If you are associated with an industrial unit, then you must know about flow measurement. It is a way to attain the flow rate of the fluids such as liquids, gases, and steams. It is an important process that plays a pivotal role in the manufacturing of goods. Though, the primary objective behind this is to ensure manufacturing quality. An accurate flow rate gives assurance that the use of a specific liquid or gas is appropriate in the manufacturing process. In order to derive the flow measurement results, the use of a flow meter is vital. It is a measuring tool that works to compute the flowing rate of media as per velocity, mass, and pressure change. However, choosing the right flow metering device is a crucial thing. If the flow measuring tool is inappropriate, it can deliver varying results that could decline the production quality. So, it is essential to choose one with proper caution.
Here are six important considerations that you must take into account while selecting the flow measurement device. It is also known as a flow indicator and flow sensor.
Identify Installation Needs
It is an important aspect that you must keep in mind to configure the best fluid measuring tool for your industry. There are several types of flow sensors available in the market. You can even view a large list of them online. But the thing is that some of them work accurately when installed vertically due to internal mechanisms. Some have a good measuring capacity or work efficiently when installed horizontally. So, it is necessary to conclude that how you want to install a flow indicator to let it compute the flow measurement. Another thing is the weather which plays an important role in the working of the flow meters. Some devices can work well due to adverse weather environments. But, some are only useful to install inside the premises as their outcomes can vary due to changing weather conditions. You can also see if the device has less wear and tear when installed outdoors to ensure an enduring working span.
Define Accuracy Range
Even if you are a layman, you must understand what it means. Well, the accuracy range of a flow sensing device is really important to derive expected flow measurement. Some flow meters have low accuracy, and they can be used where there is no need to detect precise measurements. But, if you want to attain precise measuring outcomes, then there is no exception to consider a low-accuracy flow sensor. Low accuracy can lead to poor quality when it comes to achieving the desired product quality. For instance, in the case of a chemical manufacturing unit, you cannot depend on low flow measurement. Similarly, when you need it for wastewater treatment, you need to rely on a flow indicator to work for accurate measurements.
It is also essential to consider the frequency of flow rate measurement. Whether you want to check it every hour or for each day? In such a case, you need to examine the accuracy range of the meter before purchasing it. The best thing in this regard is to find if there is any certification relating to the flow meter. A certified meter will certainly work as per your expectations to meet all requirements for accurate flow measurement.
Determine the type of Media to Measure
It is obviously the most important consideration while choosing the best flow indicator for your industrial application. The accurate results by a meter are highly dependent upon the type of media to be measured. You must keep a note of whether the fluid is clean or slurry that you want to measure. In addition, also check what the properties of the media are. You must check temperature ranges, pressure, velocity, viscosity, and conductivity. For example, if you want to measure conductive media, then it is vital to use an electromagnetic flow sensor. If you want to measure the volumetric rate of the media, then a vortex meter is a great option. If pressure range is your main priority, then a differential pressure meter is ideal to choose. If the media is clean water, then you can go for turbine meters.
Consider Pipe Size and Installation
It is also good to see that how the piping system is installed in your industrial facility. You should also consider the size of pipes that allow the fluid to flow inside. In the case of measuring the liquid, oversized pipes are not suitable. The flow measuring sensor might not provide you with accurate results or might deliver measurements later than the actual results. It is also important to consider that if you want an inline or insertion flow sensor. You can even install it with the pipe or can insert it inside the pipe. There are also meters available that you can connect to the pipes from the outside. Ultrasonic is the perfect example of such a meter that can work from outside of the pipe to measure flow rate.
Check Flow Obstructions
Installing a flow meter to the piping system can only deliver accurate results when there is less flow obstruction. If the piping system is straight, it can allow the meter to measure the flow rate with precision. But, if there are several bends and tees in the pipes, then it will cause the flow interruption significantly. Flow obstruction can severely cause the flow of liquids with a change in pressure and velocity. It can cause changes in the measurement when you have to check it consistently. So, it is vital that you have straight lines to let the liquids flow inside smoothly. Otherwise, it might hinder the working of the meters and can lower the quality of flow measurement.
Mechanical or Digital
The last consideration is the mechanical or digital working of flow meters. The mechanical meters come with a glass tube that tells the flow measurement. These meters usually come with internal moving parts that might not show accuracy. These meters are also difficult to maintain and require regular repairs and updations. On the other side, digital meters are embedded with modern features that tell the flow measurement through a digital screen. These meters have a longer span and require less maintenance than traditional ones. So, you can check and choose the meter as per your need and preference.
To Wind Up
These are six important measures to take before choosing a flow meter. It is crucial that the device you choose has proper sensing abilities and accurate results certification. You can get flow meters from a certified manufacturer.
