If you are looking for a flow indicator or flow gauge, it is important that you get the right equipment for your application. Even though all flow meters will serve a similar purpose of accurately controlling and monitoring flow, there are countless variations of this device on the market. For you to find the right device, consider these important factors.
Assess your company needs
Different flow meters in the market today are suitable for different functions. Every company will have its own unique needs. Some firms may be interested in knowing the actual volume of whatever goes through their piping, while others may want to calculate the speed of the flow. This is why it is important to find a flow meter that will suit your exact business needs.
Type of fluid
Different flow meters are intended to measure fluids of varying viscosity. Viscosity is basically a measure of the friction that is generated by the fluid as it flows through the piping. Water tends to have a low viscosity, while oil has a high viscosity. Therefore, if you want to measure the flow rates of both oil and water, you will have to use different types of flow meters.
Choose the widest turndown
Turndown is simply the ratio of the maximum and the minimum flow rates that a flow meter can measure within a specified accuracy range. The turndown is important because it is nearly impossible to determine the exact range of the flows that need to be measured in advance. With flow meters by industrythat has the widest possible turndown, you will be confident that they can easily cover all anticipated flow variations.
Installation
When buying a flow meter, it is important for you to determine how and where the instrument will be installed. This is important because the installation process can affect both efficiency and accuracy. Obstructions in your pipeline, for example, valves, bends, or joints that are close to the flow meter, can result in distortion in the flow and this will affect repeatability and accuracy. For best results, industrial flow meters should be installed in pipe locations with a straight length of unhindered pipeline both downstream and upstream.
Budget
Flow gauges come in a wide range of prices depending on your current flow measurement needs. When buying a flow meter, you should determine the value that it will provide for months or even years after purchasing it. A durable and well-made flow meter will need less maintenance service over its lifetime and this will reduce your overall costs. On the other hand, a lower end flow meter will need regular replacements and maintenance and this will increase your costs over time.
The huge array of flow technology choices on offer makes it a challenge to choose the right flow meter for industrial application. There is a wide range of factors that you need to put in mind before you choose the right device. You should purchase meters that are modular, have an upgrade path, and allow addition or replacement of components when your budget allows or technologies change. It is best that you avoid a flow meter that will limit your options because you will have to purchase another one when technology changes.
