Choosing a flowmeter: For fluids whose flow measurement should be largely insensitive to changes in density, viscosity, and velocity profile, the most suitable instrument is a:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Magnetic flowmeter

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
In process plants, flowmeters may suffer accuracy loss if fluid properties such as density and viscosity change. Selecting a technology that inherently decouples measurement from these properties saves recalibration effort and improves robustness.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Fluid is electrically conductive (requirement for magnetic flowmeters).
  • Measurement range covers laminar to turbulent regimes.
  • Objective: insensitive to density, viscosity, and velocity profile distortions.


Concept / Approach:
By Faraday’s law, a magnetic flowmeter induces a voltage proportional to volumetric flow rate (E ∝ B * L * v). Since volumetric flow does not require calibration against density or viscosity, and since the meter has no obstruction (full-bore design), profile effects are minimized with appropriate straight runs. Therefore, mag meters excel when property independence is desired.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Establish property goals: low sensitivity to density/viscosity/profile.Map technologies: DP meters and turbines depend on Reynolds number; pitot depends on density and profile.Select magnetic flowmeter as the robust choice for conductive liquids.


Verification / Alternative check:
Factory calibrations commonly remain valid over wide property variations for mag meters; many water/wastewater and slurry services rely on this advantage.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Pitot/Flow nozzle: Differential pressure scales with density and is viscosity/Re-dependent.
  • Turbine: K-factor shifts with viscosity/Re and profile; moving parts add sensitivity.
  • Rotameter: Float position depends on density/viscosity; profile variations matter.


Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting conductivity requirement; non-conductive fluids (e.g., hydrocarbons) are unsuitable for mag meters.


Final Answer:
Magnetic flowmeter

More Questions from Process Control and Instrumentation

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion