Flow meter is the most common flow measurement instrument. It is a device that aids in measuring the flow rate of a fluid. It is used for the measurement of linear, nonlinear, volumetric and mass flow rate of a liquid or gas.

Referred also as Flow Gauges, this flow instrument delivers accurate flow rate which is an essential need for the better control over quality of industrial processes. In fact, in the majority of industrial processes, flow is the third most magnitude that is measured.

Typically, flow of any liquid is measured in two ways – one on volumetric basis and the other on weight basis. Keep reading till the end to learn more about the flow meter.

The Purpose of Flow Meter Usage

The primary purpose of using this device is to enhance precision, accuracy and resolution of fluid measurement. Industries make a point to invest on the usage of these instruments as these enable to improve efficiency, have lowered maintenance, are versatile and easy-to-use along with being durable.

Flow meters are capable of measuring volume of a material along with its speed and mass. Based on varied calculations, they report absolute pressure, mass flow, differential pressure, temperature as well as viscosity.

Different Applications of the Flow Meter

The type of flow is a major deciding factor for the use of a flow meter. The type of flow can be either closed conduit or open channel. Closed conduit is when the flow is in a pipe or tube whereas open channel is when the fluid flow is out in the open atmosphere.

A lot of factors are needed to be evaluated for the determination of an effective flow meter. Factors such as remote monitoring, types of measurement data, frequency of recording measurements, etc. Below are some applications that are enumerated for a flow meter.

Fluid Characteristics and its Flow

The flow meter is applied for measuring a list of things such as pressure, temperature, viscosity, density and vapor pressure. All of which are displayed in a single reading. A primary function of this device is to monitor safety conditions like presence of abrasives, toxicity, bubbles, overall quality of fluid transmission and more.

Ranges of Temperature

When it comes to flow meters, the temperature here is referred to the thermal flow and the device carrying out thermal flow measurement. It measures the heat transfer. A temperature sensor within the device gives measurement of the liquid’s temperature. Therefore, flow meters can also be used for temperature measurement application.

Ranges of Pressure

Any mass requires a certain force to move. In case of fluids, the force that is applied for its movement is what we know as pressure. Now, for determining the amount of required pressure, the density of the fluid needs to be measured. This ultimately indicates the flow rate. The use of a flow meter helps in measuring the density as well as pressure of the fluid, which ultimately helps in calculating the flow rate.

Now that you are aware of the basics of the flow meter, it is time for you to select the ideal flow instrument for your industrial process. Check out Dutco Tennant’s range of supplied flow meters and pick the ideal solution now.