Orifice Plate

Creating a Measurable Pressure Difference

An orifice plate is a thin plate with a precisely sized opening installed in a pipeline to restrict fluid flow. As fluid passes through the opening, its velocity increases and a measurable pressure difference develops across the plate. This differential pressure can be used to determine flow rate or to create a controlled pressure drop within a system.

Applications:

• Flow Measurement: Creates a differential pressure that can be used to calculate or monitor fluid flow rate.
• Flow Control: Used as a flow-sensing element in control systems to help regulate flow according to preset requirements.
• Pressure Management: Introduces a defined pressure drop where additional hydraulic resistance is required.

Key Characteristics:

• Fixed Opening: The orifice diameter is selected according to the required flow and pressure conditions.
• Differential Pressure: The pressure difference across the varies with flow rate; a fixed opening does not maintain a constant flow rate or pressure drop.Simple Design: Contains no moving parts and can be integrated into various piping and control systems.
• Head Loss: The restriction creates additional resistance and therefore some permanent pressure loss.
• Operating Conditions: Reliable flow measurement requires sufficiently steady flow conditions. Pulsating flow or rapid fluctuations may affect measurement accuracy.