What is a bulk flow meter?
A bulk flow meter measures large volumes of liquid moving through a pipeline or transfer system, such as during fuel loading, chemical transfer or industrial processing. Because bulk movements often involve valuable commodities like diesel, petrol, lubricants and chemicals, the measurement has to be robust and reliable.
Where accuracy matters most
- Product accountability
- Billing and custody transfer
- Inventory management
- Process control
Industries that rely on it
- Petrochemical and fuel distribution
- Mining and heavy industry
- Transport and logistics
- Agriculture and fertiliser handling
- Manufacturing and processing
Positive displacement flow meters
One of the most widely used technologies for bulk liquid measurement is the positive displacement (PD) meter. It repeatedly traps and releases fixed volumes of liquid in a measuring chamber. Each cycle is a precise, known volume, so counting the cycles gives an accurate flow rate and total volume.
Robust mechanical designs, proven over decades of industrial use, make PD meters dependable in harsh environments.
Types of PD meter
Oval gear meters
Two rotating gears trap and transfer fluid through the chamber. High precision and excellent with viscous liquids, they suit oils and lubricants, fuel transfer and chemical dosing.
Rotary vane meters
Sliding vanes in a rotor form the measuring chambers. Built for high flow rates and large volumes, they suit fuel loading systems, bulk depots, aviation refuelling and truck loading racks.
Piston meters
Reciprocating pistons capture fixed volumes of fluid. Known for excellent accuracy at relatively low flow rates, they suit fuel dispensing, retail pumps and small transfer systems.
See the TCS 700 rotary and 682 piston meters and the Piusi oval gear range.
Choosing the right bulk flow meter
- Flow rate range: your minimum and maximum flow rates decide the right meter size and technology.
- Fluid type: viscosity, corrosiveness and temperature all affect meter selection.
- Accuracy requirements: custody transfer and billing need higher accuracy than general process monitoring.
- Installation environment: vibration, temperature changes and hazardous areas all need the right equipment.
Not sure which fits? Our technical team will recommend the right meter for your application.