Application
Boiler & Steam Lines
Steam is a critical utility in manufacturing, food processing, and HVAC. Accurate steam flow measurement is essential for boiler efficiency, energy cost allocation, and process control.
Steam Flow Measurement Challenges
Steam measurement demands meters that can handle high temperatures, condensate, and pressure fluctuations without drifting or failing. Flo-Gage variable area meters use a proven differential pressure principle with no electronic components in the flow path — making them inherently reliable in steam service.
Our Steam Flow Meters (option K) are factory-calibrated for saturated steam and rated to 120 psig. The rugged stainless steel construction handles the thermal cycling that causes premature failure in lesser instruments.
Key Features for Steam Applications
- Saturated Steam Service option (K) rated to 120 psig
- Stainless steel body and internals for high-temperature service
- Expanded Temperature option (T) for -80°F to 350°F service
- Direct-reading dial calibrated in lb/hr or SCFM
- 4-20mA transmitter for boiler control system integration
- No moving parts in the flow path — minimal maintenance
Typical Installation Points
Boiler Outlet Header
Verify boiler output and monitor efficiency trends.
Process Steam Lines
Measure steam to autoclaves, heat exchangers, and reactors.
Building Heating Mains
Balance steam distribution across multiple buildings or zones.
Steam Trap Monitoring
Detect failed-open traps by measuring downstream flow.
How Customers Use Flo-Gage
Real-world application examples from industries that rely on RCM Industries flow meters every day.
Challenge
A textile plant had three steam boilers feeding multiple process lines. Operators had no way to verify steam distribution or detect imbalances between lines.
Solution
Flo-Gage FG-S steam meters installed on each boiler outlet and major branch. Direct-reading lb/hr dials gave operators immediate visibility.
Result
Discovered one boiler was carrying 60% of the load due to a partially closed valve. Rebalancing reduced fuel consumption by 12%.
Challenge
A pharma plant needed to log steam consumption per batch for energy accounting and regulatory documentation.
Solution
Flo-Gage steam meters with W3 transmitter option integrated into the plant DCS. 4–20 mA signal logged automatically per batch.
Result
Steam consumption data now available per batch with no manual readings. Energy cost per batch reduced 8% after process optimization.
Related Applications
Frequently Asked Questions
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