Flow meters, also known as the flowmeter, flow indicator, flow gauge, etc. depending on the industry, are devices meant to measure the flow of a liquid or gas passing through a certain area. They can be open channels of liquid such as streams or rivers, but more commonly, they are used in businesses wherein they have to measure the liquids or gasses passing through a pipe. Flow meters are designed to increase the accuracy of measurement and also serves as a highly precise tool for many business purposes.
When choosing your flow meter
Think you might need to start searching for a flow meter supplier? If you’re in the research, manufacturing, or production arm of the business or industry, you’ve likely benefited from the use of flow meters in your line of work. They provide the most accurate measurements for flows of liquids and gasses and are a vital tool in many industrial applications that eliminates human error.
When you choose a flow meter, remember that not all meters measure data the same way. Some measurements are for the volume of a liquid or gas, whilst others measure the mass. Some types of flow meters are also more precise or accurate than other types. Choosing your flow meter wisely is important if you want to have the right one for its business application.
There are many determining factors of what type of flow meter is right for the application. Check first the accuracy requirements, fluid characteristics, whether it is suitable for gas or liquid, the minimum or maximum threshold of flow rates, and other significant characteristics.
When installing your flow meter
Need to install your new flow meter for your business? Learn more about installing your new flow meter with these helpful tips.
- Install a gas or steam flow meter at an elevated spot. Condensation can ruin the efficiency of your flow meter in measuring. You can avoid this from happening by placing the flow meter at a higher level, where condensate of excess liquid still has a chance to drain away from the pipe.
- Installation location must be at a place where the pipeline is always full or consistently filled with the measured liquid or gas. This would ensure that you always have an accurate or precise measurement of the flow of your liquids and gases with minimal error.
- Prevent bubbles from forming in the pipeline when installing your flow meter. In liquid pipelines, there may be a tendency for gas or bubbles to form in the pipe, namely when changes in the pipeline occurs (such as pressure valves, gaps, etc.). It is important to avoid this from happening by installing pipes in such a way that this does not occur.
When in doubt, consult your flow meter supplier for some assistance in installing your flow meter. Remember to check out the installation guidelines and procedures before proceeding.
The care and maintenance of your flow meter
Of course, installation is only the first step in ensuring that your flow meter is kept functioning effectively for as long as possible. It is also important to know how to clean and care for your flow meter. Check out these tips on how to clean, care for, and maintain your flow meters.
- Do not discontinue the use of your flow meter for extended periods of time and properly clean it out when not in use. Storing your flow meter after use is alright, but if you do not use it for extended periods of time, you encourage the growth of bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms within your flow meter. If you must keep it away for a week or more, remember to wash it out with alcohol to kill off the remaining growth.
- Check if your flow meter needs an emergency cleaning. You might think that everything looks alright at the outset, but if you’re getting unusual readings on your flow meter, it may be a sign that you might need to clean your flow meter out. Before trying anything like disassembling your meter, though, check whether it has a warranty.
- Carefully read the care guidelines of your flow meter. Each flow meter is different, but most flow meters can be cleaned via a cloth or soft tissue. For pipes and other hard to reach places, use a cleaning brush that’s perfect for use on tubes and piping. Check whether you have to use warm or cold water for the cleaning.
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