To understand flowmetering, it might be useful to delve into some basic theory on fluid mechanics, the characteristics of the fluid to be metered, and the way in which it travels through pipework systems.Įvery fluid has a unique set of characteristics, including:
Steam can be costed as a raw material at various stages of the production process thus allowing the true cost of individual product lines to be calculated. Steam flowmeters can measure steam usage (and thus steam cost) either centrally or at individual user points. The output signal from a proper steam flowmetering system can be used to control the quantity of steam being supplied to a process, and indicate that it is at the correct temperature and pressure.Īlso, by monitoring the rate of increase of flow at start-up, a steam flowmeter can be used in conjunction with a control valve to provide a slow warm-up function. Steam flowmeters can be used to monitor the results of energy saving schemes and to compare the efficiency of one piece of plant with another. It can also reduce problems associated with peak loads on the boiler plant. This may lead to changes in production methods to ensure economical steam usage.
