Flow measurement has to do with the motion of liquids or gases through a pipe or a path. Flow measurement usually comes in two forms, and these are volume and mass. The instruments used in measuring mass or volume include mechanical flowmeters, differential flow meters, pressure-based meters, and many more. You can as well combine one or more instruments as parts of flow measurement. Flowmeters are applicable in oil and gas, power, pulp and paper, boiler control, chemical, food production, and water treatment industries. Here are some of the best flow measurement devices.
Coriolis Flow Meters
These meters are among the best in the flow industry. They measure the mass, volume, and density of fluids continuously flowing through the tube or pipe. Coriolis flowmeters measure vicious, aggressive, and shear-sensitive fluids because they are mechanical meters, and therefore, they are not subject to wear or tear. These meters also have high accuracy, and they come in different designs, including advanced processes. They also measure high-capacity bulk measurements.
Differential Pressure Flow Meters
These meters measure the flow of fluids through a pipe. They introduce a trigger that leads to pressure drops like the orifice plate or venturi meters. The meter also works with various fluids and gases but is mostly not recommended for liquids with high thickness. Differential flowmeters also come in different varieties. Therefore, go for the best ones for better accuracy.
Electromagnetic Flow Meters
These meters are also called magnetic and are among the best flow measurement devices. Magnetic meters operate using Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction. They measure liquids that conduct electricity through the tube. They are not usually affected by the pressure, temperature, or viscosity of the drinks. Also, you can use this meter with other liquids because they are compatible.
Flow Indicators
Flow indicators are devices used to show and measure the flow of fluids through the tube. You can see these fluids. The device works with liquids, chemicals, oils, and also gases. These indicators also come in different models and designs, and you can get one for your application.
Orifice Plate
This is another perfect meter that you can use to measure the flow of liquids over a flow channel. It has a flat plate that has a circular orifice given concentrically with the tube between the flow. Orifice plate meters work the same as venturi meters. When the fluids pass over this meter, the moving fluids converge over a stationary liquid and spread after a while. Usually, this meter has a diameter that is half of the pipe.
These pressure gauges are generally fixed on one side of this lovely meter. Orifice place is the cheapest of all meters, and you can make it at the workshop. The device is also easy to install and maintain. However, if you compare it to the venturi meter, it has a low accuracy level. The meter also has some moving parts, so make sure you do not use it on corrosive fluids because it wears out.
Venturi Meter
Venturi meters measure large amounts of fluids with low-pressure drops. They are also used to determine the flow of fluids in a straight pipe or channel. The meter works so that the fluids get accelerated over the converging cone, and the differential pressure between the two is determined to give the signal for the flow rate. If you compare the pressure recovery of this meter and that of the orifice place, you will find that the one for the venturi meter is better.
Vortex Flowmeter
This flow measurement device is also referred to as an oscillatory flow meter. It operates using the natural phenomena when the fluids flow over a bluff object. The speed of this meter is related directly to the energy of the liquid that hovers over this meter. It is mainly used to measure the steam.
Turbine Flow Meter
A turbine flow meter is also among the best meters in the market. It is popular due to its high accuracy levels. During the installation process, you will have to mount a rotor with several blades with a tube related to the flow of fluids. The turbine meter works so that when the fluids pass the line, it meets with the vanes, and this turbine, in turn, begins to rotate. You will then have to calculate the number of spins to determine the flow. The speed at which this rotates is directly proportional to the flow rate, and you will sense it using a photoelectric cell.
Final Thought
Flow meters help to measure the flow of fluids. Flow measurement is critical because, in some industries, it determines profits or losses. Therefore, ensure that you select a meter that gives the best accuracy and install it properly.