Flow Meters

Flow meters measure the rate or total volume of liquid, gas, or steam moving through a pipe or open channel. We stock mechanical, electromagnetic, ultrasonic, and thermal flow meters for industrial process control, water management, and laboratory applications.

Types of Flow Meters

Mechanical (turbine and paddlewheel) flow meters use a rotating element to measure flow velocity and are a cost-effective option for clean liquids. Electromagnetic (mag) flow meters measure flow using a magnetic field and require no moving parts, making them well suited for conductive liquids and dirty or abrasive media. Ultrasonic flow meters use sound waves to measure flow non-invasively, often clamped onto the outside of a pipe without cutting into the line. Thermal mass flow meters measure gas flow directly by mass, unaffected by pressure and temperature variations that affect volumetric measurement.

Choosing the Right Flow Meter

Selection depends primarily on the media being measured (liquid, gas, or steam), pipe size, required accuracy, and whether the fluid is clean, dirty, or conductive. Non-conductive fluids rule out magnetic meters, while highly viscous or dirty fluids can foul mechanical meters with moving parts.

Accuracy & Output

Accuracy in this category typically ranges from ±0.5% to ±2% of reading depending on meter type and installation conditions. Most digital models offer 4-20mA, pulse, or digital communication outputs for integration with control systems and data logging.

Common Applications

• Water and wastewater treatment
• Chemical dosing and process control
• HVAC and building water management
• Oil, gas, and fuel measurement
• Compressed air and gas flow monitoring

Not sure which flow meter fits your application? Contact our team — we can help match meter type, media, and accuracy to your specific requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of flow meter do I need for my application?

The right flow meter depends primarily on your media type and fluid condition — magnetic meters suit conductive liquids, ultrasonic meters work well for non-invasive measurement, and thermal meters are typically used for gas flow.

Can flow meters be installed without cutting into a pipe?

Yes, clamp-on ultrasonic flow meters can be installed on the outside of a pipe without cutting into the line or interrupting flow, making them a practical option for retrofits.

What accuracy should I expect from a flow meter?

Most industrial flow meters offer accuracy between ±0.5% and ±2% of reading, though this can vary based on installation conditions such as straight pipe run length and flow profile.

Do you provide calibration certificates for flow meters?

Yes, select models are available with a NIST-traceable calibration certificate at the time of purchase. Look for the certification filter above or contact us for a custom calibration request.