Airflow Sensors

Flow sensors, also referred to as flow meters or flow indicators, are the "current" stars of the measurement world. They help us formulate efficient processes, optimise resource usage, and maintain the perfect balance through measuring the movement of fluids and mediums, like water or air, in various applications. They work like fluid detectives, detecting the flow rate and volume with certain applications to provide valuable information for controlling, monitoring, and optimising processes.

Different Types of Flow Rate Detection Sensors and Meters

There are several types, each with its own unique way of working.

**Differential Pressure Flow Sensors: **These sensors create a pressure drop in the fluid and measure the resulting difference. They compare the pressure upstream and downstream of an obstruction, calculating the flow rate. They're commonly used in HVAC systems and industrial processes. Versatile and suitable for many liquids and gases, providing accurate flow measurements.
Turbine Flow Sensors: Turbine sensors work like tiny windmills in the fluid stream. As the fluid flows, it spins the turbine, and the speed of rotation is proportional to the flow rate. These sensors are widely used in water utilities, irrigation systems, and even fuel consumption monitoring.
Electromagnetic Flow Sensors: These sensors employ the power of electromagnetism to measure flow. A magnetic field is created perpendicular to the fluid's direction, and as the conductive fluid flows, it generates a voltage proportional to the velocity. They are unaffected by pressure or temperature changes and find applications in water treatment, chemical processes, and wastewater management. Best for conductive liquids, offering high accuracy and reliability.
Ultrasonic Flow Sensors: These sensors use sound waves to detect the flow. They emit ultrasonic signals through the fluid and measure the time it takes for the waves to travel upstream and downstream. By comparing these times, they calculate the flow rate. These sensors are particularly handy for large pipes and ducts. Capable of handling a wide range of liquids and gases, including those with particulates.
Vortex Flow Sensors: Just as a whirlpool form when water flows past an obstacle, vortex flow sensors take advantage of the "twist" in the flow. They place a bluff body in the fluid stream, and the frequency of vortices formed is directly related to the flow rate. These sensors excel in measuring gas flow and find applications in HVAC, chemical plants, and even beer brewing!
Digital Flow Meters: Digital or electronic flow meters provide accurate and real-time flow rate measurement with a digital display for easy reading. They are versatile and find applications in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and food processing.

Check out our data logger guide and guide to digital multimeters for more resources on sensors, automation, and control gear.

What Flow Detection Sensors and Meters Can Help to Monitor

Flow sensors and meters can gauge and monitor the flow of various fluids, including:

Water: In water treatment plants, irrigation systems, and industrial processes.
Air: In HVAC systems, cleanrooms, and pneumatic systems.
Gases: In chemical processes, gas pipelines, and environmental monitoring.
Steam: In power generation, food processing, and industrial heating systems.
Chemicals: In chemical processing plants, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and laboratories.
Petroleum Products: In refineries, oil pipelines, and fuel distribution systems.

Industrial Applications of Flow Rate Sensors and Meters

Flow sensors and meters find applications in numerous industries across Singapore:

Water and Wastewater Management: Electromagnetic flow meters are often used in water treatment plants for accurate flow measurement and monitoring.
Oil and Gas Industry: Ultrasonic flow sensors and turbine flow sensors are employed in oil and gas pipelines for flow rate measurement and leak detection.
Chemical Industry: Vortex flow sensors and electromagnetic flow meters are used in chemical plants for precise measurement and control of chemical processes.
Pharmaceutical Industry: Digital flow meters and ultrasonic flow sensors ensure accurate dosing and control in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Food and Beverage Industry: Turbine flow sensors and electromagnetic flow meters monitor, gauge, and control the flow of liquids in food and beverage production.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): Differential pressure flow sensors and vortex flow sensors regulate and optimise airflow in HVAC systems.

How Order and Delivery Works at RS Singapore

As a trusted supplier and distributor of automation & control gear in Singapore, including proximity sensors and pressure sensors, RS carries renowned flow detection sensor brands such as Gems Sensors, Honeywell, and Endress+Hauser, to help you find the right equipment for your industrial needs.

To order digital flow sensors and other sensor products from RS, just follow these steps: