The first and most important feature is that the flow meter is simple to set up and operate.
Nobody enjoys complexities, and your facilities manager is no exception. Choose a simple flow meter to install, requiring little maintenance and not requiring any additional calculations. Make that the flow meter can connect with your DCS, PLC, or control system without difficulty. Knowing that the flow meter has the appropriate certifications for usage in dangerous regions is reassuring and a requirement!
Flow meter precision is the second most important feature.
Who knows what's going on behind the scenes in the pipes? As a result, you'll need a measurement instrument to correctly measure the flow in the pipes and provide you with a window into your process. Have high expectations for the process's correctness across the whole spectrum of operation, whether at high or low flow rates.
Flow meter field flexibility is the third key feature.
Flow meters with limited flexibility that require a return authorization to the manufacturer's factory for modification or recalibration are causing you downtime. Select a full-featured flow technology that allows the user to make adjustments or confirm accuracy in the field. These flow meters will keep you in control of your process and help you prevent downtime.
Flow meter cost-effectiveness is the fourth key feature.
Do your homework and acquire several quotations. Some technologies promise the moon and stars, but the price tag may be prohibitive.
Flow meter reliability is the fifth key feature.
Choose a flow meter that can accurately measure flow over time with minimal effort. The bottom line is that you want to be able to rely on the readings from your flow meter without needing to perform routine maintenance or recalibrations.
