A liquid turbine flow meter measures the flow rate of a liquid by using the mechanical energy of the fluid to rotate a turbine within the meter. Here's a detailed explanation of how it works:

Components

1. Housing: The flow meter has a robust housing that contains the internal components and connects to the piping system.
2. Turbine Rotor: A rotor with multiple blades is placed in the path of the flowing liquid.
3. Bearing Assembly: Supports the turbine rotor, allowing it to rotate freely.
4. Magnetic or Optical Sensor: Detects the rotation of the turbine rotor blades and generates electrical pulses.

Working Principle

1. Fluid Flow: As the liquid flows through the meter, it strikes the blades of the turbine rotor.
2. Rotor Rotation: The force of the fluid flow causes the turbine rotor to spin. The rotational speed of the rotor is directly proportional to the velocity of the liquid passing through the meter.
3. Pulse Generation: Each rotation or partial rotation of the turbine rotor is detected by the magnetic or optical sensor. The sensor generates electrical pulses corresponding to the rotational speed of the rotor.
4. Pulse Counting: The number of pulses generated over a specific time period is counted. Since the pulse frequency is proportional to the flow rate, counting the pulses allows for the determination of the volumetric flow rate.
5. Flow Rate Calculation: The flow meter's electronics convert the pulse data into a flow rate using a pre-calibrated factor specific to the meter. This factor, often referred to as the "K-factor," relates the number of pulses to a specific volume of fluid.