Paddle & Turbine Meters
Paddle Wheel
Method
Paddle-wheel meters utilise a traditional measurement method where liquid flows past a small wheel with large blades, causing the wheel to spin. Each revolution generates a pulse that is sent to a counter. These meters are easily installed into a tapping point in the pipework, making them simple to set up. The turbine’s design ensures only half of it is exposed to the flow, creating uneven pressure on the blades and ensuring consistent spinning.
Advantages
- Suitable for a wide range of liquids
- Cost-effective for large pipe sizes
- Easy to install
Disadvantages
- Requires clean, filtered, or strained liquids
- Can seize or clog, though this doesn’t affect flow rates
Turbine
Method
Turbine flowmeters are ideal for small line sizes where paddle wheels aren’t feasible. They replace a small section of the pipework and contain a turbine with its axis aligned with the flow. As the liquid passes through, it pushes the curved fins of the turbine, causing it to spin. The speed of the spin corresponds to the flow rate, which is detected by an internal proximity sensor and converted into a pulse, indicating the rate of flow.
Advantages
- Suitable for a wide range of liquids
- Accurate at low flow rates
Disadvantages
- Requires clean, filtered, or strained liquids
- Can seize or clog, though this doesn’t affect flow rates
