMITED):

These documents contain the full technical data necessary for engineering, procurement, installation, and maintenance of the 6BAB series insertion thermal mass flowmeters.

14. Model Comparison: 6BAB Series vs. Other t-mass Series