Which device is used to measure flow by generating pulses as a turbine rotates?

Which device is used to measure flow by generating pulses as a turbine rotates?

• A. Rotameter
• B. Turbine flow meter
• C. Ultrasonic flow meter
• D. Venturi meter

Answer: (B)

Measuring flow by generating pulses as a turbine rotates relies on turning the fluid’s motion into a rapid series of pulses that can be counted. A turbine flow meter places a small rotor with blades in the flow. As the liquid moves, it spins the rotor; a sensor detects each blade passing and produces a pulse for each revolution (or for each blade). By counting pulses over time, you determine the volumetric flow rate, with the pulse frequency directly proportional to flow. This type of meter is a velocity-based instrument because it derives flow from the fluid’s speed interacting with the rotating turbine, rather than from a pressure drop or a displacement. This method offers good linearity and accuracy, plus a relatively low pressure drop, making it a common choice for clean liquids and precise flow measurements. It’s important to note it works best with relatively clean fluids and requires proper straight-pipe runs to avoid swirl or turbulence that could skew readings.

Measuring flow by generating pulses as a turbine rotates relies on turning the fluid’s motion into a rapid series of pulses that can be counted. A turbine flow meter places a small rotor with blades in the flow. As the liquid moves, it spins the rotor; a sensor detects each blade passing and produces a pulse for each revolution (or for each blade). By counting pulses over time, you determine the volumetric flow rate, with the pulse frequency directly proportional to flow. This type of meter is a velocity-based instrument because it derives flow from the fluid’s speed interacting with the rotating turbine, rather than from a pressure drop or a displacement.

This method offers good linearity and accuracy, plus a relatively low pressure drop, making it a common choice for clean liquids and precise flow measurements. It’s important to note it works best with relatively clean fluids and requires proper straight-pipe runs to avoid swirl or turbulence that could skew readings.