Flowmeter Selection

This Flowmeter Selection guide contains a comprehensive set of criteria to help you select the best Flowmeter solution available in the market.

Overview

The complex nature of process operations coupled with the large investments in assets by operating companies in the process industries make the need for automated process control greater than ever.  A key requirement for process control is the accurate and reliable measurement of gas and liquid flow.  Not all flow meter technology is suitable for all types of processes.  Different meters are required depending on such factors as pressure and temperature, as well as the material that is flowing.  For example, certain meters are better suited for hydrocarbon gases while others are designed to handle steam.  Also, considerations must be made as to the conditions of the flowing material to be measured.  Crude oil is typically very viscous and may contain entrained gases, or solid mater.

The trends associated with Industry 4.0, IIoT and other Digitalization must also be understood prior to selection of the technology to be deployed.  ARC has written a great deal about IIoT, Industry 4.0, and more to assist you in making the correct decision.

Selecting the correct flowmeters can be crucial to the operation of your plant.  Failure to measure flows correctly can influence product quality, plant efficiencies, and safe operation.

Fact-based Selection Process

The selection process begins with a definition of the scope of the project, including production processes, number of plants, and integration with other systems.  With this understanding, an organization can make the appropriate team member assignments.  Reviewing and editing the ARC-provided selection criteria to ensure that the list fits your needs requires a team effort.  ARC recommends that once the list is complete, you develop the appropriate questions for suppliers.  This organized and logical list of criteria can provide the basis for a Request for Information (RFI) that you send to suppliers you wish to consider.  Evaluating supplier responses and developing a final ranking of RFI results is also a team effort.  This process helps ensure inclusive, fact-based, impartial supplier evaluations and selections, while avoiding bias issues that typically hamper these activities.  Incorporating the ARC selection criteria helps reduce effort and timespan for a supplier selection process, providing faster time to benefit.

Flowmeter Selection Strategic Issues

ARC has been researching the flowmeter market for over two decades and we know the issues. The following are a few specifically covered in this Flowmeter Selection Guide.

Leverage Smart Sensors and Field Devices

Users need to focus on leveraging smart field systems to create value in process industries.  Smart sensors, as an enabler for IIoT, will play an increasingly important role in process automation in the future.  ARC also recommends that users work closely with suppliers and other stakeholders to better understand how to measure ROI and share best practices for intelligent device management.  Users should always seek opportunities to leverage industry standards such as ISA 108 (intelligent device management) to improve their own plants’ operational performance and help promote application of smart field systems and intelligent device management in their respective industries.

Focus on Asset and Energy Management

Improving energy and resource efficiency has also become an imperative for many manufacturing companies, one that reduces costs and increases efficiency when energy-intensive equipment creates bottlenecks in the plant.  Efficient energy usage has a positive impact on asset maintenance costs, equipment lifecycle costs, safety, and overall emissions.

Use Ethernet Connectivity for Greater Process Insight

Ethernet connection is generating a lot of interest in both the user and supplier communities.  Ethernet offers many benefits: lower total cost of ownership, improved adaptability, better security, widespread availability, and market familiarity.  It offers improved connectivity and functionality, allowing for easier access to measurement information.

More Flowmeter Selection Strategic Issues

  • Compatibility with current installed base of technology
  • Integration with IIoT strategies and business systems
  • Breadth and depth of supplier’s applications and related operations solutions
  • Support, training, and spares
  • Understanding the total cost of ownership for OEMs and end users
  • Architecture integration based on standards
  • Designs for maximum reliability
  • Supplier long term viability
  • Identify long term visions

Flowmeter Selection Table of Contents

Executive Overview

  • Industry Trends
  • Regional Trends

Strategies for Successful Adoption

  • Scope of Report Research
  • Key Issues Researched

Market Size and Forecast Definitions

Technology and Supplier Selection Criteria

  • Key Criteria Analysis
  • Fact-based Selection Process
  • Consider Best Practices by Suppliers
  • Selection Process Tools Available 

Market Shares Analysis

Leading Suppliers

  • Top Suppliers by Geographic Regions
  • Top Suppliers by Flowmeter Type
  • Top Suppliers by Industry Sectors

Market Share Figures

Profiles of Leading Suppliers
 

For More Information

For more information on this technology guide or to discuss how we can help you, please contact us.

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Representative End User Clients