Metal Tube Rotameter – Durable and Precise Flow Measurement
What is a Metal Tube Rotameter?
A Metal Tube Rotameter is a type of variable area flow meter designed to measure the flow rates of liquids and gases accurately. Constructed with a robust metal tube, it provides durability and long-term reliability, making it an excellent choice for industrial applications. The metal tube flow meter operates based on the principle that fluid flow causes a float inside the tube to rise or fall, indicating the flow rate on a calibrated scale.
Key Features of Metal Tube Flow Meters
Metal tube rotameters offer numerous advantages, making them a popular choice for various industrial applications. Some key features include:
- Rugged Construction – Made from aluminum or 316 stainless steel, ensuring resistance to harsh conditions.
- Wide Measurement Range – Suitable for both low and high flow rates in liquid and gas applications.
- Multiple Connection Options – Available in flanged, threaded, or tri-clamp connection types.
- High-Temperature Resistance – Can withstand up to 200°C, with an optional 300°C variant.
- Pressure Handling – Supports up to 40 bar, with an option for 100 bar for high-pressure systems.
- Precise Measurement – Ensures ±2% FS accuracy, with an optional upgrade to ±1.6% FS.
Technical Specifications
The metal tube variable area flow meter is designed with high-quality materials and advanced specifications to ensure precision and durability in industrial applications.
- Outer Casing Material: Aluminum, providing excellent protection and durability.
- Wetted Parts: Constructed from 316 stainless steel, PTFE, or plastic, making it compatible with various fluids.
- Flow Measurement Units: Supports L/h, m³/h, kg/h, and % for versatile applications.
- Flow Rate Ranges:
- Water: 30 L/h to 120,000 L/h (customized scales available upon request).
- Air: 0.1 Nm³/h to 450 Nm³/h (customized scales available upon request).
- Connection Types: Available in flanged, threaded, and tri-clamp configurations.
- Connection Sizes: Ranges from ½” to 5”, ensuring compatibility with various pipeline systems.
- Mounting Length: Standard 250mm, with an optional 350mm explosion-proof model.
- Temperature Resistance: Can operate at temperatures up to 200°C, with an optional 300°C version.
- Protection Class: Rated IP65, offering dust and water resistance.
- Accuracy: ±2% FS, with an optional ±1.6% FS for enhanced precision.
- Maximum Pressure: 40 Bar, with an optional upgrade to 100 Bar for high-pressure applications.
- Optional Features:
- Alarm Output: Switch output (Micro Switch: 3A/250VAC, 5A/30VDC, 0.4/125VDC).
- Analog Output + Alarm: 4-20mA two-wire output + switch function.
How Does a Metal Tube Variable Area Flow Meter Work?
The metal tube variable area flow meter functions based on the principle of variable area measurement. The fluid enters the tapered metal tube, pushing a float upwards. The float stabilizes at a point where the force of the flow balances with gravity. The position of the float corresponds to the flow rate, which is then displayed on the indicator.
Applications of Metal Tube Flow Meters
These industrial flow meters are widely used in sectors such as:
- Chemical and Petrochemical Industries – For monitoring liquids and gases in processing plants.
- Water Treatment Plants – Measuring water flow rates accurately.
- Pharmaceutical Industry – Ensuring precise liquid dosage.
- Food & Beverage Industry – Used in the production of liquid-based products.
- Power Plants – Monitoring the flow of cooling water and other fluids.
Flow Rate Ranges for Metal Tube Flow Meters
The flow meters are available in different measurement ranges to suit diverse applications:
| Medium | Flow Range |
|---|---|
| Water | 30 L/h – 120,000 L/h |
| Air | 0.1 Nm³/h – 450 Nm³/h |
For customized flow ranges, specialized scales are available upon request.
Installation and Mounting Options
The metal tube flow meter is designed for easy installation with various mounting options:
- Flanged connections for high-pressure applications.
- Threaded connections for compact systems.
- Tri-clamp fittings for sanitary industries like food and pharmaceuticals.
The standard installation length is 250mm, with an option for 350mm explosion-proof models.
Additional Options for Enhanced Functionality
To improve operational efficiency, the variable area meter can be equipped with:
- Alarm Output – Switch output (Micro Switch: 3A/250VAC, 5A/30VDC, 0.4/125VDC).
- Analog Output – 4-20mA signal for real-time flow monitoring.
- Explosion-Proof Models – Suitable for hazardous environments.
Why Choose a Metal Tube Rotameter?
The metal tube rotameter is a superior choice due to:
- Durability – Made with corrosion-resistant materials.
- Versatility – Handles various liquids and gases.
- Accuracy – Provides consistent and precise flow measurements.
- Ease of Use – Simple installation and maintenance.