Flow meter

Application of Bearings in Flow Meters

Flow meters rely on Impeller, turbine, rotor Rotary meters are used to measure the flow of liquids and gases, and the bearings directly determine measurement accuracy, service life, corrosion resistance, and stability.

I. Main Functions

Supports high-speed rotation of the rotor and turbine, reduces friction, and ensures more precise metering.
Reduce vibration and eccentricity to ensure stable long-term measurement accuracy.
Resistant to media corrosion, wear-resistant, and anti-clogging; suitable for sewage, oil and gas, and acidic/alkaline liquids.
Low friction resistance ensures sensitive rotation even at very low flow rates, with no undercounting and minimal error.

II. Applications of Various Flow Meters

1. Turbine flowmeter (most widely used)

Installed at both ends of the turbine spindle High-precision miniature deep-groove ball bearings, ceramic bearings
Gas, tap water, and oil metering; smooth rotation and responsive performance.
Low-resistance bearings → Precise metering at low flow rates

2. Oval gear flowmeter, rotary piston flowmeter

Gear meshing and rotating support bearing
Withstands medium pressure, is wear- and impact-resistant, and is suitable for heavy oil and viscous liquids.

3. Vortex and Rotameter Flow Meters

Float-guided bearing, oscillating-sensing bearing
Ensures the float remains centered and free of jamming, with stable flow readings.

4. Electromagnetic and Ultrasonic Auxiliary Instruments

Valve actuators and bearings for control mechanisms
Pan-tilt unit with probe rotation and positioning; long-term maintenance-free.

5. Gas meters and water meters (civilian flow meters)

Built-in impeller micro bearing
Waterproof, scale-resistant, and capable of long-term low-speed operation—household gas water meters designed to last over a decade.

III. Characteristics of Bearings Specialized for Flow Meters

Corrosion-resistant : Stainless steel and ceramic bearings, resistant to water, oil and gas, and acidic/alkaline chemical media.
Low friction : Extremely low resistance; even at very low flow rates, it can still rotate normally.
Waterproof seal : Prevents mud, scale, and impurities from entering; does not jam.
Non-magnetic / Insulated : Compatible with electromagnetic instruments, does not interfere with signals
Long service life and low wear, eliminating inaccurate metering and erratic meter readings caused by wear.