Important Factors to Consider Before Buying a Chemical Flow Meter

Selecting the right flow meter is an important part of chemical processing. It will let you know whether your processing equipment works properly or there is a problem. With the correct Chemical Flow Meter, you can measure flow accurately and detect whether there is any leak in the pipelines. Moreover, these meters will let you know how much fluid you are using currently. In a word; with the right meter, you can manage a precise process control. If you fail to install a correct one for chemical processing, you cannot measure the flow accurately. This may cause the wasting of materials which will lead to financial losse flow meters for liquids

So, it can be said that installing the right chemical flow meter has a significant impact both on your industry operation as well as your business performance.

If you have little or no knowledge, you can not select the right flow meter for your operation. That's why; we have written this article to let you know how to select the right one for your operation. We have included all basic things that you have to consider before buying a flow meter.

Important Factors to consider

In order to select the right flow meter, you need to consider fluid characteristics, flow range, and flow profile. The fluid characteristics include a number of phases, turbidity, viscosity, etc. Also, you need to consider the output-connectivity options and mechanical restriction. Check below to know which key factors you need to consider.

Process Media:

Different meters are suitable for different kind of operations. So, check the type of liquid. Check whether it is liquid or gas. Try to understand the limitation of each type of meters. It is important.

Measurement Type:

What type of measurement do you need? Mass or Volumetric flow measurement, you can convert volumetric readings into mass measurements, but some volumetric measuring devices such as turbine and variable-area device cannot distinguish density-altering pressure or temperature changes. You may need some additional sensor for mass flow measurement.

Flow Rate Information:

It is an important factor that you need to consider when you need to collect continuous flow rate data. In a typical measurement system, you need to check primary flow device, flow recorder, transmitter, flow sensor and totalize.

Desired Accuracy:

Flow meter accuracy is another key factor to consider. The accuracy is differentiated in actual reading percentage or calibrated span. Generally, it is stated at maximum, normal and minimum flow rates. If you want to buy the right device for chemical process, you must understand these requirements.

Application Environment:

Depending on a plant's variation, you may have to decide whether you need high or low flow range. Also, the temperature and the pressure conditions are important parameters. Regarding the high-viscosity fluids, you may have to consider the pressure drop in meters.

Fluid Characteristics:

You should keep in mind that your meter is compatible with operating conditions as well as fluid characteristics. Many plants deal with corrosive or abrasive fluids. Coarse and thick materials may hinder accuracy by clogging or damaging internal components of a meter. So, considering the fluid characteristics is essential to consider before buying a chemical flow meter.

Cost and Capabilities:

A chemical flow meter may cost much if you need higher accuracies and capabilities. So, you must think about what actually you need. Research about the process conditions including temperature, pressure, operating ranges, and flow rates. Also, determine whether you will sacrifice features for cost, of spending money for additional capabilities.