Flow Measurement in Process Industries

Flow measurement in process industries is critical to ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance across a wide range of sectors, including food and beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical, oil and gas, and renewable energy.

Whether monitoring the dosage of active pharmaceutical ingredients or ensuring precise volumes during beer production, flow measurement systems are fundamental to product quality and process optimisation. In regulated industries like oil and gas, entire departments are often dedicated to metering, given the financial and legal implications of incorrect flow measurement.

This article explores how flow measurement in process industries works, what technologies are used, and how BM Engineering Supplies provides expert flow solutions from leading brands like Bürkert and Siemens.

What is a Flow Meter Used For?

Flow meters are used to monitor the volume or mass flow of liquids and gases through a system. In industrial applications, their primary purpose is to:

• Optimise process control and efficiency

• Guarantee accurate batching and dosing

• Ensure consistent product quality

• Prevent process downtime and waste

• Improve overall profitability

At BM Engineering Supplies, we offer a variety of flow meters and process instrumentation tailored to each industry’s needs.

Common industry applications include:

• Food and Beverage

• Pharmaceutical

• Chemical

• Brewing and Distilling

• Oil and Gas

• Renewable Energy

• Pulp and Paper

The Basic Theory of Flow Measurement

Most flow measurement in process industries is based on a fundamental principle: if the cross-sectional area of a pipe remains constant, then the flow rate (Q) is calculated as:

Flow rate (Q) = Area × Velocity

However, selecting the right type of flow meter depends on numerous variables, such as:

• Fluid type (liquid or gas)

• Presence of solids or particulates

• Temperature and pressure conditions

• Accuracy requirements

• Hygienic standards in industries like food or pharma

BM Engineering helps customers choose the ideal flow measurement technology for their specific application.

Types of Flow Measurement Devices

✔️ Coriolis Flow Meters

Coriolis meters are commonly used for mass flow measurement. They contain vibrating tubes that deform when fluid flows through them. The degree of deformation is proportional to the mass flow rate, offering extremely accurate and reliable readings.

Available via our instrumentation product range, Coriolis meters are ideal for:

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing

• Chemical processing

• Oil and gas

Advantages:

• Accurate to within ±0.2–0.3%

• Measures mass flow, density, and temperature

• Suitable for multi-phase, high-viscosity, or aggressive media

✔️ Bürkert FLOWave (SAW Technology)

For hygienic applications, the Bürkert FLOWave Type 8098 uses Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) technology to measure volume flow without any internal sensor contact with the fluid.

How it works:
FLOWave uses external sensors to generate and receive surface acoustic waves that pass through the pipe wall. These waves detect changes in flow without compromising product quality or system hygiene.

Benefits:

• No pressure drop or dead space

• Ideal for clean-in-place (CIP) and steam-in-place (SIP) systems

• Lightweight, compact, and easy to install

• Certified for use in food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors

Trusted Flow Instrumentation Brands at BM Engineering

We partner with industry-leading manufacturers to supply reliable and innovative flow solutions:

• Bürkert – Experts in SAW, Coriolis, and process automation

• Siemens – High-performance flow sensors and automation systems

• ADCA – Steam and condensate equipment for flow and pressure control

Browse our full flow meter product range.

Why Choose BM Engineering for Flow Measurement?

✅ Industry expertise across UK process sectors
✅ Authorised suppliers of Bürkert, Siemens, and ADCA
✅ Wide choice of hygienic and industrial-grade flow meters
✅ Support from specification through to installation
✅ UK-wide delivery and service

Get Expert Advice

Need assistance with choosing the best flow measurement solution for your plant or process?

📞 Call us on 0141 762 0657
📧 Email: sales@bmengineering.co.uk
🌐 Visit: www.bmengineering.co.uk

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