Flow Sensors

Flow sensors are devices that help us measure the movement of fluids, like water or air, in various applications. You may have heard of them being referred to as a flow meter or flow indicator. They work like fluid detectives, detecting the flow rate and volume with certain applications to provide valuable information for controlling, monitoring, and optimising processes.

Types of Flow Sensors

Flow sensors are essential tools for measuring the movement of liquids and gases in various New Zealand industries. From water flow meters in utilities to digital flow meters in manufacturing, these devices come in various types, each with unique operating principles. Explore the range of flow sensor technologies, including differential pressure, turbine, electromagnetic, ultrasonic, and vortex, ensuring accurate and reliable flow measurement for every application.

Differential Pressure Flow Sensors

These types of flow sensors create a pressure drop in the fluid and measure the resulting difference. They compare the pressure upstream and downstream of an obstruction, calculating the flow rate. They're commonly used in HVAC systems and industrial processes.

Turbine Flow Sensors

Turbine sensors work like tiny windmills in the fluid stream. As the fluid flows, it spins the turbine, and the speed of rotation is proportional to the flow rate. These sensors are widely used in water utilities, irrigation systems, and even fuel consumption monitoring.

Electromagnetic Flow Sensors

These sensors employ the power of electromagnetism to measure flow. A magnetic field is created perpendicular to the fluid's direction, and as the conductive fluid flows, it generates a voltage proportional to the velocity. They are unaffected by pressure or temperature changes and find applications in water treatment, chemical processes, and wastewater management.

Ultrasonic Flow Sensors

These sensors use sound waves to detect the flow. They emit ultrasonic signals through the fluid and measure the time it takes for the waves to travel upstream and downstream. By comparing these times, they calculate the flow rate. These sensors are particularly handy for large pipes and ducts.

Vortex Flow Sensors

Just as a whirlpool forms when water flows past an obstacle, vortex flow sensors take advantage of the "twist" in the flow. They place a bluff body in the fluid stream, and the frequency of vortices formed is directly related to the flow rate. These sensors excel in measuring gas flow and find applications in HVAC, chemical plants, and even beer brewing!

Flow sensors are the "current" stars of the measurement world, helping us formulate efficient processes, optimise resource usage, and maintain the perfect balance. With their diverse types and applications, they're certainly not "fluid" when it comes to providing valuable data.

Applications and Industries

Flow sensors are indispensable tools across various sectors in New Zealand, enabling precise measurement and control of fluid flow in diverse applications. From monitoring water resources to ensuring efficient industrial processes, flow meters play a vital role in optimising operations and resource management.

• Water Management: Water flow meters and water flow sensors are essential for monitoring water usage in irrigation systems, municipal water supplies, and wastewater treatment plants. Digital flow meters and inline flow meters provide accurate data for billing, leak detection, and resource management.
• Industrial Processes: Flow sensors are crucial in manufacturing, ensuring the precise flow of liquids and gases in chemical processes, food production, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial applications. Electromagnetic flow meters, turbine flow sensors, and differential pressure flow sensors are commonly used for their accuracy and reliability.
• Agriculture: Flow sensors play a significant role in agriculture, monitoring irrigation water usage, optimising fertiliser application, and managing livestock water consumption. Inline flow meters and water flow sensors are used to ensure efficient water distribution and resource conservation.
• HVAC Systems: Flow sensors are essential in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, monitoring and controlling the flow of air and water (when paired with level sensors) to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels. Differential pressure flow sensors and vortex flow meters are commonly used for their accuracy and responsiveness.
• Energy Sector: Flow sensors are used in power plants to measure the flow of fuels, steam, and water, ensuring efficient energy generation and distribution. Turbine flow sensors and ultrasonic flow meters are often employed for their ability to handle high flow rates and challenging environments.

Optimise Your Fluid Management with RS Components Flow Sensors

RS New Zealand is your trusted supplier of high-quality flow sensors, offering a comprehensive range of water flow meters, flow sensors, and digital flow meters designed for precision and reliability. Our extensive selection caters to diverse industries across New Zealand, ensuring you find the perfect flow measurement solution for your specific needs. Explore our wide variety of flow sensors and discover how to optimise your fluid management processes today.

Ordering & Delivery Information for New Zealand

RS offers fast delivery of flow sensors, including liquid flow meters and digital flow meters, within New Zealand. For more details on delivery services and fees, please refer to our Delivery Information page.