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Flow measurement devices are essential in measuring the flow of different fluids. Flow measurement devices are also known as flow meters or sensors. In some applications, their ability to give accurate measurements is essential because it can make a change in profits or losses. Ensure to select an accurate meter because if there are inaccurate measurements, they may cause a severe outcome.
Flow measurement devices determine the flow of fluids using their speed. They also do so using their change in kinetic energy. The speed of these fluids depends on the pressure that is forcing the liquids over the tube. Positive displacement flow meters help to make direct measurements. They help to separate fluids in specific increments and move them on.
Flow Measurement Devices
Flow measuring instruments come in different types. Each flow meter has its working principle. Always make sure to use flow measurement devices for their application. This will help you to get the best accurate measurements. The following are some of the most popular flow meter types.
Differential Pressure Flow Meters
These meters are the most common ones in the market today. Over 50 percent of all liquid flow measurements use differential flow meters in their applications. Their working principle is that the pressure drops over the meters are related to the square of the flow rate. These also have primary and secondary elements. The main element causes kinetic energy, while the second one determines differential pressure that gives the signal.
Orifice Meters
These are one of the most loved flow measurement devices in the market today. An orifice is usually a flat metal that has a particular hole in it. Orifice plates are most of the concentric type. You can also find the ones that are eccentric, conical, and segmental. You will have to install this meter between two flanges.
The orifice plate acts as a primary device and constricts the flow of liquids to create a differential pressure. If you want to detect the change, you will use pressure taps on either side. The best thing about these meters is that they do not have moving parts. Their cost also does not add to the increase in the size of the pipe.
The new types of orifice meters are conical and quadrant. These meters were mainly made to measure fluids that have low Reynolds numbers. You can use these meters to measure the flow of liquids that have solids in them. Make sure to install these meters well. This is because it determines their accuracy.
Venturi Tubes
Venturi meters can measure the flow of liquids that have large volumes with low-pressure drops. A venturi tube is a piece of tube that has a tapered gate and a straight throat. When the fluids enter the throat, its speed will increase. This will then create a differential pressure between the inlet and outlet regions. These flow sensors do not have moving parts. Therefore, they will not wear or tear. You can also install venturi tubes using flanged end fittings.
Variable Area Flow Meters
These flow meters are also called rotameters and are among the most popular meters in the flow industry. Variable area flow sensors are easy to install and maintain.
Turbine Flow Sensors
Turbine flow sensors are widely used. This is because they measure accurate flow measurements. The meters have a multi-bladed rotor that is fixed with the pipe. This pipe is related to the flow. The speed at which this meter is directly related to the flow rate. These meters have moving parts, and that is a big concern because they can wear.
Vortex Flow Meters
Vortex meters use a natural phenomenon that arises when a liquid flows over a bluff object. The speed of the vortex shedding is directly related to the energy fluid that flows over the meter. You can use these flow meters to measure dirty fluids. They can also measure thick fluids.
Electromagnetic Meters
Magnetic meters measure liquids and slurries. They are among the most popular meters due to their high accuracy. These meters work using Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction. This means that the energy will be induced when the liquid moves over a magnetic field. The liquid, in this case, will be the conductor.
The amount of energy that is going to be created is directly related to the flow rate. Two electrodes are usually fixed in the walls of the pipe to sense the voltage. These meters have primary benefits. They are used to measure complex and corrosive fluids. They do not have moving parts, and this makes their maintenance easy.
Coriolis Flow Meters
Coriolis meters are popular in the market today. This is because they have high accuracy. These meters also measure actual masses of fluids. You can find these meters in various designs. They have high accuracy, but they can create high-pressure drops.
Conclusion
Flow measurement devices come in different varieties. It is good to use these meters in their applications permanently. Also, make sure to install them well. This is because the wrong installation will provide an inaccurate outcome.
