An orifice plate flow meter measures liquid, gas, or steam flow by creating a controllable pressure drop across a precisely machined plate. This differential pressure device is favored for its ruggedness, cost effectiveness, and straightforward installation in demanding industrial environments.
Facilities choose this technology when they need reliable volume or mass flow data for custody transfer, process control, or regulatory reporting without complex moving parts. The following sections outline core operating principles, common applications, and practical guidance for specifying and maintaining an orifice plate flow meter.
| Key Parameter | Description | Typical Range | Impact on Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orifice Diameter | Hole size machined in the plate relative to pipe internal diameter | 0.3 to 0.7 of pipe ID | Smaller beta ratio increases differential pressure and sensitivity |
| Beta Ratio | Ratio of orifice bore to pipe inside diameter | 0.2 to 0.8 for most applications | Inferences flow rate and affects pressure loss, accuracy, and cavitation risk |
| Differential Pressure | Pressure difference across upstream and downstream taps | Scaled to flow rate |