When it concerns the passage of liquid through pipes, precise measurement is important. It particularly becomes important regarding any bulk-transfer device for tanker loading.
What is a Bulk Flow Meter?
A bulk flow meter is a device created to measure the flow (movement) of a liquid in a pipe. The liquid may be anything fluid. In the tanker business, a bulk flow meter measures the flow of diesel, oil and other petroleum products.
Flow Measurement
There are several ways to measure the bulk fluid flow. The more common methods of flow measurement include:
Positive-displacement: These flow meters collect a set volume of fluid. They then add up the amount of times full volume is reached to achieve the flow measurement
Velocity: This also can be used to measure flow. It focuses on the speed of the fluid over a specified area
In former years, actual scales or load cells were used to measure mass transfer. With updates and technological advances, mechanical meters became more reliable in their measurement. Many bulk flow meters are operated by Mechanical registers.
Mechanical and Electrical Registers/Meters
Until fairly recently, mechanical registers on bulk flow meters have been responsible for the measurement of fuel. They have proven to be reliable.
Instead of a mechanical counter or register, it is now possible to purchase and electronic register. Depending upon the manufacturer, it is easy to simply replace the mechanical device with an electric one. It proves to be more consistent and adaptable than the mechanical devices currently in use.
Yet, whatever your company’s preference, make sure it is measuring accurately. Whatever type of bulk flow meters are in use at your facility be sure they operate with precision. This is one more way we can all keep the industry moving safely forward.
