Flow sensors are flow measurement devices designed to measure the gas or liquid movement passing through a pipe, conduit, or other channels. These devices act as fluid detectives and are equipped with a transducer and a transmitter. The integrated transmitter generates, and outputs signals from the transducer, which senses the fluid passing through the primary device using mechanical and electrical subsystems. The outputs are then processed to provide real-time accurate data necessary for monitoring, controlling, and optimising various processes in multiple applications.
Alternative Names for Flow Sensors
Flow sensors can be alternatively known as liquid meters, flow transducers, flow meters, flow gauges, flow indicators, and flow rate sensors.
Why Buy Flow Sensors? Uncovering Their Potential Advantages
Flow sensors are crucial fluid rate sensing devices offering numerous benefits. With these devices, you can control, monitor, and optimise various processes with robust accuracy and efficiency. Liquid flow meter sensors help detect potential issues, maintain balance, prevent costly downtime, and facilitate informed decision-making for improved productivity and resource management.
Selection Criteria for Choosing Appropriate Flow Sensor
It is important to consider some basic parameters when selecting a suitable flow sensor for your application, such as:
- Flow Rate Range
- Media Operating Conditions
- Display Type/Signal Output
- Accuracy & Precision
- Fluid Compatibility
- Physical Size and Mounting
- Durability and Reliability
- Materials
- Output Signal
- Installation and Maintenance
- Cost and Brand.
Popular Types and Functions of Flow Sensors
Flow sensors are classified into various types, each designed for specific applications; no one size fits all flowmeters. Some of the popular flow sensor types include:
- Magnetic-Inductive Sensors – These sensors can detect three categories of the process: consumed quantity, medium temperature, and volumetric flow quantity.
- Paddlewheel Flow Turbines/Sensors – These compact sensors are the most used types with high performance and large-capacity liquid speed measurement. The sensors connect to a pipe with a paddle wheel that calculates the speed by turning the paddle.
- Variable Area Flow Sensors/ Rota Flow Meters – These flowmeters are known for their float designs and tapered tubes and are ideal for gas and liquid flow measurement. They offer minimal cost, a linear output, a low-pressure drop, and simple designs.
Other Popular Types Include
- Thermal Flow Sensors
- Differential Pressure Flow Sensor
- Orifice Flow Meters
- Turbine Flow Sensors
- Pitot Tube Flow Meter
- Ultrasonic Flow Meters
- Velocity Flow Sensors.
Typical Applications of Flow Sensors
Flow sensors are widely employed in various equipment, industrial applications, and systems, including:
- Chemical Factories
- Industrial Process Control
- Medical Equipment
- Automotive Industry
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Irrigation
- Oil & Gas Industry
- Food & Beverage Industry
- HVAC Systems
- Septic Systems
- Water Treatment
- Industrial Washing Systems.
