Flow meters are important instruments in the field of instrumentation and control for industrial plants. They are used to measure the flow rate of liquids, gases, and steam in various applications. Accurate flow measurement is crucial in controlling and optimizing the production processes in an industrial plant, as it helps to ensure that the correct amount of fluid is being supplied to the system.
In many industries, flow meters are used to measure the flow of liquids such as water, oil, chemicals, and fuels. By monitoring the flow rate, plant operators can control the pressure and temperature of the fluid to maintain the desired conditions for the process. Flow meters also help to prevent over- or under-supply of fluid, which can cause problems such as equipment damage or reduced efficiency.
Another important application of flow meters is in the measurement of gases in industrial processes such as combustion, ventilation, and process heating. Flow meters are used to monitor the flow of gases to ensure that they are being supplied at the correct rate and pressure. This helps to prevent hazardous conditions, such as explosions or leaks, from occurring in the plant.
In steam applications, flow meters are used to measure the flow of steam in boilers and turbines. Accurate flow measurement of steam is crucial for maintaining the efficiency of these systems, as well as ensuring that the correct amount of steam is being supplied to the process. Flow meters also help to prevent over- or under-supply of steam, which can result in decreased efficiency and increased costs.
There are several types of flow meters available in the market, each with their own unique features and capabilities. The most common types of flow meters include:
- Positive Displacement Flow Meters: These meters measure flow by dividing the fluid into fixed volumes and counting the number of volumes that pass a given point in a specified time. They are commonly used for measuring the flow of low-viscosity liquids such as fuels and chemicals.
- Velocity Flow Meters: These meters measure the flow rate by determining the velocity of the fluid. The most common velocity flow meters are the Pitot tube, venturi, and orifice meter. These meters are typically used for gases and liquids.
- Mass Flow Meters: These meters measure the flow rate by determining the mass of fluid that passes a given point in a specified time. They are commonly used in the food and beverage industry, as well as in the chemical industry.
- Magnetic Flow Meters: These meters measure the flow rate of electrically conductive fluids, such as water or wastewater, by using magnetic fields. They are non-intrusive, making them ideal for applications where a minimal pressure drop is required.
When choosing the type of flow meter, several factors should be considered, including:
- Fluid Properties: The type of fluid being measured will affect the type of flow meter that can be used. For example, if the fluid is corrosive or abrasive, a flow meter with corrosion-resistant materials may be necessary.
- Flow Range: The desired flow range must be considered when choosing a flow meter. A flow meter with a wide flow range is typically more expensive than a flow meter with a narrower range.
- Accuracy: The accuracy of the flow meter is critical, as it determines the level of control that can be maintained over the process. Consideration should be given to the desired accuracy, as well as the cost of the meter.
- Installation: The type of flow meter selected will depend on the installation requirements, such as the location of the meter, the size of the piping, and the orientation of the flow.
- Maintenance: Some flow meters require more maintenance than others. Consideration should be given to the cost of maintenance and the level of maintenance required for the specific flow meter.
- Cost: Finally, cost is an important factor in choosing the type of flow meter. Consideration should be given to the initial cost of the meter, as well as the ongoing costs such as maintenance and repair.
below is some flow meter supplier for reference
ABB Sakti Industri, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: ABB
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 25515555 Fax: (62 21) 25515566
Website: www.new.abb.com
Azbil Berca Indonesia, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: Azbil,
Contact: Phone: (62 21)2305538 Fax: (62 21) 2305540 Email: adm.azbil@id.azbil.com
Website: www.azbil.co.id
Bhumi Arthaprima Cemerlang, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: SPS, PECOFacet and FMC
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 7533805 Fax: (62 21) 7533807 Email: bac@ptbac.co.id
Website: www.ptbac.co.id
Control System Arena Paranusa, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor:
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 7807881 Fax: (62 21) 7807889 Email: sales@ptcs.co.id
Website: www.ptcs.co.id
Duta Firza, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: Ashcroft, Yamari
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 8356055 Fax: (62 21) 8356056 Email: info@dutafirza.com
Website: www.dutafirza.com
Duta Instrument Alfa Sakti, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: ABB, TMCO, CalRef, Master Flo
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 3522070 Fax: (62 21) 3843974 Email:
Website: www.duta.instrument.co.id
Dwirestu Rejekiguna, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor:
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 6267576 Fax: (62 21) 6598363 Email: sales@dwirestu.com
Website: www.dwirestu.com
Emcon Multikencana, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: Omron
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 6308821 Fax: (62 21) 6495089 Email: sales@elmecon-mk.com
Website: www.elmecon-mk.com
Flotech Control Indonesia, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: Flotech
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 45850778 Fax: (62 21) 45850779
Website:
Fuji Electric Indonesia, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: Fuji
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 39843211 or (62 21) 5724281 Fax: (62 21) 5724283
Website: www.id.fujielectric.com
Gamako Mandiri,PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor:
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 6902756 Fax: (62 21) 6902758 Email: sales@gamako.co.id
Website: www.gamako.co.id
Grama Bazita, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor:
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 29660300 Fax: (62 21) 29660301 Email: info.corporate@gramabazita.com
Website: www.gramabazita.com
Honeywell Indonesia, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: Honeywell
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 5358833 Email: sensorandswitchesindonesia@honeywell.com
Website: www.honeywell.com
Matco Asia Indonesia, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor:
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 7224376 Fax: (62 21) 7393803 Email: matcosales@matcoasia.co.id
Website: www.matcoasia.com
Ultra Delta Maju, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: Oval, Koso, Fuji Electric, Siemens, Hisco
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 58300678 Fax: (62 21) 58300686 Email: marketing@udm.co.id
Website: www.udm.co.id
Sarana Instruments, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: Sor
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 5347855 Fax: (62 21) 5347866 Email: faisal.hendri@saranainstrument.com
Website: www.sorinc.com
Sistemindra Kontrolindo, PT
Sole Agent/Sole Distributor/Agent/Distributor: Yokogawa
Contact: Phone: (62 21) 7902732 Fax: (62 21) 7995535 Email: siksales@yokogawa.co.id
Website: www.yokogawa.com