When measuring flow rate, liquid turbine flow meters are an essential tool. With their accurate and reliable readings, these meters are highly sought after in various industries, from industrial production to water management. Not only are they accurate and reliable, but they are also relatively easy to install and maintain. However, if you’re looking to make the most of your turbines, it’s essential to understand the requirements for the installation environment. In this blog, we’ll explore the use of liquid turbine flow meters and the requirements for the installation environment.
Liquid Turbine Flow Meter Measurement
The ideal measurement environment is a crucial factor in ensuring the optimal functioning of a turbine-type flow meter. However, in many cases, the complex conditions on-site can interfere with the accurate measurement of the flow meter. The flow meter is divided into two types – velocity flow meter and positive displacement flow meter – based on different measurement principles. The installation requirements for each type are vastly different and need to be considered for an accurate result.
Factors affecting the accuracy of Liquid Turbine Flow Meters
The velocity liquid turbine flow meters generally require a long enough and straight pipe section to ensure a filled pipe and a stable flow rate. In contrast, most positive displacement flow meters, such as oval gear flow meters, do not require such long and straight pipe sections. When installing and using these flow meters, it is essential to pay attention to the instrument manual, as it will provide detailed instructions on the installation location, flow direction, maintenance space, and installation direction. Â It is also essential to consider how these factors influence the meter’s performance.
1. Safety vs. Turbine Flow Meters
When selecting a turbine flow meter, safety is paramount. To ensure the highest safety standards, it is crucial to consider factors such as explosion-proof performance for hazardous and explosive environments, atmosphere adaptability, and the type of protective electrical equipment needed to meet safety rules and standards. Â With a suitable turbine flow meter, you can feel confident that your operations are safe and secure.
2. Compressive strength vs. Turbine Flow Meter
The turbine flow meter is designed to provide accurate, reliable liquid flow measurements. Its shell is constructed to withstand a compressive strength test for 5 minutes at a test pressure of 1.5 instances the most running strain without harm or air leakage. This ensures reliable readings, assuring that the meter can be trusted for accurate readings and long-term performance.
3. Ambient temperature vs. Turbine Flow Meter
The ambient temperature can significantly affect the performance of the turbine flow meter. The electronic components and the flow detection part of the instrument can be adversely affected by fluctuations in the surrounding temperature. To ensure optimal performance, the turbine flow meter should be installed in an environment with steady and consistent temperatures.
4. Environmental humidity vs. Turbine Flow Meter
The environmental humidity of the turbine flow meter has a significant impact on its performance. High humidity can cause atmospheric and electrolytic corrosion, reduce electrical insulation, and increase the risk of static electricity. Low humidity, on the other hand, can lead to condensation and corrosion. Rapid changes in the medium temperature can also affect the moisture of the turbine flow meter.
To ensure the smooth operation of the turbine flow meter, it is important to anticipate the range of changes in the ambient humidity, as well as the potential adverse effects on the instrument. Â Therefore, users should carefully consider the potential risks and verify how the chosen instrument will respond to changes in humidity.
5. Electrical interference vs. Turbine Flow Meter
The electrical interference of a turbine flow meter can be a source of errors, so it’s essential to take steps to prevent or reduce interference from power cables, motors, and electrical switches. Â To do this, ensure these sources are correctly grounded or shielded to reduce electromagnetic interference. You can provide accurate readings from your turbine flow meter by taking the necessary precautions.
6. Pipeline vibration vs. Turbine Flow Meter
The pipeline vibration of a turbine flow meter can pose a significant risk to its accuracy and reliability. To ensure the best possible performance from your flow meter, you should use a well-designed, labeled pipeline as a reliable support structure. Additionally, installing a pulsation buffer away from vibration or pulsation sources can help reduce any interference caused by the pump and compressor. Doing this will help to ensure that your turbine flow meter’s accuracy and reliability are not compromised.
7. The upstream and downstream pipe sections of the Turbine Flow Meter and the necessities for direct pipe sections.
For accurate and reliable measurement of fluid flow rates, it is essential to install the upstream and downstream pipe sections of the turbine flow meter in a straight line, with no sharp bends or narrow sections. Â The straight pipe sections should be of adequate length. This helps to reduce the flow disturbances caused by the distortion of the velocity profile and the vortex, which are often caused by two or more space elbows. The installation of an upstream rectifier can further improve the stability of the flow velocity and the full pipe state.
8. Pipeline layout direction vs. Turbine Flow Meter
Installing a flow meter in the wrong orientation can severely affect its accuracy and performance. For example, when installed vertically, the fluid’s downward force will affect the instrument’s rotating components, leading to linear or repeated destruction. Therefore, most flow meters should be installed horizontally to ensure optimal performance, as specified by the manufacturer. In addition, smart liquid turbine flow meters should permanently be installed horizontally, as this will maximize their measurement performance.