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Steps to select the right flow meter for your application

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Naman Modi
Steps to select the right flow meter for your application

You can't underestimate the role of a flow meter today. Whether it's in an office, home or industry, you need a suitable flow meter to monitor the flow rate of gas, Liquids, and even steam. The excess flow rate or flow rate that goes below the required limits can result in losses. That's why you're supposed to get a flow meter that suits your application well.

You'll find many types of flow meters in the market. But how do you tell the appropriate device that will give accurate flow rate results? Get on board with the procedure below, and you will arrive at a flow meter choice that meets your specific flow metering needs.

How to select the best flow meter for your application 

1. Understand the type of fluid to be monitored

Getting the right flow meter begins with knowing well the process media fluid. Are you looking for a flow meter device to measure gas, steam, or liquid? Understanding that will inform the type of flow meter that will give accurate results for every medium.

The flow meter type you can use to monitor drinking water flow won't be suitable for wastewater treatment. Not all flow meter technologies will be ideal for measuring viscous fluids, high density, slurry laden and dirty fluids. Does the fluid you seek to measure flow rate contain bubbles? Or what's the conductivity of such fluids? You'll have to consider all that when buying a flow meter. 

A flow meter device you can use to measure corrosive fluids or chemicals' flow rate is different from the one you can apply on neutral liquids.so, you'll need sociality material to protect your flow meter from damage if you are dealing with caustic and corrosive fluids. 

2. Consider the flow meter's minimum and maximum operating temperature and pressure

Having enough knowledge of the liquid to be monitored isn't enough. Flow meters operate at a certain minimum and maximum temperatures and pressure. That's why it's essential to understand the pressure and temperature of the fluid to be measured before buying a flow meter. Various flow meter technologies can be affected by the change of fluid temperature and pressure.

Maybe, you need the best flow meter, but the sensing accuracy of that device can easily be influenced by temperature. In such a situation, you should look for a flow meter that has inbuilt temperature compensations. Alternatively, you can add a temperature sensor to get signals whenever there is a change in fluid temperature that may affect your flow meter's accuracy. 

Some flow meter types depend on moving parts to help gauge the flow rate. Such flow meters may not withstand the high-pressure operation. However, you can get a flow meter that isn't affected by a change in pressure in the flowing fluid. 

3. Flow range of the fluid will help get the correct flow meter

Before a final decision on a flow meter to buy, you should consider your fluid's pipeline diameter and flow range. Do you want to monitor fluid with continuous or variable flow rates? Not all flow meter types respond well to a sudden increase or increase in flow rate. That's why it's vital to take into account the flow range when buying a flow meter.

4. Examine the accuracy of a flow meter

The purpose of incurring costs to have a flow meter is to get accurate flow rate results. When monitoring some fluids, you need a high degree of precise results. But not all types of flow meters can guarantee the level of accuracy you seek. So, get a flow meter device that can do a perfect job where the most accurate flow rate data is of great essence.

5. Consider installation requirements of the flow meter

Different flow meters have additional installation requirements for them to offer accurate performance. Some require a specified diameter, while others need straight piping. Others will perform better when installed away from pumps, valves, and other equipment. So, get precise installation requirements before buying your flow meter.

6. Keep in mind the cost of the flow meter

When buying a flow meter, the cost is another aspect you need to consider. Not only the amount you will pay for the device but also installation and maintenance costs. Some flow meters are popular and pricey. However, they may not be suitable for your specific application. Look for an affordable flow meter that can guarantee accurate flow rate results.

7. Understand the physical properties of the flow metering system

It's vital to know the site's physical dynamics where you intend to use the flow meter. Consider the length of your pipes at both inlet and outlet of the device. You should also check pipe configuration before and after the flow meter. What is the size of the lines to be used? You will find flow meters that perform poorly when pipes are undersized. Apart from those factors, it's crucial to look at the material used to make the pipe since they can help get a suitable flow meter based on application. 

Conclusion

To get the best flow meter device isn't about going to the supplier and considering the cost. You need to consider many factors before settling for a specific flow meter. Understand the fluid to be monitored, installation requirements, and degree of accuracy required. Also, consider the properties of your fluid that may affect the performance of your flow meter. 

 

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