Vortex flowmeters work on the Karman Vortex Street principle.
A fixed bluff body (vortex generator) is installed in the center of the measuring tube. When fluid (liquid, gas or steam) flows through this obstacle, the flow is separated on both sides of the bluff body. Regular, alternating vortexes will continuously shed from the two sides at a fixed frequency, forming a series of vortex rows called the Karman vortex street.
The frequency of vortex separation has a strict linear proportional relationship with the average flow velocity of the fluid within a certain Reynolds number range. The higher the flow velocity, the higher the vortex shedding frequency.
Built-in piezoelectric sensors detect the tiny pressure pulse signals produced when each vortex hits the sensing element. The converter amplifies, filters and processes these pulse signals, then converts the frequency signal into instantaneous flow rate and cumulative total flow volume.
Since there are no rotating or movable mechanical parts inside the meter, mechanical abrasion and jamming problems are avoided, bringing stable long-term measurement performance.
Post time: Jun-18-2026