A review of solid particles mass flow rate measuring methods: screening analytic hierarchy process for methods prioritization

Selecting the applicable measurement method in the measuring process of solid particle’s mass flow rate is of great importance in pneumatic conveying. Accurate prioritization of measurement methods from the important indices viewpoint’s such as cost, repeatability, low calibration, ability to run, and response time can assess this selection. In the present study, the solid particle’s mass flow rate measurement methods in two phase flows were studied comprehensively. Then, as a novelty, a systematic method namely analytic hierarchy process (AHP), was applied to prioritize measurement indices and methods. Results revealed that the repeatability index has the greatest priority in selecting the appropriate method. Based on this index, the coriolis force meter method was identified as the best measuring method. Additionally, regarding all the indices, acoustic method is selected as the most appropriate method. In this study, provided a systematic decision process and a knowledge base for using AHP in prioritizing measurement methods. Graphical Abstract