Flow meters customized for extreme conditions!

Original article on Paper Advance

WHY MATERIAL CHOICES MATTER

ESKO Flow meters can be customized for extreme operating conditions, including corrosive chemicals and temperature fluctuations. Harsh conditions require robust flow monitoring solutions made with durable parts. Every component of a flow meter needs to be able to withstand fluctuating process conditions and potential exposures.  While stainless steel (SS) is often the preferred choice for reliability, not all SS is created equal.  Composition is key to its durability.

WHAT’S IN STAINLESS STEEL?

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SS is an iron-based alloy with at least 10.5% chromium which enhances its corrosion resistance. Additionally, chromium, nickel, and molybdenum improve its properties. The AISI system categorizes SS alloys into series 200, 300, and 400. The 300 series is most common in industrial applications.

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WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SS304 AND SS316?

  • SS304: Contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel; durable and corrosion-resistant, often used in auto molding, pressure vessels, and piping.
  • SS316: Contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum; is ideal for pharmaceutical manufacturing and outdoor use due to its superior resistance to salt and chlorides.  Superior heat resistance and defense against chemicals like chlorides, iodides, and bromides make it the preferred choice for harsh industrial environments.

KYNAR: A HIGH-PERFORMANCE RESIN ALTERNATIVE TO STAINLESS STEEL

Corrosive attacks happen at a molecular level.  Kynar® (a brand name for PVDF, or polyvinylidene fluoride) is a high-performance thermoplastic fluoropolymer resin.  Its chemical resistance comes from its main building block, Vinylidene Fluoride Monomer.  Various additives can be included to enhance properties such as UV strength, impact strength, or processing characteristics.

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Due to Kynar®’s high resistance to chemicals, abrasion, and UV radiation, it is suitable for demanding flow monitoring applications in industries like chemical processing and water treatment. Accordingly, it’s a popular choice for seal water monitors assembled with glass tubes and stainless steel floats for better chemical resistance.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FLOW METER

Operating conditions and variations dictate the best material choices for each flow monitoring application.  Flow meters can be customized for extreme conditions or typical applications. Follow this step-by-step approach to find the right flow meter for your needs.

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