Flow controllers and valves are critical instruments for controlling fluids and liquids in a flow system. However, you need to know about various types of flow controllers and their advantages in the flow system. In this post, we will explain the various types of flow controllers found in the flow systems and their benefits. Read on to gain greater knowledge of these essential devices in a flow system.
Advantages of a liquid flow controller
Several devices are used to measure and control fluids in any flow system or fluid processing plant. Measuring the number of fluids flowing through flow pipelines or into storage tanks ensures that the right quantity and quality are achieved. Flow meters are often mistaken for flow controllers. A flow meter is used to measure the amount of fluid in terms of mass or volume flowing through a pipe, channel, or tube. Flow meters are designed specifically to measure flow rate. Although flow meters and flow controllers are installed in a flow system, they perform different functions.
Advantages
- Flow meters cannot regulate the amount of flow passing through the channel. On the other hand, a flow controller is designed to control the direction and flow rate of fluids passing through the channel. Although flow controllers are specifically designed to regulate flow direction and flow rate, some are designed to also measure flow rate. A flow controller or valve may also have a flow rate measuring component for detecting the amount of flow passing through the pipe.
- Flow meters and flow controller types are available in many kinds. Therefore, it is up to the plant engineer to decide which type is suitable for the flow system. A flow controller can trigger certain functions in a flow system. If the fluid pressure flowing through the pipeline is too high or too low, the flow controller switches on or off a pump or pumps to account for the deficit or reduce pressure.
- Flow controller types are grouped into complex or simple valves. The application requirements determine the complexity of the simplicity of the flow controller. Many flow controllers are designed to adjust themselves automatically. Flow valve automation is determined by the temperature and the pressure flowing through the pipe. Controllers pick up signals or sense flow rates to trigger a certain action. Flow controllers are also known for gauging the fluid’s temperature in enclosed channels or pipes. They function similarly to flow meters.
What are the benefits of a flow controller?
Flow controllers are designed differently to cater to the various flow systems and applications. Among the most popular flow control designs is the motor speed regulator. Flow controllers can affect the energy transfer within a particular flow system at any given point. This is a critical feature when regulating or altering the fluid flow. Since these types of flow controllers are also designed to adjust the speed of the motor, they can also influence the transfer rate of the energy.
Flow Controller Types
Although many flow controllers are available in the market, there are a few commonly used types. Here are some of them:
Globe Valves
Globe flow controller types are used in many industries. They are specifically designed to stop or start flow in a system. It operates in linear motion when controlling fluid in a flow system. The closure is initiated by a plug found inside the flow controller.
Pinch Valves
Pinch valves are designed to regulate slurry fluids flowing in the pipeline. When using this type of flow valve, you only need to pinch rubber-like tubes, which will turn off the flow. Due to their low maintenance cost, the cost of operation is significantly reduced.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are numerous benefits that a flow controller offers in a flow system. Not only do they measure the flow rate of fluid flowing inside a pipe, but they also control the direction and the pressure of the liquid flowing through the pipeline. Proteus Industries are professionals in designing and distributing flow and control meters. Experts will advise you on the right flow controller if you are unsure which one is appropriate for your flow system.