Understanding your application consists of knowing the fluid media, media temperature, flow range, and pressure. All electromagnetic flow meters work with conductive liquids only. Flow of compressible fluids (gasses) cannot be measured with electromagnetic flow meters. Whether the fluid media is drinking water or wastewater, the type of electromagnetic meter that would work best for the application can vary based on electrode material and/or the liner or coating of the sensor that comes in contact with the media. Knowing the media being measured is only part of the understanding of the overall application. Some electromagnetic flow meters are affected by fluid temperature and operating pressure. The same electromagnetic flow meter used for a 150-psi application may not work for a 300-psi application. Most electromagnetic flow meter specification sheets indicate the specific pressure and temperature rating of the meter in question. Be sure the meter you select has specifications that will meet your application needs. What are you measuring? There are several considerations that must be known in order to apply an electromagnetic flow meter:
• Is the fluid being measured conductive? If the fluid is not conductive, an electromagnetic flow meter will not work.
• What is your line size? This will determine the cost of the meter.
• Is there proper room to install this meter? Typically an electromagnetic flow meter will have minimum upstream and downstream straight run requirements in order to measure the fluid flow accurately. Flow disturbers must be considered as well —modulating valves, chemical injection points, and anything that would compromise the fluid flow before it’s measured by the electromagnetic flow meter.
• What is the fluid being measured? Is the measured fluid corrosive? Is the measured fluid clean water or wastewater? This is important information to know when evaluating the type of lining in the electromagnetic flow meter. Common liners that are available with today’s electromagnetic flow meters are hard rubber, neoprene, Teflon, Tefzel, and ceramic. However, these types of liners do come with a risk of delamination. An electromagnetic meter with a fusion-bonded liner is recommended to avoid the possibility of delamination issues altogether.