An electromagnetic flow meter detect flow by using Faraday’s Law of induction. Inside an electromagnetic flow meter, there is an electromagnetic coil that generates a magnetic field, and electrodes that measure voltage induced by liquid flows.
One important factor that affects the lifespan of an electromagnetic flow meter is the choice of material for the electromagnetic coil.
Copper is a metal that is highly malleable and ductile. It is considered one of the best conductors of heat and electricity.
Copper wire is an extremely powerful and stable electrical conductor. It can withstand high temperatures, reducing the risk of failure due to overheating, subsequently prolonging the flow meter’s lifespan and resistance to damage. From the users’ perspective, this will be a cost effective and time saving solution, as it doesn’t need to be replaced nearly as often.
However, due to the high cost of copper, various alternative materials such as aluminium is used as substitute for copper for the electromagnetic coil. Due to lower electricity and heat conductivity compared to copper, these flow meters tend to have premature failure due to weaker electromagnetic field generated and the fact the coil is unable to dissipate heat generated as efficiently as copper.
Therefore, it is finally concluded that copper is still the best suited material to be used despite its higher cost compared to other materials. Manufacturers who try to skimp on the copper material cost usually will see the flow meter fail after a year of 24/7 operation. This cost-saving exercise by the manufacturer isn’t worth it as a proper well-made electromagnetic flow meter have an average lifespan of 30 years.
