Abstract: The mass flow rate of bulk solids in a pneumatic transport system is measured in real time. At least two pressure gauges (P1, P2) are provided in a pipe section of the transport system. The pressure drop ?P between the pressure gauges is determined during a gas-solids flow of air and bulk solids through the pipe section. The suspension density ?sus of the flowing mixture of air and bulk solids is calculated. The bulk solids mass flow rate Ms at a given location along a given length of a pipeline is estimated based at least on the suspension density ?sus of the flowing mixture.

Abstract: Method for real time measurement of mass flow rate of bulk solids, in where said bulk solids are loaded, or unloaded, by a pneumatic transport system, comprising the following steps: arranging at least two pressure gauges in a pipe section of the transport system, as measuring devices; measuring pressure drop ?P between said pressure gauges as the gas-solids flow of air and bulk solids takes place; calculating suspension density ?sus of the flowing mixture of air and bulk solids; and wherein the bulk solids mass flow rate Ms at a given location over a given length of a pipeline is estimated, by at least said suspension density ?sus of the flowing mixture.