If a magnetic flow meter displays a zero reading, which parameter is most likely too low?

If a magnetic flow meter displays a zero reading, which parameter is most likely too low?

• A. Fluid density
• B. Fluid viscosity
• C. Fluid conductivity
• D. Fluid color

Answer: (C)

Magnetic flow meters generate a signal from the fluid moving through a magnetic field, and that signal must travel through the liquid via its conductivity. If the fluid isn’t conductive enough, the induced voltage between the electrodes is too weak to detect, so the meter can read as a zero. Density and viscosity affect how the fluid flows, but they don’t determine whether a measurable magnetic signal is produced. Color has no impact on electrical conductivity. So, the parameter most likely too low is fluid conductivity.

Magnetic flow meters generate a signal from the fluid moving through a magnetic field, and that signal must travel through the liquid via its conductivity. If the fluid isn’t conductive enough, the induced voltage between the electrodes is too weak to detect, so the meter can read as a zero. Density and viscosity affect how the fluid flows, but they don’t determine whether a measurable magnetic signal is produced. Color has no impact on electrical conductivity. So, the parameter most likely too low is fluid conductivity.