Emerging new standards combined with product improvements are boosting the outlook for sales of vortex flowmeters, according to a new study from Flow Research Inc., Wakefield, Mass. Worldwide revenues from vortex flowmeter sales are projected to rise at a 6.4 percent compound annual growth rate, from $176 million in 2005 to $240 million in 2010, according to the study, “The World Market for Vortex Flowmeters, 3rd Edition.”
One of the most dramatic changes in the vortex flowmeter market is the current formulation by the American Petroleum Institute of standards for vortex flowmeters in custody transfer applications, says Flow Research. These standards respond to the expressed needs of both manufacturers and end-users of vortex flowmeters, and apply to both liquid and gas applications. If approved, these standards are likely to have a very positive impact on the market, the research firm says.
In addition, the past five years have seen major product enhancements to vortex flowmeters, says the study. Suppliers have responded to vibration issues by implementing software and electronics, including digital signal processing, which reduce the susceptibility of vortex meters to interference from vibration.
Some manufacturers have introduced reducer vortex flowmeters, which have a reduced diameter in the center of the pipe. This not only simplifies vortex flowmeter installation, but also improves the ability of vortex flowmeters to accurately measure fluids at low flow rates. The growing availability of multivariable vortex flowmeters is also helping boost sales of vortex flowmeters, with more manufacturers entering the market, the study points out.
For more information on the study, visit www.flowresearch.com/Vortex_Study/welcome.htm.
