Flowmeters Product Research (June 2007)

Research was undertaken to gain a better understanding of Control Engineering subscribers’ applications and needs regarding flowmeters.

By Control Engineering Staff June 25, 2007

Research was undertaken to gain a better understanding of Control Engineering subscribers’ applications and needs regarding flowmeters.

Executive Summary• Among those who specify, recommend, or buy flowmeters, 80% do so for in-plant requirements, while 35% do this for OEM needs.• Batch and continuous processing is the most prominent application for flowmeters. Utilities services are used by about one quarter of respondents.• The most widely used flowmeters include turbine and magnetic types which are used by about 44% of respondents. Orifice flowmeters are used by slightly less (41%) of respondents.• Of those using flowmeters, 94% are applying full flow pipe and another 28% are using open channel or partial flow pipe.• The most widely used communication protocol used with flowmeters is 4-20 mA which is used by 84% of respondents. About one-third are using 0-10 V and HART.• Emerson– Rosemount is the most purchased from manufacturer over the last 12 months for flowmeters. Emerson – Micro Motion is the next most purchased from manufacturer garnering about 20% of mentions. There was no consensus among the 30% “other” responses.• On average, 77% of respondents purchased 1 to 10 flowmeters in the last 12 months. About 90% purchased fewer than 20 units in the last year. On average, more than half spent in excess of $5,000 on flowmeters; 12% spent more than $50,000.• Twenty-six percent of control engineers’ need for flowmeters will grow over the next year.• Sixty-four (64%) of respondents mentioned improved reliability as the most significant factor when deciding on a supplier from which to purchase flowmeters; 43% mentioned improved accuracy as being very important.• 60% of Control Engineering subscribers responding do not receive Control Design. 74% do not receive Control.

Flowmeters Product Research 2007