Hydraulic flow meters measure the linear, nonlinear, mass, and volumetric flow rate of hydraulic fluids. The three parts of a hydraulic flow meter are the device, transducer, and transmitter. The transducer senses the movement of the hydraulic fluid, while the transmitter produces a flow signal from the transducer’s sensed signal. The calculation of the volume and flow is based on the concept that the passing fluid volume is proportional to the cross-sectional area and the fluid velocity. Read More…
Leading Manufacturers
Sierra Instruments
Monterey, CA | 831-373-0200Sierra manufacturers high performance mass flow meters and controllers for nearly any gas, liquid or steam. Customers choose Sierra when they need an accurate and repeatable flow measurement, short delivery lead times, expert flow advice and long term support. When it matters, choose Sierra. Visit www.sierrainstruments.com.
SIKA USA
Sturtevant, WI | 262-886-2695SIKA is a developer and manufacturer of flow control products and a wide variety of other measuring and monitoring systems. Our inventory includes flow sensors, flow meters, flow switches, and many more. We know that flow solutions aren't one-size-fits-all, which is why we provide consultation and flow management solutions that are individualized and customized to your requirements. When you choose SIKA, you will receive efficient, durable products and customer service tailored to your needs.
Tek-Trol LLC
Crystal Lake, IL | 847-857-6076Tek-Trol LLC is one of the industry's longest-running and most experienced flow meter manufacturers. Our passionate, highly skilled workers and our advanced technology allow us to make the best metal fabrications in the industry. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction make us a preferred choice for companies looking for flow meters. We are focused on continually improving our products and our service, so you are only ever getting the best from us.
Burkert USA Corporation
Huntersville, NC | 800-325-1405The flow meters that we are able to provide will withstand the tests of time in order to provide a long lasting value! We have locations in thirty five countries worldwide and we are dedicated to being wherever you need us to be! We have the knowledge and the capability to work with you closely in order to come up with the perfect product to suit your needs! Visit our website today to learn more about what we may do for you!
MAG Flow Meters
Salinas, CA | 831-884-3109MAG Flow Meters has been a premier supplier of flow meters for more than 25 years. With our hard work and dedication, we are able to provide high-quality products and competitive prices. Over the years, we have continued to grow and expand, raising industry standards in the process. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes us a premier flow-meter industry leader.
What is Flow?
Measuring flow is essential to perfecting and improving the efficiency of a process and is a part of the dynamics and mechanics of fluids. It involves the movement of fluids subjected to unbalanced forces, which continue the motion of fluids as long as they remain unbalanced. Fluids measured by hydraulic flow meters are incompressible, meaning their density does not change when an external force is applied.
Flow is the measurement of the volume of a fluid as it passes a fixed point at an established unit of time. For hydraulic applications, flow is calculated in liters or gallons per minute. Fluid flow is the foundation of hydraulic systems and must be monitored carefully since hydraulic fluids transfer energy from one part of the system to another.
Functions of Hydraulic Fluids
Since not all hydraulic systems are the same, their fluids are chosen following the needs of an application. The properties of hydraulic fluids include viscosity, lubrication, demulsibility (the ability to release water), and chemical and environmental stability. Hydraulic fluids have five functions:
Power Generation
In a hydraulic system, the incompressible fluid transfers energy from one point to another to generate power. The pump initiates fluid flow, and pressure develops at the point of restriction.
Contaminants
One of the primary functions of hydraulic fluid is to remove contaminants, which can damage the system or reduce its productivity. The flow of hydraulic fluid removes any forms of foreign particles by moving them to the filtration system.
Lubrication
The constant movement of the various components of a hydraulic system creates friction that can cause wear and failure. The smooth flow of hydraulic fluids reduces friction by creating a lubricating film.
Sealing the System
Because all hydraulic systems operate under pressure, each system must have a tight seal. The proper hydraulic fluid forms an additional seal between mechanical parts.
Heat Transfer
The friction of hydraulic components produces heat that has to be cooled. The smooth and controlled flow of hydraulic fluids carries away any generated heat.
Types of Hydraulic Flow Meters
The selection of a hydraulic flow meter is a critical aspect of a system's function since an incorrect choice can lead to errors in diagnosis. The factors to be examined when making the selection are fluid properties, operating condition of the system, flow measurement, accuracy, effect of the flow meter on the fluid and vice versa, and cost. As with all flow meters, there are several types of hydraulic flow meters to choose from, with each type designed to perform with a certain type of hydraulic fluid.
Variable Orifice Flow Meter
A variable orifice hydraulic flow meter has a piston or ring connected to a spring. The force of the fluid displaces the piston or ring, which increases the size of the flow meter's orifice. The flow rate is indicated on an analog readout connected by a magnet to the piston or ring.
Gear Flow Meter
Gear type hydraulic flow meters are types of positive displacement flow meters that look like gear motors with intermeshed, rotating gears. The fluid flow rotates the gears, one of which is connected to the transducer. An increase or decrease in the fluid flow causes the gears to rotate faster or slower, providing the flow rate reading. More accurate gear type hydraulic flow meters have two transducers that measure direction and improve resolution.
Turbine Flow Meter
Turbine hydraulic flow meters are a very common type of mechanical flow meter. The turbine rotor is placed in a shaft between flow straighteners, and the flow of the hydraulic fluid turns the turbines. The transducer, connected to the turbine rotors, senses the movement of the blades, which is the flow rate.
Choosing the Correct Hydraulic Flow Meter Manufacturer
To ensure the most constructive outcome when purchasing hydraulic flow meters from a hydraulic flow meter manufacturer, it is important to compare several companies using our directory of hydraulic flow meter manufacturers. Each hydraulic flow meter manufacturer has a business profile page highlighting their areas of experience and capabilities, along with a contact form to directly communicate with the manufacturer for more information or request a quote. Review each hydraulic flow meter company website using our patented website previewer to quickly learn what each business specializes in. Then, use our simple RFQ form to contact multiple hydraulic flow meter businesses with the same form.
