Orifice Flowmeter Application Analysis: The Modern Value of a Classic Technology

2025-08-01
 Orifice Flowmeter Application Analysis: The Modern Value of a Classic Technology

The orifice flowmeter, a classic differential pressure flowmeter, remains crucial in industries like petroleum, chemical, and power generation due to its simplicity, reliability, and versatility. This article analyzes its core applications and advantages.

1. Oil and Gas Industry: Ideal for High-Pressure, High-Temperature

Orifice flowmeters excel in:

  • Natural Gas Metering: Long-distance pipelines (compliant with AGA/ISO).
  • Crude Oil Custody Transfer: High accuracy (up to Class 0.5).
  • Refinery Measurements: Handles pressures up to 42 MPa and temperatures over 400°C.

2. Chemical Industry: Cost-Effective for Corrosive Media

For acids, alkalis, and organic solvents:

  • Corrosion-Resistant Materials: Hastelloy or tantalum plates.
  • Clog-Free Design: Integrated wedge design for viscous liquids.
  • No Power Supply Required: Suitable for explosion-proof areas.

Economic Advantage: Maintenance costs are one-third of electromagnetic flowmeters, ideal for large diameters.

3. Power Industry: Classic for Steam Measurement

In thermal power plants:

  • Main and Reheat Steam Monitoring.
  • Feed Water Flow Control: Works with condensate traps.
  • ASME PTC6 Compliance: Special nozzle-type plates minimize pressure drop.

4. Municipal and Environmental Protection: Large-Diameter Water Metering

  • Sewage Treatment: Inlet and outlet metering (DN3000+).
  • Heating Water Monitoring: For heating networks.
  • Hydraulic Project Metering.

Innovative Use: Intelligent differential pressure transmitters with 4-20mA + HART output.

5. Selection and Application Key Points

  • Media Compatibility: Not for slurries with over 5% solids.
  • Installation: Requires a straight pipe section of 10° before and 5° after.
  • Cost Analysis: Smaller diameters are pricier; diameters above DN200 are more cost-effective.



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