Metering Water Flow Without Cutting a Pipe: Keyence Clamp-On Flow Sensors
Clamp-on flow sensors measure water through the pipe wall in about 60 seconds, with no cutting, no downtime, and no pressure loss. Here is where they fit.
Read the article →Selection Guide
Ultrasonic Water Meters
Ultrasonic and inline water meters for measuring water flow in a variety of piping materials. Essential for manufacturing — main incoming water, sewer discharge, ingredient water, cooling tower water, and sanitation. Implementing industrial water meters enables precise tracking of water consumption, facilitating rapid identification of leaks, wastage, and inefficiencies within production processes.
Why it matters
Accurate water metering is critical for industrial manufacturing facilities aiming to enhance operational efficiency, reduce utility expenses, and promote sustainable water use. By investing in water metering technology, manufacturers gain valuable insights into water usage patterns, enabling proactive management, accurate cost allocation, and improved compliance with environmental standards. Facilities benefit from reduced water consumption, minimized downtime, lower operational costs, and stronger sustainability credentials.
Key selection factors
- Flow rates: minimum, maximum, and typical usage patterns — proper sizing ensures accurate readings and optimal performance
- Pipe size and material (affects ultrasonic sensor coupling)
- Water quality — presence of debris, suspended solids, or contaminants (critical for meter type selection)
- Accuracy requirements and operating pressure/temperature
- Installation environment and maintenance accessibility
- Whether the application requires billing-grade vs. monitoring-grade accuracy
Meter types
Ultrasonic Flow Meters
Non-invasive, versatile for retrofitting existing pipes with minimal pressure drop. Ideal for 24/7 operations where shutdowns aren't possible. Clamp-on installation enables measurement without cutting or modifying existing pipes.
Electromagnetic (Mag) Flow Meters
Excellent accuracy for conductive fluids with no pressure drop. No moving parts, minimal maintenance, suitable for industrial/wastewater. Capable of measuring water with suspended solids, slurries, or wastewater.
Positive Displacement Meters
High accuracy at low flow rates (±0.5–1%). Direct volumetric measurement. Best for smaller pipes with clean water. Established design with consistent, dependable performance.
Turbine Water Meters
Cost-effective for moderate to high-flow clean water applications. Rapid response to flow changes for real-time monitoring. Compact and lightweight design suitable for tight spaces.
Installation guidelines
- Water meter installations should be performed by qualified professionals or licensed plumbers for safety, accuracy, and code compliance
- Ensure adequate straight pipe lengths upstream and downstream for accuracy
- Follow manufacturer instructions regarding meter orientation
- Include isolation valves for easy maintenance or future servicing
- For electromagnetic meters, ensure proper grounding and shielding from electromagnetic noise
- Maintain proper upstream filtration or conditioning where water quality requires it
Recommended approach
Clamp-on ultrasonic for retrofits and clean-water mains, electromagnetic for wastewater and conductive process streams, positive displacement for small low-flow lines, and turbine where cost-effective clean-water flow is the priority.
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Related reading
Clamp-On or Inline? How to Choose the Right Flow Meter for Your Facility
Clamp-on meters read flow through the pipe wall with no cutting. Inline meters sit in the flow path. How to choose for water, compressed air, and process.
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