Rotameter operation
Rotameter operation
(OP)
Hello, I am new to this forum and was wondering if anyone can explain the fluid mechanics behind the operation of a rotameter. I am interested in the principle of operation and the science behind it. Can anyone help?
Many thanks
Garybawden
Many thanks
Garybawden
RE: Rotameter operation
It's just an impulse-momentum thing. Not rocket science. Get out your fluid mechanics book and look at the chapter on fluid machines. It's a propeller operating in reverse.
You can also contact the manufacturers of those things, like Halliburton or Brooks; they are usually a lot of help. I have a TON of practical experience with these meters, so just ask if you need any more help.
Thanks!
Pete
P. J. (Pete) Chandler, PE
Principal Engineer
Mechanical, Piping, Thermal, Hydraulics
Processes Unlimited International, Inc.
Bakersfield, California USA
pjchandl@prou.com
RE: Rotameter operation
I'm just a chemie, but havn't you described a turbine meter?
I understand a rotameter as a variable area flowmeter ... like a heavy ball sitting in the bottom of a vertical cone; the cone that gets wider the higher up you go inside of it. Fluid flow coming into the bottom of the cone drags the ball up from the bottom. The cross sectional flow area of the cone increases with height, such that fluid velocity reduces around the ball as the ball rises. Where the ball comes to rest in equilibrium with the moving fluid depends upon the flowrate .. which, for example, is written on the side of a glass rotameter (or magnetic measuring device etc).
Excellent, easily found, description is at: http://www.svce.ac.in/~msubbu/FM-WebBook/Unit-III/Rotameter.htm