Endress+Hauser Flowmeters

Endress+Hauser Flowmeters: Technological Innovations and Market Leadership in Process Automation

1. Strategic Partnership and Corporate Evolution

Endress+Hauser (E+H), a global leader in process automation and instrumentation, has solidified its market dominance through a groundbreaking strategic partnership with SICK AG, a pioneer in sensor technology. Announced in January 2025, this collaboration integrates SICK's advanced gas analysis and flow measurement solutions into E+H's comprehensive portfolio. The joint venture, *Endress+Hauser SICK GmbH+Co. KG*, operates with equal ownership (50:50) and combines R&D, manufacturing, and global distribution capabilities. With 730 employees across German facilities, the alliance aims to address evolving industrial demands for efficiency, sustainability, and carbon footprint reduction.

This partnership marks a pivotal shift in E+H's offerings. By acquiring SICK's gas and flow measurement expertise, E+H now delivers end-to-end solutions for industries ranging from oil and gas to pharmaceuticals. Notably, since January 2025, E+H has exclusively marketed SICK's flowmeters worldwide, leveraging its expansive sales network to penetrate new markets. In China, the transition concludes on March 1, 2025, aligning with regional technical requirements.

2. Core Technologies and Product Portfolio

Endress+Hauser flowmeters combine decades of engineering excellence with SICK's ultrasonic and gas measurement innovations. Key technologies include:

2.1 Ultrasonic Flowmeters

Derived from SICK's FLOWSIC series, E+H's ultrasonic flowmeters utilize **time-of-flight (ToF)** and **phase-shift measurement** principles. These devices excel in both liquid and gas applications:  

Multichannel Design: The FLOWSIC600-XT model employs 4+4 ultrasonic paths to achieve ±0.5% accuracy, complying with trade-grade standards like OIML R137. This design mitigates flow profile distortions, making it ideal for natural gas pipelines and hydrogen-blended systems.

Hydrogen Compatibility: With certifications from DNV and PTB, Endress+Hauser flowmeters support hydrogen concentrations up to 30%, positioning them as critical tools for the energy transition.

2.2 Electromagnetic Flowmeters

E+H's legacy *Promag* series remains a staple for conductive liquids. Features include:

Zero Maintenance: Absence of moving parts ensures longevity in wastewater and chemical processing.

Smart Verification: Embedded Heartbeat Technology continuously monitors sensor health, reducing downtime.

2.3 Coriolis Mass Flowmeters

The *Micropromass* series offers high-precision mass flow and density measurement for challenging fluids (e.g., slurries, high-viscosity liquids). Its dual-tube design minimizes external vibration interference, achieving ±0.1% repeatability.

2.4 Thermal Dispersion Flowmeters

Optimized for compressed air and gas monitoring, devices like *T-mass* use thermal sensors to measure mass flow directly, eliminating pressure and temperature compensation.

3. Industry-Specific Solutions

Endress+Hauser flowmeters cater to diverse sectors with tailored designs:

3.1 Energy and Utilities

Natural Gas Transmission: The FLOWSIC600-XT is deployed in cross-border pipelines such as the China-Russia Eastern Route, ensuring custody transfer accuracy under extreme pressures (up to 40 bar).

Hydrogen Infrastructure**: As nations adopt hydrogen-blending policies, E+H's flowmeters enable seamless integration into existing grids, supported by AI-driven leak detection algorithms.

3.2 Water and Wastewater Management

Non-Revenue Water Reduction: Ultrasonic flowmeters like *Prosonic Flow 93* detect leaks in distribution networks, while electromagnetic sensors monitor chemical dosing in treatment plants.

3.3 Pharmaceutical and Food Production

Hygienic Design**: The *DOSIC®* series features electrolytically polished surfaces (Ra ≤0.8 μm) and CIP/SIP compatibility, meeting FDA and EHEDG standards for sterile processes.

3.4 Chemical and Petrochemical

• **Corrosion Resistance**: Flowmeters with Hastelloy C-22 wetted parts withstand aggressive media, while explosion-proof certifications (ATEX, IECEx) ensure safety in hazardous zones.

4. Market Outlook and Future Trends

The flowmeter market is projected to grow at 8.2% CAGR through 2030, driven by digitalization and energy transition. E+H is poised to lead with:

• Hydrogen Economy Readiness**: Expanding certifications for 100% hydrogen compatibility by 2026.

• Edge Computing Integration**: On-device data processing reduces latency for critical applications like flare gas monitoring.

• Modular Designs**: Customizable flowmeters allow rapid retrofitting in aging infrastructure, cutting upgrade costs by 20%.

Endress+Hauser's strategic acquisition of SICK's flow measurement technologies has redefined its role as an industrial automation titan. By merging precision engineering with digital innovation, E+H empowers industries to achieve operational excellence and sustainability.