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How Paddlewheel Flowmeters Work Paddlewheel flowmetersuse the mechanical energy of the fluid to rotate a paddlewheel(just like a riverboat) in the flow stream. Paddles on the rotor are inserted into the flow to transform energy from the flow stream into rotational energy. The rotor shaft spins on bearings.

People also ask


  • How does a paddle wheel meter work?

  • The paddle wheel sensor consists of a freely rotating wheel or impeller with embedded magnets which is perpendicular to the flow and will rotate when inserted in the flowing medium. As the magnets in the blades spin past the sensor, the paddle wheel meter generates a frequency and voltage signal which is proportional to the flow rate.

  • How does a mechanical flow meter work?

  • The mechanical flow meter has a rotational device inside such as a paddle wheel or a propeller. Liquid flowing through a pipe causes the rotation of the internal paddle, which creates a flow rate that is proportional to the rotational speed of the internal paddle. The mechanical flow meter is easier for laymen to understand.

  • What is a paddlewheel flowmeter?

  • Paddlewheel flowmeters measure the velocity of liquids in pipes, such as chemicals, water and liquids. High accuracy is attainable if carefully installed. These flowmeters are measuring flow at the edge of the flow profile and thus are affected by viscosity changes.

  • Can a paddlewheel flowmeter transition from gas to liquid?

  • In summary, paddlewheel flowmeters have moving parts that are subject to degradation with time and use. Abrupt transitions from gas flow to liquid flow should be avoided because they can mechanically stress the flowmeter, degrade accuracy, and/or damage the flowmeter.