Turbine Flowmeter vs. Ultrasonic Flowmeter: What are the Differences?

Turbine and ultrasonic flowmeters are most used for measuring and monitoring liquids or gases. This blog will help you compare your requirements with the applications and understand the differences between these flowmeters. Hence, you will be able to pick the right one for you. Let’s start with understanding the turbine flowmeter.

What is a Turbine Flowmeter?

The turbine flowmeter utilizes the free-spinning turbine wheel required to measure the fluid velocity. It is installed in the flow stream just like a miniature.

What are the applications of a Turbine Flowmeter?

The major application of the turbine flowmeter is to measure clean, pure, and dry gases. The turbine flowmeter measures chemicals, gases, hydrocarbons, vapors, fuels, and other liquids with lower velocity.

What is an Ultrasonic Flowmeter?

The ultrasonic flowmeter is not just equipment but a huge system used to measure the liquid or gas. This equipment is also required for transferring liquid or gas.

What are the applications of an Ultrasonic Flowmeter?

• Measuring water movement - The ultrasonic flowmeter originated for measuring water flow. You can use the meter to measure the flow and movement of water. Also, you can monitor the water flow with the help of an ultrasonic meter without moving the parts.

• The oil industry - The meter is highly used in the oil industry. You can extract or flow oil from the ultrasonic flowmeter.

• Custody transfer of liquids - Custody transfer is the essential one. When two parties agree to transfer the liquid from one storage to another, you need the ultrasonic flowmeter to make the transition. The ultrasonic meter helps to measure the flow of liquid or gas accurately.

What are the similarities and differences?

You must have identified the differences in the applications of the flowmeters. Hence, let’s get to the key similarities and differences between the turbine flowmeter and the ultrasonic flowmeter.

Particulars	Turbine Flowmeter	Ultrasonic Flowmeter
Gas/Liquid	Both	Both
Accuracy	0.30 %	1 %
Ideal for measuring	Mass flow/velocity	Mass flow

Here is the comparison of both the flowmeters in terms of measurement principle.

Measurement Principle	Turbine Flowmeter	Ultrasonic Flowmeter
Effect of uneven flow	Excellent	Not Good
Effect of solids	Not Good	Good
Effect of adhesion	Not Good	Good
Obstruction inside pipe	Not Good	Excellent

You may have understood the turbine and ultrasonic flowmeter, their similarities, and their differences. Select the right flowmeter for your requirements.