Why Use a Rotameter (Variable Area Flow Meter) to Measure Gas or Liquid Flow

Brooks Instrument variable area flow meter family of products includes the Sho-Rate, GT1600, MT3809, and MT3750 Series.

What is a rotameter? A rotameter (variable area flow meter) is a flow meter that measures the volumetric flow of liquids and gases. There is no difference between a rotameter and a flow meter, and these terms are interchangeable. Inside a flow meter, a gas or liquid moves a float until it reaches equilibrium - the technique to measure the flow rate. A user can easily read the gas or liquid flow rate from either a scale next to the tube or a scale on the tube. Variable area flow meter applications extend across industries because it was and still is an economical way of measuring very low to high flow rates. Brooks Instrument flow experts often ask users why they select flow meters. Their top six responses below explain why a rotameter continues to be successful.

1. No external power required – Rotameters are mechanical devices that do not require power to provide gas or liquid flow measurement. Since power isn’t necessary, users install rotameters in hazardous and remote areas where it is expensive to supply power.
2. You can see the process – Users can easily read the flow measurement and look into their process. For example, does the process look dirty or cloudy? If so, the filters may need to be changed. Also, is the process the correct colour? Are there bubbles in the liquid?
3. Rotameters are cost effective – Both rotameter price and function contribute to savings on the job. Rotameters can be installed with other flow measurement technologies and can also be used to complement each other at an economical price.
4. Simple to install and maintain – Install rotameters by connecting the process line to the inlet and the outlet. Make sure the meter is vertical prior to full operation.
5. Low pressure drop – Most small rotameters have only a few inches of water column pressure drop, meaning rotameters are often installed in many places in the process. Small pressure drops mean smaller pumps!
6. Repeatability – Given the same process conditions, a rotameter will accurately repeat the flow measurement day after day.

These six features and benefits demonstrate how rotameters will continue to be important products to measure gas and liquid flow now and in the future. An application note on wastewater treatment plants demonstrates how variable area flow meters work in this process.