McCrometer has developed and patented a differential pressure-type flow meter for low-cost measurement applications in liquefied natural gas (LNG) processing, transportation, storage and distribution, according to a company release.

The V-Cone Flow Meter requires only 0-3 straight pipe diameters upstream and only 0-1 straight pipe diameters downstream for accurate flow measurement, using up to 70% less pipe than other differential pressure flow meters, the release said. Additionally, less pipe insulation is needed and the extreme cryogenic temperatures necessary in LNG transportation are maintained over a significantly shorter distance.

According to the company, the meter typically lasts 25 years and requires minimal maintenance. Its flow-conditioning function is built directly into its sensor design. A centrally located cone interacts with the fluid steam, reshaping the velocity profile to provide a stable signal that increases measurement accuracy, the release said.