Membrane flowmeter is an instrument that uses the motion of the membrane to measure fluid flow rate. With the acceleration of urbanization and the popularization of gas supply systems, gas metering has become an important link. Membrane flowmeter has become an important instrument in the field of gas metering due to its simple structure, low price, high measurement accuracy, and easy installation and maintenance.

Definition and working principle of membrane flowmeter

Definition: Membrane flowmeter, also known as membrane flowmeter, is a measuring unit that uses a fixed volume measuring chamber inside the casing to calculate the flow rate by measuring the number of times the fluid passes through the measuring chamber.

Working principle: The gas meters commonly used in our homes are membrane flow meters, also known as membrane gas meters. They are mainly composed of a housing, a measuring chamber, a distribution chamber, a connecting rod mechanism, and a counter. Each meter has two measuring boxes inside, which are equipped with synthetic rubber membranes. Each measuring box is divided into two measuring chambers.

Gas is introduced into a metering chamber with a certain volume and discharged through the repeated movement of the membrane. The number of movements of the membrane is recorded and converted into flow data.

Specifically, when the measured gas enters from the meter inlet, fills the meter chamber, and is controlled by the slide valve inside the meter to enter the metering chamber. Each measuring chamber is divided into two parts by a membrane, and the membrane in the measuring chamber is driven back and forth by the gas pressure difference on both sides of the membrane, compressing the gas on one side of the membrane in the measuring chamber and flowing out through the outlet of the meter through a slide valve.

At the same time, relying on the inertia of the rotating mechanism, the slide valve moves back and forth, and drives the gear of the measuring unit to rotate to complete the recording of gas flow rate. Due to the inability of one measuring chamber to discharge gas, there are usually two measuring chambers that alternate between inflation and exhaust.

Application characteristics of membrane flowmeter

1. High measurement accuracy: The diaphragm flowmeter accurately calculates the flow rate by measuring the number of movements of the diaphragm, thus having high measurement accuracy. This is very important for gas users who require precise metering.
2. Wide applicability: Membrane flowmeter is suitable for various low-pressure gas systems, including natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, etc. Its measurement range is wide and can meet the gas metering needs of different users.
3. Easy to install and maintain: The structure of the membrane flowmeter is relatively simple, and installation and maintenance are very convenient. This reduces the operating costs for users and improves the reliability of the gas system.
4. Affordable price: Compared with other types of gas flow meters, membrane flow meters have relatively lower prices. This makes it the preferred choice for many residential and small business users.

Application of membrane flowmeter in gas metering field

1. Application scope: Membrane flowmeter has a wide range of applications in the field of gas metering, especially in residential and small commercial users. Among residential users, membrane flow meters are usually installed at the inlet of gas meters to measure the amount of gas used in daily household use.

This helps users understand their gas consumption situation and plan their gas usage reasonably; For small commercial users such as restaurants, cafes, etc., membrane flow meters are also suitable.

These users usually have high requirements for the accuracy of gas metering, and membrane flow meters precisely meet this demand; Gas companies also widely use membrane flow meters for gas metering. By installing membrane flow meters, gas companies can accurately understand users’ gas usage and carry out reasonable charging and management.

2. Measurement characteristics: The membrane flowmeter is suitable for measuring small flow, low-pressure gas. Generally speaking, users with relatively low gas pressure (usually between 5kPa and 20kPa) will prefer membrane flow meters when the maximum gas flow rate is 40m ³/h, while it is not recommended to use them when the maximum flow rate reaches 100m ³/h.
3. Technological innovation: With the continuous progress of technology, the membrane flowmeter is also constantly innovating. For example, the widely used IoT remote meter can achieve remote meter reading, remote control, and temperature compensation functions, greatly improving the efficiency and accuracy of gas metering.

Flow Meter Selection Guide

1. Measurement range: Select the appropriate measurement range according to actual needs to ensure that the flowmeter can accurately measure the required flow rate.
2. Accuracy level: Select the appropriate accuracy level according to the measurement requirements to meet the accuracy requirements for flow measurement.
3. Working environment: Consider the working environment of the flowmeter, including factors such as temperature, pressure, humidity, etc., to ensure that the flowmeter can work properly.
4. Brand reputation: Choose flow meters produced by well-known brands and reputable manufacturers to ensure product quality and after-sales service.

In summary, membrane flowmeter is a widely used instrument in the field of gas metering. Its simple structure, low price, and high accuracy make it a commonly used gas metering instrument among residential and small commercial users. When choosing a membrane flowmeter, it is necessary to select the appropriate model and specifications according to actual needs, and ensure that it can meet the working environment and measurement requirements.