ifm has introduced the SMF beverage flowmeter, a multiparameter sensor designed for the food, beverage and wine industries, providing real-time monitoring of flow, temperature and conductivity from a single device.
According to the company, the SMF is intended to support process monitoring between manual checks by delivering continuous online data. Darryl Blackeby, regional sales manager (SA/WA) at ifm efector, said the device combines several measurements that would otherwise require multiple instruments.
“The SMF isn’t just a flowmeter,” Blackeby said. “It’s a complete monitoring solution, measuring flow, temperature, and conductivity all at once. That means fewer devices, less complexity, and a much clearer view of what’s happening in your process.”
ifm says continuous monitoring of flow, temperature and conductivity plays a role in maintaining wine flavour, aroma and stability by keeping key parameters within set ranges. The company says this can help reduce the risk of batch variability or spoilage.
“That’s the real value,” Blackeby said. “If you can see what’s happening at every stage, without having to rely only on manual checks, you’re in a much better position to deliver a consistent, high-quality product every time.”
In addition to flow, temperature and conductivity, the SMF Flowmeter measures total volume, flow direction and detects whether a pipe is empty. Data can be viewed on the device’s local display or integrated into digital systems, with options to log, store and download information for analysis or compliance.
According to ifm, the SMF does not replace traditional laboratory validation but is designed to work alongside it by providing continuous online data between manual checks.
“The real strength of the SMF Flowmeter is how it bridges the gap between hands-on lab analysis and what’s happening in the process right now,” Blackeby said. “You get instant feedback on flow, temperature, and conductivity, so you can make adjustments on the fly. Then, when you do your lab checks, you have a complete record to validate and fine-tune your process.”
The company says the SMF is positioned for both early-stage and more advanced automation users. For operations at an earlier stage, the local display provides real-time feedback to support manual interventions, while more automated sites can integrate the device into digital systems and use stored data for trend tracking and reporting.
ifm said the device is designed to integrate with wine transfer pumps and can be used during wine transfers, filtration and cleaning cycles. Installation is supported through an app-based menu, standard dimensions and a range of seals and adapters.
“This is a robust, hygienic solution, it’s fully welded stainless-steel housing resists contamination and cleaning agents, and it’s rated to withstand temperatures up to 150°C. With an IP69K rating and sanitary design, it meets the strictest hygiene standards in the industry,” Blackeby said.
