The Most Common Types of Water Flow Meters

The functioning principles, benefits, and expenses of each type of water flow meter are different. The amount of water flowing through a pipe is measured with a water flow meter. Depending on the application, maintenance needs, and budget, there are many functioning principles to choose from.

Turbine (also known as a mechanic), vortex, ultrasonic, and electromagnetic are the four most prevalent water flow meter types. This post will explain all you need to know about them and assist you in selecting the best one for your needs.

Turbine water flow meter

A turbine flow meter, the most common and inexpensive technique to measure water flow, monitors the speed of water flowing through a pipe using a rotating turbine or piston, commonly in the form of a propeller, shunt, or paddle wheel. The speed of the rotating blades determines the volumetric flow rate of the water. Unfortunately, these meters can clog in unclean or chunky water, such as process water, increasing maintenance expenses, hence we propose electromagnetic process flow meters for those applications. They also don’t operate well in low-flow situations.

Vortex water flow meter

Ultrasound is used to measure flow in ultrasonic water flow meters. One signal is sent downstream and the other is sent upstream via a transit-time ultrasonic meter. The meter then calculates the flow velocity by comparing the transit times of both signals. Finally, the volumetric flow rate is determined using this calculation. The disparities between the hot and cold legs can also be used to evaluate energy and temperature. Clamp-on ultrasonic meters deliver signals through the pipe walls to measure water from outside the pipe. They are ideal for measuring flow in large pipes and a variety of other processes because of this property.

Electromagnetic water flow meter

Because magnetic water flow meters aren’t very accurate, they can’t be used to transfer custody. They can’t measure ions in pure water, hence they can only be considered water flow meters with a qualification. Depending on the brand, there may be a bewildering array of liners to pick from. Chemical compatibility, flow velocity, and potential abrasion is all factors to consider in your application. As a result, this information will play a role in determining the optimal liner for your application. Because you don’t require a particular liner material for water, it’s a straightforward flow application. You can use a simple liner like hard rubber or polyurethane for pure water, but you’ll need something extra if you’re dealing with corrosive chemicals or process water.

Keep in mind that the equipment you use is dictated by the process water. Some chemicals can harm your flow meter, reducing its lifespan. You’ll need a Teflon liner to prevent corrosion if your process water contains chemicals. Otherwise, polyurethane or hard rubber liners will suffice.