How is steam flow typically measured in a pipe?

How is steam flow typically measured in a pipe?

• A. By monitoring the temperature changes in the pipe
• B. By measuring pressure drop across an orifice
• C. By calculating flow based on pipe diameter
• D. By observing the physical vibration of the pipes

Answer: (B)

Steam flow in a pipe is commonly measured by assessing the pressure drop across an orifice. An orifice flow meter consists of a plate with a hole (orifice) in it, placed in the flow path of the steam. As steam flows through the orifice, its velocity increases, which results in a pressure drop across the orifice. This pressure drop is directly related to the flow rate of the steam, and using Bernoulli's principle along with the orifice coefficient, the flow rate can be calculated with a specific formula. This method is widely used in industry due to its accuracy and reliability for measuring steam flow. It can effectively account for variations in the steam's temperature and pressure, making it a preferred method in many applications. Other methods for measuring steam flow may not provide the same level of precision or could be influenced by different factors less favorable for accurate measurement.

Steam flow in a pipe is commonly measured by assessing the pressure drop across an orifice. An orifice flow meter consists of a plate with a hole (orifice) in it, placed in the flow path of the steam. As steam flows through the orifice, its velocity increases, which results in a pressure drop across the orifice. This pressure drop is directly related to the flow rate of the steam, and using Bernoulli's principle along with the orifice coefficient, the flow rate can be calculated with a specific formula.

This method is widely used in industry due to its accuracy and reliability for measuring steam flow. It can effectively account for variations in the steam's temperature and pressure, making it a preferred method in many applications. Other methods for measuring steam flow may not provide the same level of precision or could be influenced by different factors less favorable for accurate measurement.