Versatility Helps Drive Vortex Flowmeter Sales

The ability of vortex flowmeters to measure different types of fluids is among factors that have driven significant growth for the technology over the last few years, according to a recent study by Flow Research Inc. (www.flowresearch.com), Wakefield, Mass. The global market for vortex flowmeters totaled $224 million in 2009, says the study, which projects a 6.3 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the worldwide vortex flowmeter market through 2014.

By 2014, the vortex flowmeter market is projected to reach $303.7 million, according to the report, titled “The World Market for Vortex Flowmeters, 4th Edition.” The most rapid growth is occurring where new process plants are being built, primarily in China, the Middle East, and in developing Asian countries, Flow Research says.

Growth drivers

One cause for the projected growth stems from the versatility of vortex flowmeters, which can readily measure liquids, steam and gas. Only differential pressure flowmeters compare to vortex meters in their ability to measure different types of fluids. In addition, the American Petroleum Institute’s approval of a standard for using vortex flowmeters in custody transfer has continued to push sales upward. The study also finds that new companies are entering the vortex flowmeter market and existing single-variable vortex providers are entering the multivariable market.

 “Vortex meters withstood the economic downturn better than most other new-technology flowmeters because of their ability to measure steam as well as liquids and gas,” says Jesse Yoder, president of Flow Research. “Magnetic flowmeters cannot measure steam flow, and Coriolis and ultrasonic flowmeters are just beginning to be used for this purpose. Not only can vortex meters tolerate high process temperatures and pressures, but they can also measure steam flow at varying velocities. This gives them a leg up in a variety of industries, including oil and gas.”Flow Research, Inc. www.flowresearch.com