Coriolis Flow Meter vs. Vortex Flow Meter

Attribute	Coriolis Flow Meter	Vortex Flow Meter
Measurement Principle	Based on the Coriolis effect	Based on the von Kármán effect
Accuracy	High	Medium to High
Fluid Types	Can measure various fluid types	Best suited for clean liquids and gases
Pressure Drop	Low	Low to Medium
Installation Cost	High	Medium

Introduction

When it comes to measuring flow rates in various industrial processes, two commonly used technologies are Coriolis flow meters and vortex flow meters. Both types of flow meters have their own unique attributes and advantages, making them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Coriolis flow meters and vortex flow meters to help you understand which one may be more suitable for your specific needs.

Principle of Operation

Coriolis flow meters operate based on the principle of measuring the mass flow rate of a fluid by detecting the deflection of a vibrating tube. As the fluid flows through the tube, it causes the tube to twist, creating a phase shift that is proportional to the mass flow rate. On the other hand, vortex flow meters operate based on the principle of measuring the flow rate by detecting the vortices shed by a bluff body placed in the flow stream. The frequency of the vortices shed is proportional to the flow rate of the fluid.

Accuracy

Coriolis flow meters are known for their high accuracy in measuring flow rates, especially for fluids with varying density and viscosity. The direct measurement of mass flow rate makes Coriolis flow meters less susceptible to changes in fluid properties compared to other types of flow meters. Vortex flow meters, on the other hand, are also known for their high accuracy, particularly in measuring the flow rates of clean liquids and gases. However, vortex flow meters may be less accurate when measuring fluids with low flow rates or high viscosity.

Fluid Compatibility

Coriolis flow meters are suitable for a wide range of fluids, including liquids, gases, and slurries. They can handle fluids with varying viscosities, densities, and temperatures, making them versatile for many applications. Vortex flow meters, on the other hand, are best suited for clean liquids and gases with low viscosity. They may not be suitable for measuring fluids with high viscosity or solids in suspension, as these can affect the accuracy of the measurements.

Installation and Maintenance

Coriolis flow meters are generally more complex in design compared to vortex flow meters, which can make them more challenging to install and maintain. The vibrating tubes in Coriolis flow meters require careful handling to prevent damage, and the electronics involved may require regular calibration and maintenance. Vortex flow meters, on the other hand, are relatively simple in design and easier to install and maintain. They do not have moving parts that can wear out, making them more reliable in the long run.

Cost

Coriolis flow meters are typically more expensive than vortex flow meters, both in terms of initial purchase cost and ongoing maintenance costs. The complex design and high accuracy of Coriolis flow meters contribute to their higher cost. Vortex flow meters, on the other hand, are more cost-effective, making them a popular choice for applications where high accuracy is not critical or where budget constraints are a concern.

Applications

Coriolis flow meters are commonly used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, food and beverage, and pharmaceuticals, where high accuracy and reliability are essential. Their ability to measure mass flow rate directly makes them ideal for applications where the density and viscosity of the fluid may vary. Vortex flow meters, on the other hand, are often used in applications such as water and wastewater treatment, HVAC systems, and utilities, where cost-effectiveness and ease of maintenance are important considerations.