Optimize HVAC and Process System Efficiency by Matching Your Plant and Processes To The Right Flow Measurement Technology

Plant engineers have many flow measurement technology options when selecting flow sensors or flow meters to optimize heating-ventilation-air-conditioning (HVAC) and process control systems. It is therefore helpful to understand in some detail, the multiple types of flow meters and flow sensor technologies available today, such as differential pressure, positive displacement, mass, turbine, positive displacement, vortex shedding and ultra sonic. Both plant HVAC systems and process control equipment that provide air flow, heating, curing, cooling or chilling consume large amounts of energy. The cost of plant climate control alone for a 100,000 square-foot building is a major electric energy use, which can be one of a company's highest expenses. In addition, many plants require additional energy to operate process equipment responsible for heating, blowing, curing, cooling, chilling and other functions vital to the manufacture or processing of their products. Energy utilities and the suppliers of HVAC and process equipment have invested heavily and worked diligently for many years to improve the energy efficiency of their systems. There are also utility and local and state government programs designed to help manufacturers audit, improve and reduce their energy costs.