Rotameter is a device used to
measure the volume of fluids in a closed tube. Rotameters are also called
variable area flow meters. These meters determine the flow rate by converting
the cross-sectional area when the fluid passes through that area. They then
create a measurable result.
Rotameter has
a tapering pipe made of glass and afloat. The float is made of different forms.
The spheres and ellipsoids are among the most common states of the rotameter.
It is not a must for the float to float on the fluid. It should have a greater
density than the liquid.
The Working Principle of
Rotameters
Rotameter is a moveable area
meter. It operates on the principle of upthrust force applied by the fluid and
the force of gravity. The fluids reach the tapered line. Some liquids collide
with the float. If the liquid is higher, the float also rises. The level of the
float is directly related to the liquid flow rate. It also moves up and down to
the liquid's flow rate. And the area surrounding the float.
Characteristics of Rotameter
Rotameter has increased to
the same scale. These meters have flow rates that are related to the area. What
shows that the rotameter is not linear is about 5%.
Differential
The loss of pressure over the
float is an essential feature of the rotameter. The overall differential
through the meter increases at high flow rates because of friction in the
fittings.
Accuracy
Most Rotameters have high
accuracy levels. They are usually plus or minus two of full-scale reading. The
accuracy increases if you calibrate it or the length of the scale. The
repeatability of these meters is generally excellent.
Capacity
Rotameters are among the most
common flow meters in the flow measurement industry. The more enormous
capacities vary from 0.5cm, and the standard is 30 cm.
Minimum Piping Needs
You can install these meters
without considering connections. Also, most people do not consider the lengths
of straight pipe processes when installing this meter.
Corrosive Fluids
Rotameters can measure
corrosive fluids well. They often measure liquids like;
· Oils
· Tar
· Coolants
· Sulfuric acids
· Black liquor
· Beverages
· Aqua regia
· And molten sulfur
Pressure Drops
The rotameter can manage the
low-pressure loss. You can do this by putting very light floats on big gauges.
Parts of A Rotameter
Rotameters are made in a
mandrel and annealed to prevent inner stresses from getting that strong pipes.
The method also allows the creation of lines with enormous productivity.
Floats
Floats are made from several
materials. This is to get resistance to corrosion. The arrangement is usually
in terms of the capacity of the meter. Also, the float's shape helps to
determine how the rotameter will be affected by the changes in the thickness of
the liquid. Floats that have sharp edges are usually not affected by the change
in viscosity.
Advantages of Rotameter
· The cost for rotameter is
low
· They have low-pressure
drops
· Their range is the best
· These meters are perfect
for small flow rates
· They are equipped with
alarms and switches.
· They are also excellent in
measuring the flow of corrosive fluids.
· You can as well find
thickness immune floats
· You can use these meters to
measure slurry fluids
Disadvantages
· Glass tubes or pipes are
hard to handle when determining the flow of fluids
· You have to mount it in a
vertical way to measure the flow properly
· It is not fit for pulsating
applications
· They measure fluids in
small pipes
· They are usually fit for
low temperatures
· Their accuracy levels are
lower compared to other meters
· They require straight lines
to measure the flow of liquids
Applications of Rotameter
Rotameters monitor the
extraction of off-show platforms. They are durable and straightforward, which
makes them best for controlling the injection of substances in the fluids to
prevent corrosion. They also are used to transmit coolants, dry gas, and
lubricants.
They are also used in
industrial process analyzers. Installing these meters helps you to see early
signs of clogging in the flow. The clogging may affect the flow rate of
liquids. When choosing a rotameter, always make sure you use it for the right
application. If you fail to do it, the accuracy levels may be affected.
Also, make sure you know the
size of the tube before you install your meter. Rotameters have ranging sizes,
so it is essential to speak to the manufacturer to give fittings. Many
rotameter creations are available in the market. Always choose the one that is
perfect for your application.
Conclusion
Rotameters are cheap and best for measuring the flow rate of liquids. These meters are used in many applications and are still economical. You can use them to measure flow from low to high flow rates. Always choose a meter that will serve you for a long time. Also, seek help from the seller to help you select the best design.
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