Introduction to mass flow meter types & their uses
Different types of flow meters are used for a plethora of measurements today, depending on the industry. While the main principle remains the same — they do measure the same thing more or less — the mass flow meter types can have some differences between them.
Let’s see exactly what a flow meter is, how does and it work, and of course, the types of flow meters in industry today!
What’s a flow meter?
To put it very simply, a flow meter measures the volume or the mass of a gas or liquid passing through a fixed point. In some cases, it can be out in the open, but in most cases, we’re measuring a gas or liquid passing through a specific point in a tube.
How does a flow meter work?
Different types of flow meters depend on different principles (like Coriolis) or methods to provide accurate readings. These readings and the way they are received vary depending on the material being measured, the conditions, and the required accuracy, however the need for precise measurements is of extreme importance in operational efficiency today.
Mass flow meter types
Let’s see the most well-known mass flow meter types used in industry nowadays.
Vortex
Vortexes in the downstream are created every time there are obstacles in the flow, generating low pressure zones. Strategically placed flow sensors can measure the strength of the flow created.
Coriolis
Coriolis flow meters are very accurate and can be used to measure a fluid’s density, through vibrating U-shaped tubes.
Ultrasonic
In this type of mass flow meter, the velocity and direction of the fluid flow modifies the frequency of a reflected signal. More specifically, if the fluid moves towards the flow sensor, the frequency increases, whereas when the fluid moves away from the sensor, the frequency of the signal decreases.
Thermal
Thermal meters make use of two heated sensors and calculate the mass flow based on the temperature difference between the two sensors. Readings may differ depending on liquid viscosity, heat capacity, pressure etc.
Turbine
In turbine flow meters, the fluid passes through a tube causing the vanes of a turbine to move. The rate of the spin measures the flow rate with excellent accuracy.
Differential
In this mass flow meter type, the flow is calculated by measuring the pressure drop caused by an obstruction in the flow, according to the Bernoulli Equation.
Positive Displacement
Positive displacement flow meters measure flow rate through the continuous filling and emptying of a chamber of known volume.
No matter the different types of flow meters or the industry where they are used, we must always make sure they are properly maintained, and remove any scaling or slime that can interfere with the readings.
We should never forget that the flow of liquids and gases requires constant and vigilant monitoring with precise and accurate measurements to avoid any accidents or contaminations because the types of flow meters used in industry play a very important role!
