SONOFLOW® Clamp-On Ultrasonic Flow Meter

05 December 2025

SONOFLOW® CO.55 Clamp-On Ultrasonic Flow Meter

High-Performance Non-Invasive Flow Monitoring for Sterile Manufacturing

At Fluid Biosolutions, we specialise in providing advanced instrumentation that supports the manufacture of sterile pharmaceutical products. One of our flagship offerings is the SONOFLOW® CO.55 Clamp-On Ultrasonic Flow Meter – a non-contact, highly accurate flow measurement solution designed for flexible tubing systems in the biopharmaceutical and life sciences industries.

If you’re seeking an ultrasonic flow meter that delivers precision, sterility, and scalability across all stages of drug manufacturing, the SONOFLOW CO.55 is the ideal choice.

What Is an Ultrasonic Flow Meter?

An ultrasonic flow meter is a device that calculates flow rate using the transit-time principle. By sending and receiving ultrasonic waves through the wall of a tube, the device measures how long the wave takes to travel with and against the flow. The time difference reveals the velocity of the liquid, which is then used to calculate the total flow volume.

Unlike traditional flow meters, clamp-on ultrasonic flow meters are entirely non-invasive. They don’t require fluid contact, eliminating contamination risk and simplifying validation in GMP-regulated environments.

Overview of the SONOFLOW CO.55 Clamp-On Sensor

The SONOFLOW CO.55 was purpose-built for non-contact flow measurement in flexible tubing. As a clamp-on ultrasonic flow meter, it’s particularly well-suited for single-use bioprocessing, fill-finish operations, and drug development applications.

Key Applications

Cell cultivation
Media and buffer preparation
Bioreactor monitoring
Ultrafiltration and chromatography skids
Final product filling and dosing

Its versatility across upstream and downstream processing makes it a staple for facilities that require precise, real-time flow data without disrupting the system.

Product Benefits and Features

1. Non-Contact, Hygienic Design

The sensor clamps directly onto flexible tubing, eliminating contact with the process fluid and reducing contamination risk. Ideal for cleanrooms, sterile environments, and validated production processes.

2. High Accuracy and Reliability

Delivers real-time measurement accuracy of up to ±1% under ideal conditions (typically ±2%), with a repeatability of 1.5%. This high-performance level supports regulatory compliance and quality assurance in precise bioprocessing environments.

3. Plug & Play Integration

With integrated electronics, RS-485 Modbus connectivity, and no external transmitter required, this ultrasonic flow sensor is easy to install in existing systems.

4. Reusable and Cost-Efficient

The sensor is durable and can be cleaned and reused across multiple process runs, offering both sustainability and reduced cost per batch.

5. Flexible Sizing Options

Compatible with tubing sizes from 0.125″ to 1.375″ outer diameter, with multiple housing options in aluminium or stainless steel.

6. Enhanced Monitoring with Monitor Software

With SONOTEC’s optional Monitor software, users can configure sensor settings, monitor data in real time, perform calibration, and log measurement values on-site.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Value
Flow Range	10 mL/min – 200 L/min
Accuracy	±1% (ideal conditions), typically ±2%
Repeatability	1.5%
Tubing OD Range	0.125″ – 1.375″
Operating Temperature	0°C – 60°C
Voltage	12–30 VDC
Outputs	4–20 mA, RS-485 Modbus, Frequency (0–20 kHz), Digital Input
Material Options	Aluminium or Stainless Steel Housing

View full specifications in the technical documentation.

Applications in the Biopharmaceutical Industry

The SONOFLOW CO.55 plays a critical role across all key production steps:

Upstream: Media and buffer preparation, bioreactor feed control, harvest tank monitoring.
Downstream: Chromatography and filtration skids, ultrafiltration, filling and final packaging.

With accurate flow monitoring during both upstream and downstream processes, this ultrasonic flow sensor helps ensure consistent yields, optimal dosing, and enhanced product integrity.

Seamless Integration and Control

Thanks to its compact footprint and intuitive connectivity, the SONOFLOW CO.55 is easy to retrofit into existing systems without interrupting the process.

Optional accessories include:

Portable USB Data Converter: Monitor and power the sensor directly from a PC.
Remote Display: For real-time flow readouts in GMP environments.
Monitor Software: Configure and calibrate your flow sensors easily.

Note on Bubble Detection: Bubble detection and full/empty detection are available on separate sensors from SONOTEC, such as the SONOCHECK ABD06 and SONOCONTROL 15. These specific functionalities are not included in the SONOFLOW® CO.55 sensor itself.

Why Choose Fluid Biosolutions?

Fluid Biosolutions is your trusted Australian supplier of advanced bioprocess equipment. We go beyond product delivery—we provide complete support, from selection and integration to post-sale service.

Local inventory and fast shipping
Responsive technical support from bioprocess experts
Guidance on GMP compliance and regulatory expectations
Access to the latest accessories and firmware upgrades

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the ultrasonic flow meter be used in single-use systems?

Yes, the clamp-on design allows for hygienic reuse on disposable tubing, aligning with modern single-use manufacturing workflows.

Is this compatible with silicone and TPE tubing?

Yes. The SONOFLOW CO.55 works seamlessly with most flexible plastic tubing materials commonly used in biopharma production.

Can I use the same sensor for different tube sizes?

While multiple tubing sizes are supported, sensors are optimised for specific outer diameters. Speak with our team to match the correct sensor for your process.

Does it meet GMP requirements?

Absolutely. With non-contact measurement, real-time accuracy, and reusable housing, it aligns with GMP expectations for sterility, traceability, and performance validation.