Which Kinds of Flow Meters Suitable for Industrial Use?

Several distinct features in liquid flow meters differentiate them on the basis of their functionality and accuracy. To select the best flow meter for a particular use without overspending, consider the options below for volume-based meters.

Magnetic Meters

Magnetic flow meters come in two variants: namely, insertion and full-bore. Magnetic meters use coils to develop their magnetic field. When a conductive fluid passes through the field, it produces a voltage proportional to the flow, through an electrode in the wall of the meter or insertion probe. Magnetic meters function by calculating the electrical content of the liquid. This magnetic technology contains no moving parts, and the full-bore design secures the liquid flow from any intrusion. This is a relatively high-end liquid flow meter and is used in the petrochemical, chemical manufacturing, mining, pulp and paper manufacturing, water purification, and food and beverage industries. However, a magnetic level gauge must not be used with a low conductivity fluid such as de-ionized water.

Differential Pressure Flow Meters

Differential pressure flow meters gauge variations in pressure to identify the speed of flow. It features a flow-restrictive orifice, or laminar flow element, which measures the drop in pressure through the restriction. The points for a drop in the pressure from upstream to downstream are proportional to the rate of flow. At times when no moving parts are required or when a prompt response time is needed, a differential pressure flow meter is the best choice. It is usually found in industrial applications to calculate the output of fuels, in specialty chemical manufacturing, or plain water measurement testing. Differential pressure flow meters are also used in laboratories for calculation and control of the flow of gases while mixing them or separating them with the help of chromatography.

Coriolis Meters

Coriolis meters use two designs to provide true mass flow measurement; one is a single tube design, and the other uses two parallel tubes. They operate with an oscillation developed in the tube at a reference frequency based on Newton's Second Law of Motion and dependent on mass flow rate.

Among the most precise technologies, Coriolis meters are well suited for a broad and developing range of liquid and gas applications. It provides multiparameter data about temperature, density, and mass. Coriolis meters are commonly utilized in nuclear facilities, pharmaceutical manufacturing, wastewater treatment facilities, natural gas measurement and custody transfer.

Based on the above analysis, magnetic flow meters are normally considered to be the most suitable liquid flow meters for industrial operations. These meters can accurately measure any type of conductive liquid flow, whether dirty or clean. Most of the industries use chemicals or water in various forms. They require an accurately measured inflow and outflow. Therefore, it is always necessary to have a full pipe for the accurate measurement of the liquid.