Everything You Need To Know About Mass Flow Meters

Everything You Need To Know About Mass Flow Meters

Guest Blog

You may have heard the term mass flow meter, but do you know what it is? These devices are used in a variety of industries and for many different reasons. You can find small, simplified versions of them in your own vehicle, and they are also used in the nuclear industry for safety purposes. Here’s everything you might need to know about these devices, including the different types, how they work, and what types of results they provide.

What Are Mass Flow Meters?

Mass air flow meters are devices that measure the speed at which gas or liquid flows based on its surface heat. The device has heat sensors inside the flow section or on the outside of the chamber that are at a fixed point and measure the gas or fluid as it passes. They are capable of measuring this rate with high accuracy and are often used to rate a process performance or to determine efficiency.

How Do They Work?

There are different types of mass flow meters, and each one of them works differently but provides the same results. Some measure the direct flow. This measures the exact flow of a gas or liquid and does not take into consideration any outside factors such as temperature or density. This type of measurement must reference specific calibrations to remain accurate.

For bodies that can’t be measured directly, indirect mass flow measurements are taken. This method involves using calculations and formulas to determine the reading. The flow is determined using different sensors and calculations. Learn more about these calculations at www.sciencedirect.com. This type of reading is only used when a direct measurement is not possible because it is less accurate.

The Coriolis principle is another type of measurement. It measures the flow of gas or liquid that is moving. The material goes through a vibrating tube, and a linear output is created that reflects the flow measurement. This method can be used on any type of liquid and gas to get accurate readings.

What Are They Used For?

These devices are used to do exactly what their name suggests, measure airflow. They are used by industrial plants and vehicles. Anything that has an engine that pushes a gas or liquid can have a mass air flow meter or sensor. They serve different purposes depending on the machine or engine they are connected to.

In factories, they can be used to determine efficiency and performance. In a vehicle, they can be used to measure the air or fuel in an engine’s combustion chamber to reduce knocks and other problems. They can also be used to test for leaks. Click here to learn more about these devices.

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Are They Expensive?

The price of these sensors depends on the type you purchase. Smaller meters such as those used on vehicles can range from $100 to $500. Thermal air flow meters and those used for commercial or more scientific purposes can cost several thousands of dollars.

What Are The Different Types?

There are several different types of mass air flow meters, and each type can be used for a different purpose and provide a different type of reading. Some processes only work with a certain type, and others allow for different measurements and can be used with any type of sensor. The most common types include,

  • Coriolis MFM
  • Thermal MFM
  • Impeller Turbine MFM
  • Twin Turbine MFM
  • Calorimetric MFM
  • Peak MFM
  • Gyroscopic MFM
  • Orifice Plate MFM
  • Fuel MFM
  • Water MFM
  • Digital MFM
  • Microfluidic Thermal MFM

How Do You Read Them?

A mass flow meter can be read a few different ways. Some have digital screens that present the results digitally. Others have blades that point to the measurement on a dial. Many commercial meters send the results directly to a computer system that either prints or reads out the results to the person monitoring the reading or testing the airflow.

Can They Go Bad?

They do go bad at times and may need to be tested regularly. Commercial meters are designed to last many years, but their life expectancy often depends on the type of material they are measuring and how often they are used. They are often replaced regularly, and many plants keep several on hand so they can be changed out quickly when they go bad.

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