In industries like industrial gas, medical oxygen supply, and chemical processing, accurate oxygen flow measurement is not just a technical need—it’s a matter of safety. Due to oxygen’s high reactivity and combustibility, choosing the right flow meter requires more than just precision; it demands strict adherence to material, design, and certification standards.
This article provides a professional guide on how to select an oxygen flow meter, focusing on safety, compatibility, and performance.
Explore our product thermal mass flow meter for oxygen.
✅ 1. Core Selection Criteria for Oxygen Flow Meters
🔒 (1) Safety First – Prevent Combustion Risks
Oxygen under pressure or high flow speed can trigger combustion when it comes into contact with oils, dust, or reactive metals. Therefore, your flow meter must meet the following safety requirements:
- Oil-Free Treatment: All wetted parts must be completely oil-free and degreased according to standards like GB/T 3863.
- Anti-Static Design: Use housings made of stainless steel or aluminum alloy to prevent static buildup.
- High-Pressure Tolerance: Many oxygen pipelines operate above 10 MPa. Ensure the meter’s pressure rating is suitable.
📘 Related: What Is a Gas Flow Meter and How Does It Work?
⚗️ (2) Media Compatibility
- High-Purity Oxygen: Use meters with polished interiors and non-absorptive materials like 316L stainless steel or PTFE lining.
- Moist or Impure Oxygen: Add filters or pre-treatment systems to prevent clogging or corrosion of internal parts.
📏 (3) Accuracy and Flow Range Requirements
- Medical Applications: Require high precision (±1.5% or better). A thermal mass flow meter is usually preferred.
- Industrial Use (Steel, Chemical): Vortex or differential pressure flow meters are acceptable with ±2% accuracy.
🔄 2. Comparison of Common Oxygen Flow Meter Types
| Flow Meter Type | Accuracy | Suitable For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal Mass Flow Meter | ±1.0–1.5% | Medical, High-purity | No moving parts, excellent for low flow |
| Vortex Flow Meter | ±1.5–2.0% | Industrial, Steam | Good for medium/high flow rates |
| Differential Pressure | ±1.5–2.5% | Industrial gases | Robust, widely available |
| Float-type (Rotameter) | ±2–5% | Basic monitoring | Simple, cost-effective |
⚠️ 3. Key Considerations When Selecting an Oxygen Flow Meter
- Avoid Copper Components: Copper oxidizes in high-pressure oxygen, posing a fire hazard.
- Match the Flow Range: Keep velocity below 25 m/s to reduce heat from friction.
- Certification Requirements:
- ISO 13485 for medical applications
- ATEX / IECEx for hazardous industrial areas
- Installation Orientation: Some types, like rotameters, must be installed vertically to function properly.
🔧 4. Maintenance and Calibration Recommendations
- Regular Degreasing: Clean all wetted parts to prevent oil contamination.
- Use Oil-Free Tools: During installation and servicing, only use certified non-oiled tools.
- Annual Calibration: Especially critical for billing or medical-grade oxygen usage.
🧾 Conclusion
Choosing the right oxygen flow meter requires a deep understanding of the medium’s reactive nature and the operational context. From safety-certified materials and accurate measurement to compatibility with different gas types, every factor matters. Whether you’re in a hospital or a steel plant, prioritizing precision and safety ensures long-term reliability and risk-free operation.
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