Advantages and Disadvantages of Vortex Flow meters

Field Instrumentation Flow Measurement
1

Advantages of Vortex meters

1 .Wide rangeability (for Reynolds numbers above l0,OOO). 2. An accuracy of 1 percent of rate. 3.A wide range of sizes. 4. Linear output. 5. Availability of pulse and analog outputs.

Limitations of Vortex meters

  1. A limited range of construction materials is available.
  2. Vortex meters are generally not suitable for slurries or O high-viscosity liquids.
  3. Users cannot check calibration
  4. Turbulent flow is required.
  5. Vortex meters have over range limitations.
  6. Strainers may be required.
  7. Vortex meters are affected by pulsating flow.
1 Like
2

Advantages: 6. No moving parts and hence wear free. 7. Easy replacement for old mechanical meters.

Disadvantages: 8. If not sized properly, almost useless. Process medium plays a major role in sizing. 9. Downstream space requirement.

3

Advantages of Vortex Flow Meters

  1. No Moving Parts (Low Maintenance) Unlike turbine or positive displacement meters, vortex meters have no bearings or gears that wear out.Reduces long-term maintenance costs.
  2. Suitable for Liquids, Gases, and Steam Works well with: Water, chemicals, oils (liquids) Natural gas, compressed air (gases) Saturated & superheated steam (common in industrial processes)
  3. Wide Turndown Ratio (Typically 10:1 to 20:1) Can measure low and high flow rates accurately within a broad range.
  4. Good Accuracy (±1% to ±2% of Reading) Comparable to turbine meters but without mechanical wear.
  5. Bidirectional Flow Measurement (Some Models) Can detect flow in both directions if properly calibrated.
  6. Minimal Pressure Drop (Compared to Orifice Plates) The bluff body causes some resistance, but less than differential pressure (DP) meters.
  7. Digital Output & Easy Integration Provides frequency (pulse) and 4-20 mA signals for PLC/SCADA systems. Disadvantages of Vortex Flow Meters
  8. Requires Minimum Flow Velocity Needs a certain Reynolds number (typically Re > 10,000) to generate vortices. Not suitable for very low flow rates (may stop working below a threshold).
  9. Affected by Pipe Vibrations & Flow Disturbances External vibrations or turbulence can interfere with vortex detection. Requires straight pipe runs (usually 10D upstream & 5D downstream) for accuracy.
  10. Not Ideal for Viscous or Dirty Fluids Highly viscous fluids (e.g., heavy oils) dampen vortex shedding. Slurries or dirty fluids can clog the bluff body or damage sensors.
  11. Limited Use in Low-Density Gases Low-density gases (e.g., hydrogen, natural gas at low pressure) may not generate strong vortices.
  12. Temperature & Pressure Limitations High-temperature steam (>400°C) may require special materials. High-pressure applications need reinforced designs.
  13. Initial Cost Higher Than Some Alternatives More expensive than orifice plates but cheaper than Coriolis or ultrasonic meters.