flowmeter

(engineering) An instrument used to measure pressure, flow rate, and discharge rate of a liquid, vapor, or gas flowing in a pipe. Also known as fluid meter.

A device that measures the movement of liquid in a pipe. "Invasive" flow meters are coupled into the pipe and derive the flow rate from the rotation of a turbine or paddle wheel that is moved by the liquid.

"Non-invasive" meters use two ultrasonic transducers that clamp on the outside of the pipe at a prescribed distance from each other based on the pipe's composition and diameter. They derive the flow rate based on the transit time of ultrasonic pulses sent from transmitter to receiver. In liquids with high solid or gaseous content, rather than measuring transit time, the amount of frequency shift is detected (see Doppler effect).

Download Computer Desktop Encyclopedia to your iPhone/iTouch

A physical device for measuring the rate of flow of a gas or liquid.

An instrument for monitoring, measuring, or recording the rate of flow, pressure, or discharge of liquids or gasses.

An apparatus for measuring the rate of flow of liquids or gases, particularly anesthetic gases. Called also rotameter.

• Bourdon f. — based on the straightening of a flexible metal tube as gas pressure increases. Has limitations, especially at very low flow rates.