How to Choose the Right Flow Meter for Your Application

A flow meter measures fluid and provides information about its volumetric or mass flow. There are various flow meter technologies, such as differential pressure, vortex, magnetic, ultrasonic, turbine and positive displacement meters.The accuracy of a flow meter depends on the type of liquid being measured and how it flows. A meter that provides accurate readings will be designed to operate in the correct environment. It will also have the right sensor technology for the liquid being measured.

Choosing the right flow meter for your application is essential to ensuring your process runs smoothly. In the oil and gas industry, for example, accurate flow measurements are necessary to ensure energy supply.The first step in selecting a flow meter is to determine whether you need continuous or totalized data and whether it needs to be relayed locally or remotely. Afterwards, the piping system that will accommodate the meter should be evaluated.

Moreover, users should know how the meter’s accuracy is stated and which factors influence the way it is rated. These include accuracy in percent of full scale, repeatability, and resolution.Flowmeters that measure mass flow use heat to change the properties of the fluid and then calculate the flow rate. Thermal dispersion flow meters and Coriolis flow meters are popular examples.