Flow measurement can be fraught with various challenges, from unpredictable flow fluctuations to handling high-viscosity fluids and turbulent conditions. This guide explores common issues faced in flow metering, such as maintaining accuracy in low-flow conditions, dealing with varying fluid densities, and operating in corrosive environments. Learn about the advanced solutions provided by Kobold to tackle these problems and ensure precise flow measurements across diverse applications.
Unpredictable flow fluctuations impacting measurement accuracy
Unpredictable flow fluctuations can distort flow profiles, introduce noise, and compromise sensor performance, leading to inaccuracies in flow measurements. These fluctuations may arise from changes in fluid velocity, turbulence, or environmental conditions, posing challenges for maintaining measurement accuracy in dynamic fluid environments.
OUR Solution:
The pulse outputs of Kobold's DVH, DVE, and DVZ flow meters, which operate based on the vortex principle, can help maintain measurement accuracy in scenarios where unpredictable flow fluctuations occur, as the frequency of the vortex shedding is directly proportional to the flow velocity, allowing for dynamic adjustments to compensate for irregular flow patterns.
Difficulty in obtaining accurate flow meter readings for high-viscosity fluids
High-viscosity fluids pose challenges for flow metering due to their tendency to exhibit non-Newtonian flow behavior and resistance to flow. Traditional flow meters may struggle to accurately measure the flow rates of these fluids, leading to inaccuracies in measurement data. Additionally, high-viscosity fluids may alter the flow profile within the meter, further complicating readings. To address these challenges and ensure precise measurements, specialized flow metering technologies and advanced calibration techniques are often required.
OUR Solution:
Kobold's positive displacement flowmeters, such as the DON and OVZ models, are designed to accurately measure high-viscosity media, making them suitable for a wide range of applications involving the flow measurement of viscous substances like petroleum, oils, and pastes. Our DON with custom rotor elements is even rated to 1,000,000 cP!
Inadequate flow meter performance in low-flow conditions
In low-flow conditions, flow meters may struggle to maintain measurement accuracy due to reduced flow velocities and flow rates approaching the lower limits of their operating range. This can result in measurement errors, fluctuations, or even signal loss. Selecting flow meters with a wide turndown ratio and employing appropriate calibration techniques can help mitigate these challenges and improve performance in low-flow conditions.
OUR Solution:
Kobold offers a variety of products, including the BGK/KDS and KDF series variable area flowmeters, which are capable of accurately measuring low flow rates for both liquid and gaseous media, making them ideal solutions for applications requiring precise measurement of low flow conditions.
Challenges in accurately measuring flow rates for turbulent flow conditions
Turbulent flow conditions can cause flow disturbances, such as eddies and vortices, which can interfere with flow meter performance and accuracy. Traditional flow meters may struggle to maintain stability and precision in turbulent flow environments, leading to measurement uncertainties. Advanced flow metering technologies, such as ultrasonic and Coriolis flow meters, offer improved performance in turbulent flow conditions, providing accurate and reliable measurements despite the challenges posed by turbulence.
OUR Solution:
Kobold's vortex flowmeters like the DVE, DVZ, and DVH rely on the vortex shedding phenomenon. As turbulent media flows past an obstruction, alternating low-pressure vortices are created and shed downstream. These vortices create a lateral force that can be accurately and repeatedly measured by the flowmeters to determine the flow rate, even in fluctuating or turbulent conditions.
Concerns about flow meter accuracy with varying fluid densities
Changes in fluid density can impact flow meter accuracy by altering the flow profile and affecting the performance of the flow meter sensor. Traditional flow meters may be calibrated for specific fluid densities, leading to inaccuracies when operating with fluids of different densities. To address this challenge, some flow meters employ density compensation techniques or offer configurable settings to accommodate varying fluid densities and maintain measurement accuracy across different operating conditions.
OUR Solution:
While we offer many options not directly impacted by density changes, in circumstances where density fluctuations are a concern, we would recommend our DON flow meter line. The DON Oval Gear Positive Displacement Flow Meters are designed to provide accurate and reliable flow measurement even when the density of the fluid being measured varies over time or between batches.
Inadequate flow meter performance in corrosive media environments
Corrosive fluids can damage flow meter components, degrade sensor accuracy, and affect measurement reliability over time. Flow meters made of incompatible materials may be susceptible to corrosion in aggressive chemical environments, leading to decreased performance and shortened lifespan. Selecting flow meters with corrosion-resistant materials and protective coatings, and implementing proper maintenance practices, can help mitigate corrosion effects and ensure long-term performance in corrosive fluid environments.
OUR Solution:
When dealing with corrosive media, Kobold's MIK and KSK models provide a rugged solution for maintaining accurate flow measurement. These flowmeters are available in a wide variety of material combinations all designed to withstand harsh, corrosive environments.
Challenges in obtaining accurate flow meter readings for pulsating flows
Pulsating flows can cause fluctuations in flow rates, leading to measurement errors and inaccuracies in flow meter readings. Certain flow meter technologies may struggle to accurately capture rapid changes in flow velocity and flow direction associated with pulsating flows, resulting in distorted measurement data. Certain flow metering technologies, such as electromagnetic and vortex flow meters, are often used to address these challenges and provide accurate readings for pulsating flows.
OUR Solution:
For applications involving pulsating or bi-directional flow, Kobold's DUC flow meter provides a solution to overcome the challenges of obtaining accurate readings. This flow meter can measure flow in both directions, enabling it to reliably monitor fluctuating or reversing flow conditions that would compromise the accuracy of conventional one-way flow meters.
Inadequate flow meter performance in environments with high levels of vibration
High levels of vibration can disrupt flow meter operation, causing sensor drift, signal noise, and mechanical failures. Certain flow meter types may be sensitive to vibration-induced disturbances, leading to measurement inaccuracies and reduced reliability. Mounting flow meters securely, using vibration-resistant materials, and implementing vibration isolation techniques can help mitigate the effects of vibration and maintain flow meter performance in vibrating environments.
OUR Solution:
We offer a wide range of vibration-resistant flowmeters designed to ensure adequate performance, including our DF, DON, MIM, and a number of other flow meter models. These Kobold solutions are specifically engineered to operate reliably and provide accurate measurements even when subjected to significant vibrations.
Concerns about flow meter accuracy in installations with limited straight pipe runs
Insufficient straight pipe runs can cause flow disturbances, flow profile distortions, and measurement inaccuracies in flow meter readings. Some flow meter technologies require a certain length of straight pipe upstream and downstream of the meter to achieve optimal flow conditions and maintain measurement accuracy. Selecting flow meters with built-in flow conditioning elements or using flow straighteners and flow regulators can help mitigate the effects of limited straight pipe runs and improve measurement accuracy in constrained installations.
OUR Solution:
Our solution for limited straight run installations is our line of variable area flow meters, such as the BGN and VKM, which provide accurate measurements without any straight run requirements. We also offer other options like our DF and DON flow meter lines that can measure without straight run requirements for a variety of applications. With these products, reliable flow measurement can be achieved, even for areas with limited straight pipe runs.
Heavy-Duty Industrial All-Metal Variable Area Flow Meter
$1,756
All Plastic Flow Meter and Switch
$236
Orifice Type Differential Pressure Flow Meter
$937
