RCM Gas Flow Meters
RCM Series 7000 and RCM Series 8000
The RCM gas flow meters are well suited to monitoring compressed air flow rates. These meters plumb directly into the pipelines and require no external power connections. Use these meters to determine the air consumption of tools for improved accounting and increased efficiency.
The Flo-Gage™ operates on a classic differential pressure (ΔP) principle, similar to an orifice-plate meter but fully integrated for simplicity and reliability. Other compressed gases can be monitored as well.
Common gases monitored include nitrogen, oxygen, argon, carbon dioxide, natural and LP gases.
- Meters available in Bronze, Monel or 316SS
- Threaded Connections (Series 7000): 1/4″ to 3″ NPT or BSP
- Wafer Style (Series 8000): 1/2″ to 8″
- Gas flow ranges: 40 SCFH (1 Nm³/h) in 1/2″ to 20,000 SCFM (600 Nm³/m) in 8″
Standard Features
- Sturdy in-line metal construction to withstand piping stresses without breaking.
- Black on white dial — won't crack, glaze or become hard to read with age.
- Expanded 3.5″ (90mm) 270° analog dial for reading at a glance.
- Suitable for use with both opaque and clear fluids.
- Measures 6:1 range with ±3% F.S. Accuracy.
- Dial and case factory configured for quick installation — but easily field re-configured if needed.
- Gas flow ranges from 40 SCFH (1 Nm³/h) in 1/2″ meter to 20,000 SCFM (600 Nm³/m) in 8″ meter.
- No external power connections required.
Option: Ammonia Gas Service
Ammonia gas is used in distillation plants and as a cooling agent. Our Ammonia gas flow meters offer all stainless steel construction to withstand the harsh environment. EPR seals and a gasketed case are standard features for additional protection.
Selecting Meters for Gas Service
- The Flo-Gage can measure air, nitrogen, oxygen, CO₂, hydrogen, propane, methane, argon, helium, sulfur dioxide, and more.
- Best Accuracy: Select a flow rate which will permit normal operation in the upper half of the meter scale.
- Minimum Pressure: Pressure should be not less than 10 psig at the meter inlet.
- Minimum Flow: Approximately 15% of full scale flow rate for all meters.
Gas Flow Meter FAQ
Common questions about selecting, installing, and specifying RCM Flo-Gage gas flow meters.
Application & Gas Compatibility
Sizing & Selection
Installation & Piping
Options & Accessories
Have a gas application question not covered here?
Our engineering team is available Mon–Fri, 8:30am–4:30pm EST.
Typical Applications
Manufacturing
Compressed air consumption monitoring per machine or department
Automotive
Air tool supply lines and paint booth air flow verification
Food & Beverage
Nitrogen blanketing and CO₂ carbonation flow control
Semiconductor
Process gas (N₂, Ar, O₂) distribution monitoring
Welding & Fabrication
Shielding gas (argon, CO₂, helium) flow measurement
Laboratories
Instrument air and specialty gas supply verification
Utilities
Natural gas and LP gas consumption sub-metering
HVAC
Pneumatic control air supply monitoring
Specifications
| Specification | Standard | Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Series | Series 7000 (FNPT threaded) | Series 8000 (Wafer, 150/300 class flanges) |
| Housing | UV Stabilized Polycarbonate | Aluminum |
| Body | Bronze | Monel / 316SS |
| Bellows | Bronze | Monel / 316SS / Inconel |
| Seals | Buna N | Viton / EPR / Teflon |
| Crystal | Polycarbonate | Glass |
| Gear Movement | Bronze | 316SS |
| Accuracy | ±3% F.S. | ±3% F.S. |
| Repeatability | ±1% F.S. | ±1% F.S. |
| Maximum Pressure | 180 psig (12.6 kg/cm²) | 400 psig (28.1 kg/cm²) |
| Minimum Pressure | 10 psig (0.67 kg/cm²) | 10 psig (0.67 kg/cm²) |
| Maximum Temperature | 212°F (100°C) | 350°F (177°C) |
| Minimum Temperature | -30°F (-34°C) | -80°F (-62°C) |
Services Not Recommended
- Resins, paints or monomers which can form solid deposits in the piping system.
- "Super-solvents" which attack most available elastomers.
- Sulfuric acid in any concentration.
- Foams which tend to have inconsistent densities.
- Toxic substances requiring hermetically sealed enclosures.
- Fluids with viscosity above 500 centipoise.
- Pumping systems using piston pumps which produce non-steady flow conditions.
- Gravity-fed systems having less head than the pressure loss across the meter at normal operating conditions.