Flow Meter Types Selection Guide

What is a Flow Meter Gauge?

A flow meter is a device used to measure the rate of liquids and gases moving through a pipe or system. Measurements are displayed on a gauge face, provided via an analog readout (dial and pointer), presenting a volumetric measurement (such as gallons per minute or liters per second).

Why Choose Orange Research Flow Meter Solutions?

As a leading manufacturer of flow meters and differential pressure gauges, we design our products for precision, durability, and performance, even in the most demanding environments. Whether you need to monitor flow, level, or filter condition in industries like oil and gas or hydraulics, flow meters offer reliable, easy-to-read measurements that keep your operation running smoothly.

With a wide range of models, materials, and custom options available, the experts at Orange Research will help you find the right fit for your application.

Contact us today to get expert guidance on selecting the ideal differential pressure gauge for your needs.

How do I Select the Right Flow Meter?

Choosing the right flow sensor type for your industrial application ensures accurate measurements, reliable performance, and long-term durability. When selecting a flow meter, key factors to consider include:

• Flow Range: The gauge should cover your system’s operating pressures without exceeding maximum limits.
• Material Compatibility: Select materials that are compatible with the type of gas or liquid you are measuring to prevent corrosion or damage.
• Process Conditions: Consider temperature extremes, vibration, and other environmental factors that may impact a flow measurement tool’s performance.
• Mounting and Connection Style: Choose the right configuration – panel mount or inline, for easier installation and visibility.
• Application Type: Whether you are measuring flow, monitoring filter conditions, or tracking liquid levels, select a gauge that is specifically designed for that task.
• Switch or Transmitter Requirements: If you require remote monitoring or need an alert if flow rates fall outside of normal ranges, consider selecting a flow meter gauge with a switch and/or transmitter.

If you are unsure of which flow meter product is right for your system, reach out us to today.

What are the Benefits of Installing a Flow Meter on My Equipment?

Flow meters provide a variety of benefits for industrial, manufacturing and equipment monitoring including:

• Process Efficiency: Ensuring fluids are delivered at the correct rate, such as in chemical mixing and water treatment, maintaining levels and eliminating overuse.
• Equipment Protection: Preventing damage caused by improper flow rates, ensuring liquids such as coolant and lubricant are correct, and overpressures do not occur due to blockages.
• Shutdown Prevention: Detecting abnormal flow conditions that can lead to leaks, overpressures and failures.
• Compliance: Providing accurate measurement data for environmental and industry regulations.
• Real-Time Control: Giving insight into system levels, allowing equipment to be adjusted and optimized.

With decades of experience designing and manufacturing gas and fluid flow meters, the Orange Research team can advise on the best solution for your application.

Talk to our experts or fill out the form below for support.

What Types of Flow Meters are There?

Our fixed-orifice flow meters are best for low-flow applications. They are able to measure down to 2 GPH, so small changes in flow rate can be seen and users alerted. Because these flow meter gauges use a fixed orifice, users must consider two factors when selecting a flow meter: abrasive fluids and fluids that may leave deposits. This can affect accuracy over time by changing the size of the orifice.

Our variable-area flow meters use a larger orifice and a movable flow cone, which reduces the potential for clogging. We offer specially designed flow meter gauge cones for use under harsh conditions where dirt and debris may be present, such as in wastewater or construction site environments. The variable-area sensor in these flow meters allows for readings on a linear scale, often preferred over square root meters.

Our differential pressure flow meter models have directly connected, large-throated, non-clogging flow nozzles. The flow nozzle design is a long life, wear-resistant element that provides many years of service. Our differential pressure flow meters are known worldwide as the rugged, “install them and forget them” type of flow meters.

Our 30000 Series is a fixed set-point flow switch. Their compact size and basic profile results in low-cost flow switches that can be mounted where space is limited. This makes them popular for OEM applications where simple flow switch actuation is required.

Low Flow System Measurement

• Monitoring 0-4 to 0-40 gallons per hour or 1.5-5 standard cubic feet per minute.
• Often used to replace rotameters.
• Fixed orifice sensors.
• Check out our 2021 FG/FGS flow meter model.

PVC Flow Meters for Caustic or Corrosive Liquids

• Monitoring 0-1 to 0-10 gallons per hour.
• Ideal for installations where aluminum, stainless steel or brass are not appropriate.
• Check out our 2221 PVC for flow applications up to 2 GPM, and 2321 PVC for systems up to 10GPM.

High Flow System Measurement

• Monitoring 0-1 to 0-30 gallons per minute or 1.5-10 to 1-100 standard cubic feet per minute.
• Horizontal and vertical installation options.
• Variable area sensor.
• Check out our 2223FG/FGS series for applications up to 5 GPM, and our 2423FG/FGS models for systems requiring flow rates up to 30GPM.

Inline Piston Flow Switch for Flow  Monitoring

• Ideal for portable systems where shock and vibration are common.
• Often used in lubricating systems, chillers, coolers and heat exchangers with small space requirements.
• Check our flow switches.

Differential Pressure Flow Measurement

• An integrated differential pressure and flow gauge, measuring the flow difference between two points.
• Often used to detect clogged filters.
• Check out our 2520 FG/FGS for flow applications up to 40 GPM, and 2530 FG/FGS for systems up to 200GPM.

Optional Dial, Electrical & Switch Features

• Adjustable switches can be added to flow meters to trigger alarms, alerts & safety shutoffs.
• Transmitters can be added with PLC / SCADA integration via analog output to provide readings on control panels or in remote locations.
• Dial faces ranging from 1” to 6” in diameter, with custom options also available.
• Check out our dial case & mounting options.