Flow transmitters provide electronic data signals such as frequencies, pulses and analog current and voltage outputs to measure the flow levels of air, gases or hot and cool liquids. Analog currents communicate signals over long distances, while analog voltages produce continuous measurements of liquid or gas flow. Flow transmitter signal outputs that involve pulse and frequency run via pulse width modulation, or PWM, amplitude modulation and frequency modulation, better known as AM and FM.

Buy flow transmitters that operate with mass, volume and velocity meters. Flow transmitters that use these meters measure according to electromagnetic, ultrasonic, positive displacement and true mass flow techniques. Electromagnetic meters conduct liquid while energized coils form a magnetic field around the device's tube. Ultrasonic meters measure according to time, while positive displacement meters divide liquid flow to be counted in increments. A true mass flow transmitter calculates mass versus the rate of flow. Characteristics that define flow transmitters include the maximum operating pressure, operating temperature and fluid temperature.

1. Find flow transmitters suppliers that feature products for measuring and analyzing.

2. Buy flow transmitters with varying output signals at a fraction of the cost.

3. Use research and development services if you design custom flow transmitters.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get electrical output and liquid flow monitoring from flow transmitters suppliers

Flow transmitters are appropriate for operating with industrial equipment and applications, including heat exchangers, compressors and filtration processes.

I recommend: Flow transmitters distributors Orange Research offers products with flow rates of up to 30 gallons per minute. Distributors of flow transmitters such as George Fischer Piping Systems sell battery and sensor-powered devices. ABB also manufactures flow transmitters for monitoring the volume flow of liquids, gases and steam.

Buy from flow transmitters distributors that offer low-cost equipment

Flow transmitters and related instruments can still give accurate flow measurement and control readings regardless of cost.

I recommend: Dwyer Instruments features flow transmitters that install easily and operate in temperatures ranging from 32 to 122 degrees F. Emerson Process Management also distributes flow transmitters at competitive prices.

Look to engineering services for custom-designed flow transmitters

Research, development and engineering services help you build or distribute top-quality flow transmitters.

I recommend: Sensortechnics offers application engineering, prototyping and machining services for products such as flow transmitters. Sierra Instruments also provides technical support, engineering and modification services for products that include flow transmitters.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Flow transmitters based on mass, velocity and volume use DP meter technology for measuring and analyzing data. Flow nozzles, orifice plates, cone devices and tubes are examples of DP meters.
• •  Semiconductor, environmental, medical, water treatment and chemical processing are some of the industries that commonly use flow transmitters and related equipment.