Water flow meter

Water flow meter: precise, real-time data for industrial applications

ifm water flow meters provide the real-time data and precision measurement you need to make the best decisions for your facility. Our magnetic-inductive (magmeters) and ultrasonic water flow measuring devices simultaneously detect volumetric flow quantity, total quantity, and temperature.

You can adjust peak consumption, current consumption, and accumulated consumption data through the push button interface.

Common water applications

ifm water flow devices cool circuits for the steel, the automotive, and glassmaking industries. Waste management and industrial applications include water consumption and drinking water supply measurement.

Specifications for water meter technologies

Specs for magnetic flow meters (magmeters) and ultrasonic devices:

Magnetic-inductive

• The maximum flow rate is 160 gpm
• Volumetric flow rate, total quantity, and temperature measurements
• Available output signals: Switching / analog, IO-Link, or dual analog
• ¼”, ½”, ¾”, 1”, 1 ½”, 2” process connections available with G (BSPP), NPT, or Rc threads
• Maximum medium temperature is 190°F

Ultrasonic

• The maximum flow rate is 264 gpm
• Volumetric flow rate, total quantity, and temperature measurements
• Available output signals: Switching / analog and IO-Link
• 1” or 2” process connections available with G (BSPP) or NPT threads
• Maximum medium temperature is 212°F

Benefits in industrial settings

Water flow counters, or meters, enable cost savings, support process optimization, facilitate maintenance, and promote resource conservation.

Prevent equipment downtime

Confirming the flow of cooling water on industrial equipment prevents overheating, which would lead to wear and downtime. Flow measurement also prevents overflows, leaks, and pressure issues that could lead to accidents or equipment damage.

Ensure product quality

A water flow gauge quickly detects loss of flow, preventing product issues. For instance, when welding tips get too hot, the quality of the weld declines, leading to premature part failure.

Conserve resources

Industrial facilities can identify and reduce water wastage, leading to cost savings on water bills and potential wastewater treatment expenses.

Types of flow meters for water

Industrial flow meters used for water include:

• Magnetic-inductive (magmeters)
• Ultrasonic
• Vortex
• Mechatronic
• Thermal insertion

Water flow meter: Digital vs. mechanical

Digital water flow meters, or electronic meters, measure and display flow rate values. They contain electrical components internally using various types of sensor technology to detect flow.

Mechanical models contain moving parts such as, gears, rotors, impellers, or turbines to measure flow. Typically, digital meters require power but require less maintenance.

How to choose a flow meter for water

Consider the following specifications when choosing a water flow meter:

Type of water

Conductive water (>20µs/cm), deionized water, potable water, etc.

Flow rate

The minimum and maximum water flow rates you're measuring.

Pipe size

The size of the water pipe determines the required process connection.

The type of water is important because certain flow technologies only work with certain media. For example, magnetic-inductive technology won't work with non-conductive media. Also, water flow meters used with potable water require approvals.

FAQs

What is the life expectancy of a water flow meter?

The life expectancy of a water flow meter depends on the technology, application, proper installation, and environment. The data sheet provides specifics. A properly-installed water flow meter could have a life expectancy, or mean time to failure (MTTF), of over 100 years.

Do water flow meters need to be calibrated?

The calibration schedule of water flow meters can depend on the flow meter manufacturer or the customer’s plant requirements. Calibrating water flow meters periodically ensures accuracy and reliability.

How accurate are ultrasonic flow meters?

Ultrasonic flow meters are very accurate. Their accuracy rating range is +/- 2%.

How accurate are magnetic-inductive flow meters?

Magnetic-inductive flow meters are very accurate. Their accuracy rating range is +/- 1%.

Does flow rate stay constant in a pipe?

Flow rate in a pipe can vary for a wide range of reasons:

• Pressure differential
• Valves, pumps, and other flow control devices
• Pipe diameter or the presence of bends or restrictions in pipes
• Fluid properties
• Obstructions or blockages