Fox Thermal recently announced two product updates for its FT1, FT4A and FT4X thermal mass flowmeters: a new ½-inch diameter option for insertion probes and expanded Gas-SelectX gas selection menus. Together, these enhancements give facilities greater flexibility when upgrading existing flowmeter installations, adapting to changing process gases and validating meter performance in the field.

The new ½-inch probe option gives users a practical path to upgrade flowmeter technology in applications with smaller process connections. Fox Thermal’s ½-inch probe requires a minimum pipe opening of 0.531 inches, compared to the 0.781-inch or larger opening required for the standard ¾-inch probe. In compatible installations, users may be able to reuse an existing connection and avoid the downtime, labor and cost associated with adding a new branch outlet.

The optional ½-inch insertion probe is available for FT1, FT4A and FT4X insertion-type flowmeters. It is supplied standard with a ¾-inch MNPT compression fitting, with an optional ½-inch MNPT fitting available. The new probe diameter also enables ½-inch flow body sizes on inline models, available with either male NPT or ANSI 150-lb. flange end connections.

“Everyone wants more accurate measurements for better process optimization, but reworking piping for flow meter upgrades can be costly and disruptive to production,” said Greg Smith, product line manager for Fox Thermal. “Our new ½-inch probe gives users more flexibility in where the FT1, FT4A and FT4X can be installed, making it easier for existing facilities to take advantage of Fox Thermal’s latest advancements in digital measurement, field diagnostics, gas selection and communication capabilities.”

The FT1 and FT4A models support insertion line sizes from 1.5 inches to 70 inches and inline configurations with flow conditioners from ½-inch to 6 inches. The FT4X supports the same insertion and inline size ranges, with an optional remote sensor mounting configuration. FT1 is rated for velocities up to 25,000 SFPM, while FT4A and FT4X are rated for velocities up to 60,000 SFPM. These options support a wide range of industrial process, oil and gas, wastewater and biogas applications.

Fox Thermal has also expanded the Gas-SelectX gas selection menus across the FT1, FT4A and FT4X product lines. FT1 users can now choose from 17 gases and gas mixtures, while FT4A and FT4X users can select from more than 40 gases and gas mixtures. This added flexibility helps operators adapt to changing process gas compositions in the field while maintaining accurate and reliable flow measurement.

All three models also support CAL-V calibration validation, allowing facilities to verify meter performance without removing the instrument from service. Combined with expanded gas selections, CAL-V helps users reduce maintenance disruptions, simplify field verification and keep critical flow measurement points operating with confidence.