Fabricated Elbow Meter (FE)
± 4.00% Uncalibrated Uncertainty
Low Cost, Small Space Required
- Line Size: No limitations on line size
- Recommended Pipe Reynolds Number: Greater than 50,000
Space-Saving, Cost-Effective Flow Measurement for Challenging Installations
The fabricated elbow meter (FE) offers a low-cost solution for flow measurement in tight spaces where traditional flow elements like Venturi meters aren’t practical. Designed to use an existing 90-degree elbow as a differential-producing element, the meter enables accurate flow measurement without requiring long straight runs or added fittings.
Based on ASME Fluid Meters and decades of research, the FE elbow meter uses centrifugal pressure differences across the bend to infer flow rate. While not a substitute for a calibrated Venturi in high-accuracy applications, it performs reliably in retrofit or header systems where straight-pipe requirements can’t be met. When paired with flow lab calibration and secondary instrumentation, the meter delivers accurate, repeatable measurements even in non-linear flow profiles.
With no limitations on line size, the FE elbow meter is ideal for high-Reynolds-number liquid flow (greater than 50,000), and is best applied with calibration to improve accuracy beyond its standard ±2.00% uncertainty. It can be paired with secondary instrumentation and data characterization systems to accommodate the elbow meter’s non-linear response across a wide range of flows.
Elbow Meter Key Benefits:
- Ideal for Space-Constrained Systems: Enables flow measurement where no straight piping is available.
- Low Cost, High Repeatability: Economical to install with repeatability on the order of ±0.20%.
- Plug‑Resistant Design: No annular chambers, reducing the risk of plugging in dirty or solids‑bearing flows.
- High‑Velocity Flow Capability: Well-suited for accurate flow measurement in high‑velocity piping systems.
- No Moving Parts: Low maintenance and long service life.
- Minimal Pressure Loss: No additional head loss attributable to the meter.
- Flexible Orientation: Installs in any position and accommodates bi-directional flow.
- Rugged and Erosion Resistant: Available with plasma spray treatment for abrasive flow media.
- Scalable Across Line Sizes: Fabricated for virtually any pipe diameter with no size limitations.
- Custom Calibration Available: Flow lab calibration tailored to site conditions increases accuracy and reliability.
The FE elbow meter is ideal for flow measurement in space-constrained systems across industries such as water treatment, oil and gas, industrial processing, and municipal utilities. Common uses include raw and reclaimed water, flare gas, pumping stations, and distribution or billing lines.
Fabricated Elbow Meter Specifications
Uncalibrated: ± 4.00 beta dependent
Fabricated Elbow Meter Models
Model Types
- FVFE – Fabricated Venturi, Flanged, Elbow Meter
- FVTE – Fabricated Venturi, Threaded, Elbow Meter
- FVWE – Fabricated Venturi, Butt Weld Ends, Elbow Meter
Fabricated Elbow Meter Materials
Typical material selections for standard applications:
- Carbon Steel
- 304/316 Stainless Steel
- Chrome Moly
Other options for material selection:
- Aluminum
- Zirconium
- Hastelloy B & C
- Monel
- Duplex Stainless Steel
- Titanium
- Tantalum
- 321 Stainless Steel
Fabricated Elbow Meter Certifications
PFS is a contributor to various international standards committees, fully supporting our staff’s memberships to these commissions.
Individual products follow relevant industry regulations, including requirements specific to the oil and gas, water/wastewater, and power generation industries.
PFS maintains the following certifications, standards & compliances:
- ISO 9001
- AGA
- ASME S & U
- API
- ANSI
- European Pressure Equipment Directive (PED)
Applications
Wastewater & Water Treatment
FE elbow meters are ideal for raw water, reclaimed water, and influent/effluent measurement at treatment plants. Their ability to perform in space-constrained piping systems makes them well-suited for retrofits, pump stations, and utility metering where long straight runs are unavailable.
Oil & Gas
In oil and gas environments, FE elbow meters are used to monitor process flow and flare gas in systems where traditional meters cannot be installed due to layout constraints. Their rugged design and minimal pressure loss make them a practical solution for upstream, midstream, and refining operations.
Municipal & Commercial Utilities
In municipal water distribution and commercial utility systems, FE elbow meters provide a compact and cost-effective option for flow monitoring in billing, service line, and distribution applications. Their flexible orientation and scalable design suit a wide range of pipe sizes and flow rates.
Industrial Facilities
FE elbow meters support flow monitoring in general industrial processes where elbows already exist in the piping layout. They provide dependable measurement with minimal installation impact, making them ideal for header systems, cooling loops, and equipment tie-ins.
Industry-Leading Elbow Meter Supplier Since 1983
Application Support for Challenging Installs
PFS provides expert guidance for space-constrained and non-standard piping systems where traditional flow meters can’t be used. From design review to calibration planning, we help ensure reliable, repeatable performance for every elbow meter installation.
Over 40 Years of Proven Expertise
With decades of experience in differential pressure flow measurement, PFS specializes in engineered solutions for tough applications. Our elbow meters are trusted in real-world environments where accuracy and adaptability are critical.
Certified Quality You Can Trust
PFS maintains ISO 9001, ASME S & U, and PED certifications, with CRN available. Our elbow meters are built and calibrated in-house to meet the quality and compliance needs of industrial and utility flow measurement.
