Decision Tool
Flow Meter Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of electromagnetic, ultrasonic, vortex, and Coriolis flow meters. Compare accuracy, applications, fluid compatibility, and installation requirements.
| Feature | Electromagnetic | Ultrasonic | Vortex | Coriolis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Measurement Principle | Faraday's Law (induced voltage) | Ultrasonic transit time / Doppler | Von Kármán vortex shedding | Coriolis force on vibrating tubes |
| Measured Parameter | Volumetric flow | Volumetric flow | Volumetric flow | Mass flow + density + temperature |
| Typical Accuracy | ±0.2% – ±0.5% | ±0.5% – ±1.0% | ±0.75% – ±1.0% | ±0.1% – ±0.2% |
| Fluid Conductivity Required | Yes (≥5 μS/cm) | No | No | No |
| Moving Parts | None | None (clamp-on) | None | Vibrating tubes |
| Pressure Drop | None | None (clamp-on) | Low | Low–Moderate |
| Max Temperature | 180°C (PTFE liner) | 200°C | 350°C | 200°C |
| Pipe Size Range | DN3 – DN2000 | DN15 – DN6000 | DN15 – DN300 | DN3 – DN150 |
| Suitable for Slurries | Yes (abrasion-resistant liner) | Doppler: Yes | Limited | Limited |
| Suitable for Gas/Steam | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Suitable for Clean Water | Yes | Yes | Yes (large pipes) | Yes (expensive) |
| Non-Invasive Installation | No | Yes (clamp-on) | No | No |
| Typical Cost | $$ | $$$ | $$ | $$$$ |
| Best For | Water, wastewater, chemicals, slurries, sanitary — conductive liquids | Large pipes, clean water, non-invasive retrofit | Steam, gas, high-temperature, energy management | Custody transfer, chemical dosing, high-value fluids |