Gear Flowmeters and Industrial Applications

Gear flowmeters are a type of positive displacement flowmeter that measure volumetric flow by using intermeshing gears. As the fluid moves through the chamber, it drives the gears to rotate, and each rotation corresponds to a fixed volume. Due to their ability to provide accurate measurements with viscous fluids and at low flow rates, gear flowmeters are widely used in industries such as oil, chemical, pharmaceutical, food, and automotive.

WORKING PRINCIPLE

In gear flowmeters, the fluid passes through a chamber containing two precision gears. As the fluid flows, it causes the gears to rotate. Each gear rotation corresponds to a known volume, which is counted to calculate the total flow.

Basic equation:
Qv = n · Vc
Qv: volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
n: gear rotation frequency (Hz)
Vc: displaced volume per rotation (m³).

They are especially accurate in low flow and high viscosity applications.

STRUCTURAL FEATURES

• Body materials: stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum
• Measuring elements: precision intermeshing gears
• Output signals: magnetic pickup, pulse output, digital signals
• High-pressure resistant designs
• Wide measuring range (from 0.01 l/min up to hundreds of l/min)

ADVANTAGES AND LIMITATIONS

Advantages:

• Very high accuracy (±0.1% – ±0.5%)
• Reliable for viscous fluids
• Precise measurement even at low flow rates
• Compact and durable construction

Limitations:

• Moving parts require maintenance
• Reduced lifespan with abrasive or particulate fluids
• Limited by high-temperature conditions

APPLICATION AREAS

• Hydraulic oil and fuel measurement
• Solvent and polymer measurement in chemical industries
• Syrups, honey, oils in the food industry
• Precision dosing in pharmaceuticals
• Lubrication systems in automotive applications

STANDARDS AND CALIBRATION

• OIML R 117: Standard for liquid measuring devices
• ISO/IEC 17025: Calibration laboratory accreditation
• ATEX-certified models for explosive environments
• Regular calibration is essential for accuracy

CONCLUSION

Gear flowmeters are reliable and accurate instruments, particularly suitable for viscous fluids and low flow rates. Their durability and precision make them one of the most efficient flowmeter options in industrial measurement applications.