Flowrate measurements of conducting fluids in pipes using the magnetic distortion probe

A contactless and local velocimetry technique based on the interpretation of the induced magnetic field in the presence of a strongly localised applied magnetic field in the vicinity of flowing electrically conducting fluids, referred to as the magnetic distortion probe, has been introduced in Miralles et al (2011 Rev. Sci. Instrum. 82 095112). In this article, we present a numerical model, shown to accurately predict the magnetic distortion probe response measured in a dedicated experimental pipe flow benchmark. This numerical model allows one to precisely estimate the calibration of the magnetic distortion probe. This model is also used to investigate the spatial extent of the flow probed by the magnetic distortion probe. The optimal arrangement required to probe global flowrates in pipes is finally discussed based on the numerical model.