
The Positive Displacement Flow Meter
The measurement of volumetric flow requires a relative degree of exactitude because a failure to this end could result in a breakdown in organizational decision-making. This is why a flow meter is essential for all those individuals and companies who have a vested interest in the functionality of flow rates. Of course, each situation requires unique engineering standards that adapt to the contextual constraints. The type of flow meter you choose will thus depend on a number of different factors, such as type of gas or liquid; minimum and maximum flow rates; whether the flow is continuous or not; and the maximum pressure at the location, just to name a few. It should also be stated that not every situation requires supreme accuracy. For instance, water flowing to a vineyard may only need accuracy of 5 to 10 percent, but for those applications that require a greater degree of precision, the positive displacement meter is probably the best bet, as it is the only device to directly measure exact volume. In the following, you will become acquainted with some of the applications of this nifty piece of equipment.
The Final Frontier of Flow
It might come as no surprise that one of the major users of this product is the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), along with many other aerospace and aviation companies. As you can imagine there is a great deal of liquid and gaseous flow to track, so the applications are many. The most notable use of this product is the detection and measurement of the flow of dinitrogen tetroxide, otherwise known as rocket propellant, using the 915 BATRT Field Indicator in explosion proof housing. How else could NASA engineers accurately measure the gargantuan amount of fuel flowing into those beastly ships?
Petro-Flow
It is easy to forget about all the labor that goes into the refinement of crude oils before they are injected into a nation of vehicles. A whole slew of additives have to be pumped into this natural resource, from simple surfactants to corrosion inhibitors. Chemicals, such as these, are injected at high pressures and have to be monitored to ensure accuracy. Because these chemicals vary in viscosity and density, the flow meter must be able to handle a number of different kinds of liquids. That is where positive displacement flow meters come in. Due to the tight spaces between moving parts, this type of flow meter is able to handle the high pressure rating. Without these specially made gadgets, the world economy might literally screech to a halt.
The List Is Too Long
There are too many possible uses to run through here. The list goes on and on. The following are some of the possible applications of positive displacement flow meters:
- Hydraulic Test Stands
- Batching and Mixing
- Lubrication Oil Blending
Wherever there is need for an accurate measurement of volumetric flow, this ingenious trinket will be on call. For more information about the uses and advantages of this type of flow meter, look up a distributor online or in the phonebook. Talking to an expert can help you decide which flow meter is right for you.
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