Vortex Flow Meters Information on GlobalSpec

Vortex flow meters are flow sensors that detect the frequency of vortices shed by a bluff body placed in a flow stream. The frequency of the vortices is proportional to the flow velocity. Vortex flow meters are used to measure the flow of liquids and/or gases. Some devices can accommodate mixed-phase materials such as steam. Others can measure liquids with suspended solids (slurries). Operating pressure range and media temperature range are important media specifications to consider. Operating pressure range is the maximum head pressure of the process media that devices can withstand. Maximum temperature range is the maximum temperature of the media that can be monitored. Additional parameters include velocity flow rate, which is usually measured in distance/time. Vortex flow meters that can also measure temperature, density or media levels are commonly available.

Pipe size and mounting style are important consideration when selecting vortex flow meters. Many products are calibrated in terms of pipe diameter, a measurement that is expressed in English units such as inches (in) or metric units such as centimeters (cm). There are several mounting styles for vortex flow meters. Insertion-type devices are inserted perpendicular to the flow path. They usually require a threaded hole in the process pipe, or another means of access. In-line flanged devices are inserted parallel to the flow path, typically between two pieces of flanged process piping. In-line threaded products are inserted parallel to the flow path and threaded into two existing process pipes. National pipe thread (NPT) is the most common thread type. In-line clamp vortex flow meters are also available. These devices are inserted parallel to the flow path and clamped between two existing process pipes.

Vortex flow meters differ in terms of outputs and interfaces. Flow rate information can be output as an analog voltage signal, an analog current signal, a frequency or pulse, or a switch. Analog voltage signals such as 0 – 10 mV are a simple, usually linear function of the measurement. They are continuous, rather than pulsed or discrete. Analog current signals such as 4 – 20 mA use feedback to provide the appropriate current regardless of line noise and impedance. These devices, which are often called transmitters, are useful when sending signals over long distances. Flow rate information can also be output as an encoded signal via amplitude modulation (AM) or frequency modulation. Vortex flow meters with switch outputs use media flow to trigger a switch based on preset flow rates. Both serial and parallel computer interfaces are commonly available. Serial interfaces include RS232, RS422, and RS485. Parallel interfaces use the general-purpose interface bus (GPIB), a Centronics port, or a printer port.

Vortex flow meters provide a variety of features. Multi-insertion devices determine the flow rate by taking flow rate measurements across several points in the flow path. Programmable flow meters typically include a built-in microprocessor and can be adjusted electronically for different materials, ranges, and outputs. Devices with recorder or totalizer functions can plot or chart flow history for a given unit of time. Some vortex flow meters include built in audible or visual alarms and not just alarm contacts. Others provide controller functions. Products that are rated for sanitary applications are suitable for medical or food processing applications.

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Products & Services Related to Vortex Flow Meters

Flow Meters

Flow meters (flowmeters) and flow sensors are devices used for measuring the flow rate or quantity of a moving fluid or gas.

Gas Flow Meters

Gas flow meters are used for measuring the flow or quantity of a moving gas in an enclosed pipe or passage.

Gas Flow Switches, Volumetric

Volumetric gas flow switches are devices with a switch output used for measuring the flow or quantity of a moving gas in terms of a unit of volume per unit time, such as cubic feet per minute.

Liquid Flow Meters

Liquid flow meters are used for measuring the flow or quantity of a moving fluid.

Mass Flow Meters and Controllers

A mass flow meter is a device that consist of a mass flow sensor or transducer and signal processing electronics. Fluid (liquid or gas) flow is measured in mass rate units (lbs/min).

Mass Flow Switches

Mass liquid flow switches and mass gas flow switches are devices used for measuring the flow or quantity of a moving liquid or gas in terms of a unit of mass per unit time, such as pounds per minute. These devices may be sensors with electrical output or may be stand-alone instruments with local displays and controls.

Ultrasonic Flow Meters

Ultrasonic flow meters use sound frequencies to determine flow rates. They do not work well with liquids with suspended solids or air gaps.

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