If you want to run a factory with accuracy and minimal or no losses, you need to select great liquid flow meters. You should be keen on the buying process and address all your needs with one meter. Flow gauging is the key to the smooth running of the firm. 

There are a few factors you should consider when selecting a flow meter. If you ignore them, you may end up regretting your choice of a flow meter. Here are some of the things you should look out for before buying flow gauge devices. 

Consider the Media You are Measuring

When choosing a liquid flow meter, you don’t need to worry about the type of media since you know it is liquid. But you should consider the type of liquid you will gauge. 

Some firms deal with clean liquids, while others deal with dirty liquids, corrosive liquids, and conductive liquids. Each type of liquid needs specific types of flow meters. 

Viscosity and Flow Profile

Different liquids have different viscosities. Thus, it affects the selection of a flow meter. Viscous fluids are slow. You can not use them with a flow meter meant for water-like fluids. 

Minimum and Maximum Flow Rate

You should know the min and max flow rate of your fluid. You can know this if you have details on the viscosity and pressure of the fluid. With that, you can select a liquid flow meter that can work with that range. 

Temperature and Pressure Rating

Different fluids run at different heat ranges. Some industries prefer you to run the liquids under extreme heat conditions. Thus, you will need a flow meter that can resist extreme heat conditions. Some meters are made to work with fluids solely at room temperatures. The meter will crash if you subject it to extreme temperatures.
The meter’s pressure rating is another important factor. It helps you know if it can handle the pressure in your flow channel. 

Meter Location and Installation

The meter location dictates the accuracy of the readings. Many liquid flow meters require you to install at a position with straight pipes upstream and downstream. Thus, it would help if you check out your flow channels before placing the order.

Do not fret if your channel has a lot of bends, barriers, and valves. Some meters are made to overcome the disturbance and give accurate results. 

Data Recording

Modern meters have data recording and display. However, the transmission and display need the type of data to display. You can have a flow rate as volumetric or mass gauging. Thus, know the type of flow rate you need and calibrate the meter to your needs. 

Accuracy and Repeatability

The accuracy of a flow meter is critical in various industries. Medical, food processing, and beverage industries are examples of firms that need accuracy to the tiniest details. A slight error can lead to massive poisoning since humans and animals ingest the products. 

There are some industries like irrigation that need average accuracy. Thus, the accuracy of the meter is not a significant thought. All you need is to estimate the water needed to cut wastage. 

Initial and Total Cost

The cost of liquid flow meters differs from type to type. Even the method of installation differs. Thus, the complexity of the process dictates the final cost of the meter. Thus, ensure you have all the details about installation and purchase. It helps you make a rough estimate of the expected budget. 

Alarms and Alerts

Many industries that need accurate flow gauging have meters with alarms and alerts. You attach the meter to telemetry so that it sends a signal once they detect an error. 

Tolerance to Silt 

Many times you need a liquid flow meter for dirty fluids. With time, the flow channel will be subject to siltation. Thus, it would be great if you had a meter that will gauge the flow rate even when there is siltation. If need be, get a flow meter that will alert you when siltation affects the liquid’s flow rate and pressure within the flow channel.

Sensor Type

Each fluid variable requires a specific type of flow sensor. You can buy a flow sensor separately. However, there are flow meters that have an inbuilt sensor. Thus, you would need to know the type of flow sensor before you sign the deal. 

For the meter that does not have inbuilt flow sensors, you should install a flow sensor that is compatible with your meter. Gather the details of the suitable sensors and see if they work well with your type of fluid. 

Life Cycle

Evert tool has an expected life span. Even different liquid flow meters have varied life spans. Some applications need to serve you for long years without maintenance. Other applications would work well with a disposable device to replace after every two or three years. Check your fluid needs, installation, and other variables before checking the life of a liquid flow meter. 

Maintenance

Please ask about the maintenance needs from the producer or the retailer. Get the data of the regular inspection, cleaning, replacing parts, wear analysis, etc. The duration of maintenance allows you to gauge the cost of maintenance. 

Also, you should know if the maintenance practices are in line with environmental protection. It ensures your routine practices are cheap. 

Reputable provider

Make sure you select a reputable provider for your purchase. It ensures you get the best deal for your budget. A good provider will give you all the details you need before purchase. They will also reveal the pros and cons of each liquid flow meter. 

Reputable providers care about their image and brand. They will want to protect it with their all. Thus, they’ll offer you the best services and after-sale services. Some will even install the tools for free. 

A reputable retailer will ensure they sell you a tool that is compatible with your system. Thus, it would help if you tried to buy from the same provider that sold you other flow channel tools. Also, make sure they calibrate the flow meter to your fluid parameters. It helps you maintain the gauging standards. 

Conclusion 

The above points are crucial when selecting a flow measurement tool. They make you make the best selection for your use. And since liquid flow meters differ in their uses and properties, be keen on your needs to make the best choice.