Flowmeters: What Type Will Work Best for Your Application?

What Flowmeter Will Work Best for Your Application?

From single-use to magnetic to variable-area to Coriolis, the options in flowmeters are plentiful. Yet there are distinct differences in functionality, accuracy, and certainly price. Ultrasonic sensors that accurately and non-invasively measure through commonly used tubing is an excellent multi-use option that is positioned on the higher end of the price scale. If low unit price is desirable without sacrificing accuracy, then single-use turbine type sensors are a good option particularly if working fluid is low viscosity. If higher viscosity working fluids are involved, the single-use flow through disposable ultrasonic sensors are the best fit.

When selecting a flow meter consideration must be given to:

• Flow measurement type - momentum (velocity), volumetric or mass flow measurement
• Media conditions - pressure and temperature of media and whether media conditions are likely to remain constant or vary
• Flow range - required flow range of media (min and max readings required)
• Accuracy - required accuracy of the readings
• Environmental considerations - special installation considerations such as hygienic installation, installing in to an ATEX zone or requiring tamper proof readings

Here is an overview for some of the flowmeter options available to you: