FLOMEC Meters: Understanding Output Options

When selecting a FLOMEC meter for your application, it's essential to choose the right output option to match your specific needs. FLOMEC offers a variety of meters with different output options, including pulse output, scaled pulse output, and 4-20 mA output. Each of these options serves different applications and operational requirements, ensuring you have the right tools to achieve precise and efficient flow measurement.

Meters with digital pulse outputs can be configured to output unscaled raw pulses for the highest possible resolution. Meters with digital pulse outputs can also be configured to output pulses for each unit of pre-determined volume recorded by the meter, known as scaled pulses, to maintain compatibility with PLC’s that have limited input configurability.

Pulse and scaled pulse outputs are well suited for measuring specified volumes of fluid, since the meter will output discreet pulses for each unit of volume measured. If you are batching fluids, these discreet pulses will easily allow your controller to record totals while also controlling valves and pumps to automatically follow specified batching recipes.

Meters with 4-20 mA outputs are designed to transmit an electrical current proportional to the flow velocity recorded by the meter. This output ranges from 4 mA at the low end to 20 mA at the high end, depending on the flow rate. This type of output is ideal for applications that require continuous flow monitoring, such as blending liquids, because the meter provides a constant current when detecting a stable flow. If there is any change in flow, the amperage changes accordingly, allowing the system to trigger necessary actions such as opening or closing valves, adjusting pump speeds, or activating alarms. 

When you order a meter with the 4-20 mA module factory installed, it will come factory set with the minimum to maximum flow rate of the meter corresponding to the 4-20 mA output signal. You can modify these settings to suit your application if you choose, for example, you have a pumping range which is less than the full flow range of the meter.

Choosing the right output for your needs

When selecting a FLOMEC meter, consider the specific requirements for your application: 

• For precise volume measurement (e.g. in batching processes), choose a meter with pulse or scaled pulse output. 
• For continuous flow monitoring (e.g. in blending operations), opt for a meter with a 4-20 mA output. 

Selecting the right FLOMEC Meter and output option is crucial for achieving accurate flow measurement and efficient operation in your industrial processes. Whether you need high-resolution pulse outputs for volume measurement or a 4-20 mA output for continuous flow monitoring, FLOMEC offers a range of solutions to meet your needs.

For more information or assistance in selecting the right meter for your application, contact our product support team today!