Liquid Flow Meters: Choosing the Right Technology for Your Fluid
Selecting the right liquid flow meter depends heavily on the fluid being measured — viscosity, chemical compatibility, and required accuracy all play a role in narrowing down the right technology. This guide focuses on liquid measurement specifically, including oils, fuels and other industrial fluids.
Best Flow Meter Technologies for Liquids
- Positive displacement meters — high accuracy for viscous liquids like oils and fuels
- Magnetic flow meters — ideal for conductive liquids such as water and chemicals
- Ultrasonic flow meters — non-invasive option for a wide range of liquids
- Oval gear meters — mechanical accuracy for viscous, non-conductive fluids
Why Positive Displacement for Viscous Liquids
Positive displacement flow meters physically trap and release known volumes of liquid as it passes through, making them highly accurate for viscous fluids like oils and fuels where other technologies can struggle. The Flomec OM Series is a popular choice across Australian industrial and fuel-handling applications.
Matching OM Series Meters to High Viscosity Fluids
Fluid conductivity, viscosity, temperature, and chemical compatibility with wetted materials all factor into the final decision. For a broader look at oval gear technology within the Flomec range, see our guide to oval gear flow meters. The chart above is used to determine the suitability of the OM series Oval Gear meter when fitted with standard or special cut rotors. It indicates the maximum flow rate that can be achieved when measuring clean liquids at varying viscosities matched against pressure drop. Please consult with BES Flowmeters to confirm suitability of any flowmeter application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best flow meter for viscous liquids like oil?
Positive displacement meters, such as the Flomec OM Series, are generally the best choice for viscous liquids due to their high accuracy regardless of fluid thickness.
Can liquid flow meters measure chemicals?
Yes, though the specific technology and wetted materials need to be matched to the chemical’s properties and compatibility. Speak with BES Flowmeters to confirm the right configuration.
Do liquid flow meters need temperature compensation?
For some applications, particularly fuel measurement, temperature compensation improves accuracy since fluid volume can change with temperature. This can be built into certain meter and transmitter combinations.
Need help choosing the right flow meter for your application? Get in touch with the BES Flowmeters team for expert advice and a fast quote.