Knowledge Base

How do you choose the right flow meter?

The right flow meter makes it easier to track consumption, monitor processes, and detect anomalies. But which technology is best suited for your facility?

Here, we'll walk you through the most common options for water and other liquids. Whether you need to take measurements on a single pipe or are planning a larger project, we'll help you find the right solution.

Start with what you want to know

Do you want to monitor a flow, measure consumption over time, or track energy usage in a heating or cooling system?

Your purpose determines which solution you need:

• Continuous monitoring: Choose a meter for permanent installation.
• Inspection and Troubleshooting: A portable meter can be used at multiple measurement points.
• Energy metering: Combine flow measurement with temperature measurement on the supply and return lines.
• Flow Rate and Dosage: Select a meter that is suitable for the fluid, the flow range, and the volume measurement requirements.

Do you want to take a measurement without cutting the pipe?

In existing facilities, piping work and downtime can account for a significant portion of the cost of a new metering point.

With an ultrasonic flow meter equipped with a clamp-on sensor, you measure from the outside of the pipe. You don't need to cut into the pipe, and the meter causes no pressure drop.

This makes the technology particularly interesting for the industrial, real estate, and HVAC sectors, where measurement capabilities need to be integrated into an existing system.

See our ultrasonic flow meters

Fixed or portable flow meter?

Fixed Measurement – Monitor the Facility Over Time

A stationary flow meter is suitable when you want to monitor flow continuously, compare operating conditions, or transmit measurement data to a control or monitoring system.

For fixed clamp-on measurements, options include the LRF-3000S, LRF-3000 Ultra, and the compact Flow Watch F6. We'll help you choose the right model based on your measurement point and needs.

Portable Measurement – Check Multiple Measurement Points

A portable flow meter is suitable for troubleshooting, calibration, and temporary checks. The same instrument can be moved between different pipes and systems.

The LRF-3000P is a good option when you want to measure flow rates without installing a permanent meter at each measurement point.

Compare our ultrasonic flow meters

Do you need to measure both flow and energy?

In heating and cooling systems, the flow rate indicates how much fluid is passing through. To calculate the power and energy transferred, the temperatures of the supply and return lines are also needed.

With an energy flow meter, for example, you can monitor different circuits, compare different parts of a building, and gain a better foundation for your energy efficiency efforts.

See our energy flow meters for heating and cooling systems

How do you plan to use the measurement data?

It may be enough to read the values directly from the display. If you want to collect them automatically, the meter must have an output or communication capability that is compatible with your system.

Depending on the model and configuration, the device features Modbus RS485, M-Bus, pulse, 4–20 mA, or relay output.

We'll help you choose the right model from the start, so that the meter is suitable for both the measurement point and how you plan to work with the measurement data.

A single measurement point or an entire project?

We help industrial companies, real estate firms, installers, OEMs, and system integrators find the right flow meters for both individual installations and larger projects.

You'll receive personalized advice, a comprehensive quote, and assistance in choosing products. It's easy to get started and easy to order more as your needs grow.

Request a Project Quote

We'll help you make the right choice

You don't need to know which model to choose on your own. Start by telling us what you want to measure, and we'll help you from there.

If you have the information on hand, please feel free to send:

• Which liquid is to be measured.
• The outer diameter of the pipes.
• The temperature of the liquid.
• Whether the measurement should be permanent or temporary.
• Desired communication protocol, such as Modbus or M-Bus.

Is there any information missing? Get in touch anyway—we'll help you move forward.

Get help choosing a product and requesting a quote