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Field troubleshooting3 min readContent language: EnglishUpdated 23 October 2026

Why is flow displayed when the process appears stopped?

Check the actual no-flow condition, filling, stability, display variable and status before treating zero calibration as the solution.

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Identify what the display represents

Record model, alarms, units, displayed variable and the reading over time. Instantaneous flow, a totaliser and a control-system calculation are different values. A totaliser retaining its historical value does not mean flow continues. Record positive or negative readings and timing rather than sending only one screenshot.

A closed valve is not proof of zero flow

Use existing operating records and process information to review bypasses, recirculation and possible valve leakage. Do not operate valves independently for this check. For liquid service, site personnel must also establish whether the tube is full, gas or phase changes are present, and temperature and pressure are stable.

Look for process and configuration clues

Observe whether the symptom coincides with pump operation, nearby vibration or process changes. Review direction, units, damping and low-flow cutoff through existing screens or configuration records. A cutoff may affect small displayed values; it does not establish that the underlying cause has been removed.

  • Record flow, density, temperature and alarms during the apparent no-flow period.
  • Keep existing configuration and recent change records for comparison.

When to involve an engineer

Refer persistent offset, alarms or uncertain no-flow/filling conditions to an engineer, who can determine whether zero verification or calibration is appropriate under the model's manual. This page is for observation and document checks, not field zeroing instructions. Opening covers, wiring, pipe removal, pressurised work and hazardous-area tasks require site procedures.

Apply this knowledge to product selection

Customers and procurement

Check actual application and acceptance requirements against the article and product documentation. Bring open questions to DOWESTON for technical review.

Sales and technical teams

Record customer questions with application conditions. Verify range, interfaces and operating requirements against the selected model documentation.

Turn questions into application requirements

Collect application, connection, installation and acceptance requirements for the selected product, then review open points with DOWESTON.

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