Paddle Wheel Flow Meter Principle
A paddle wheel flow meter, also known as a turbine flow meter, is a type of flow meter that uses a spinning paddle or impeller to measure the flow rate of a liquid or gas. The paddle wheel is mounted on a shaft that extends into the flow stream, and as the fluid passes through the meter, it causes the paddle wheel to rotate. The rotational speed of the paddle wheel is proportional to the flow rate, so by measuring the speed, it is possible to calculate the flow rate.
There are two main types of paddle wheel flow meters: in-line and insertion. In-line paddle wheel flow meters are installed in the pipeline, with the paddle wheel oriented perpendicular to the flow direction. Insertion paddle wheel flow meters are inserted into the pipeline through an opening and have the paddle wheel oriented parallel to the flow direction.
The paddle wheel flow meter works on the principle of momentum transfer. As the fluid flows through the meter, it imparts some of its momentum to the paddle wheel, causing it to rotate. The rotational speed of the paddle wheel is proportional to the flow rate, so by measuring the speed, it is possible to calculate the flow rate.
Paddle wheel flow meters are widely used in a variety of applications, including water and wastewater treatment, chemical processing, and food and beverage processing. They are known for their simplicity, reliability, and low cost. However, they are not suitable for all applications, and in some cases, other types of flow meters may be more suitable.
Please contact us to discuss your application
