The accuracy of measuring flow rate in liquids and gases depends on the efficiency of your flowmeter. Since there are many types of flow meters, today, we shall focus on rotameter types to find out what they have to offer. The other name that a rotameter goes by is a variable area flow meter. This type of flow meter is best to measure fluid substance flowing through a tapered tube. When the measured fluid passes through the tube, the greater the cross-sectional area of the tube becomes. 

Rotameter

Rotameter was derived due to the way the previous versions of it worked. The older model had floats with slots for stabilizing the center as the measured fluid was flowing. This made the floats spin. The latest version of rotameters has several shapes of floats, made from different types of materials. There are floats made from metal, stainless steel, glass, or plastic. 

The float’s gravity is dependent on how the tapered tube is set. For this type of flow meters to work effectively, they have to be installed vertically. Based on the amount of fluid flowing through the tube, the float will rise upwards from the bottom. When there is zero flow, the float rests freely at the bottom of the tapered tube. 

Rotameters come in various tube sizes. Most are found in 1/8 to 2-inch range sizes, but you can find them in varieties of 1/16 to 4 inches. When using a rotameter, the user can easily check the flow rate reading using the graduated scale found on one side is the tube. The best thing about using the rotameter device is to use it to measure and monitor diverse fluid types. However, it has to be calibrated based on the fluid’s condition and characteristics. 

 Working Principle

Knowing the working principle of a rotameter makes it easier to reset it based on the type of fluid you want to measure. Among the factors that determine the accuracy of a rotameter are temperature, pressure, and flow control during the calibration process. Other changes that may affect how a rotameter reads flow rate include changes in density, temperature, or pressure. Since they are made from different types of materials, the weight of the float can also affect the flowmeter reading. Accounting for the changes that occur during the monitoring and measuring process, it is advisable to calibrate the rotameter device at least once a year. 

Selecting the Right Meter

1)Specifications:-Depending on the flowmeter, some properties will be different, such as B. flow rate, valve requirements, pipe diameter, working pressure, displayed balance type, and fluid temperature.

2)Media Type:-The rotameter can be configured to measure gas or liquid.

3)Materials:-The tube and float material can be made of a variety of materials. This should be taken into deliberation when choosing a flow meter that suits your specific needs.

4)Mounting Options:-Various mounting options are available, including inserts, embedded fixtures, embedded flanges, and embedded threads. No matter which option is selected, the flowmeter should be installed vertically with the widest end of the pipe at the top.

In addition to these functions, some variable range flow meters have other functions, including microprocessor programming, audible or visual alarms, and control functions. You may not need all these options. Therefore, please carefully determine the type of product to be used.

Main Features of a Rotameter 

Variable area flowmeters come loaded with several useful features that make the device reliable. With a single moving part, a rotameter offers accurate and credible mechanical flow rate measurement. The installation process is also very easy since it doesn’t have many parts to be assembled. With other flow meters, there is a need for a power supply to run them. Rotameters operate mechanically, meaning that they don’t require electric power to function. 

Variable area flowmeters are also versatile due to the different materials used to make them. They also come in different types and inlet and outlet sizes. They also offer linear scales, electronic output availability, and low pressure drops. These features make it easier for users to measure, interpret, and preserve mechanical flow measurement. If the tube of a rotameter is made from plastic or glass, it lowers the device’s price. This simple tapered tube flowmeter offers greater accuracy despite its simplicity. 

Like any other device, rotameters also have some setbacks. One of them is that even though you can use a rotameter to measure and monitor different types of fluids, you have to calibrate it first to suit the measuring needs of that particular fluid. The calibration process takes time. Another drawback of a variable area flow meter is locates in a vertical position to allow liquids to flow through it from the bottom. The operators should also check the rotameter to confirm if it was installed and calibrated according to the flow measurement needs. 

Rotameter Types 

The good thing about the rotameter flow measurement device is that it comes in diverse types designed and built based on their applications. 

Purgemeters

The most commonly used type of rotameters is purge meters. These types are made to facilitate monitor and accurate control flow rate purging gas or liquid. It has a constant-flow DP regulator to maintain the flow rate of purging media to meet the required terms of measurement. A needle valve and devices that are not operate using power to give the desired purge rate. Example of perimeters applications include:

• Orifice rotameters with purging pressure taps 
• Liquid level measurement is done by bubble tube purge meters 
• Continuous forced bearing lubrication
• Density measurement with bubble tube purge meters 
• Gas analyzer purge meters 
• Orifice Bypass 

Other rotameter types are designed to measure flow rate in larger pipelines. These types are placed in bypass lines around an orifice plate. This helps to measure and monitor flow rates in larger pipes. The orifice plate causes the differential pressure in the measured liquid or gas, creating a slight low flow measured through the pipeline. 

These types of rotameters are commonly used in measuring the flow rate of hazardous regions or remote areas. Since they don’t require power to run, they can also be used in areas with no electricity supply. The operator doesn’t have to remove or disassemble the flowmeter when cleaning or adjusting it. In the main pipeline, the scale readings can be graduated indirect units. 

Advantages of Rotameters

Rotameter is one of several different flowmeter options. There are certain advantages to using this particular device. Flow meters are easy to manufacture and inexpensive, which makes them a very cheap option. They do not need any additional external force. The content of the tested substance helps reduce the possibility of misunderstanding. Due to their compact design and portability, these meters are generally versatile and can be used in a variety of systems. As the float moves up the tube, the area of ​​the flow path increases approximately linearly. The flow tube is made of transparent glass, so it is very resistant to chemical corrosion and thermal shock.

Conclusion 

Now that you know what a rotameter device is and how it works to provide accurate measurement, the ball us know on your side to select the correct type of flowmeter to use in your application. If you haven’t found what you are watching for, ask the manufacturer for guidance.