ABB Electromagnetic Flowmeter Selection Guide

Choosing the Right ABB Electromagnetic Flowmeter

Choosing a flowmeter is not just about matching the instrument to the pipe diameter. The liquid, operating conditions, installation, and measurement requirements all affect which model will suit the application.

For example, a meter used to monitor water distribution may have different requirements from one measuring a corrosive process liquid inside a manufacturing plant.

ABB electromagnetic flowmeters are available for different industrial and water applications. The important part is identifying the right configuration before placing an order.

Here are the main points to check when selecting a flowmeter for an Australian industrial application.

1. Start With the Liquid Being Measured

The first question is simple: What liquid will pass through the flowmeter?

Electromagnetic flowmeters work with electrically conductive liquids. They measure flow using the voltage generated as the liquid moves through a magnetic field.

They can be suitable for applications involving:

• Potable and process water
• Wastewater and effluent
• Conductive chemical solutions
• Industrial process liquids
• Slurries, where the specific meter and application are suitable

However, not every liquid is suitable. Very low conductivity can prevent reliable measurement, and the minimum conductivity requirement depends on the selected instrument.

Before choosing a model, confirm the liquid’s conductivity, chemical composition, and whether it contains suspended solids or entrained gas.

2. Select the Correct Flowmeter Family

ABB’s electromagnetic flowmeter portfolio includes solutions for water and wastewater as well as industrial process applications. The application should guide the selection rather than the model name alone.

These are starting points, not final recommendations. Confirm the exact model, sensor, transmitter, and available options against the operating conditions and current product documentation.

You can review the available options on the ADYAA electromagnetic flowmeters page.

3. Check the Pipe Size and Flow Range

A flowmeter should be selected for the actual flow conditions, not just the existing pipe size.

A pipe’s nominal diameter does not tell you whether the flow will remain within the meter’s suitable operating range. Both minimum and maximum flow rates matter.

Collect these details before requesting a quotation:

• Existing pipeline diameter
• Minimum, normal, and maximum flow rates
• Expected flow variation during operation
• Whether the flow is continuous or intermittent
• Required measurement units and output signals

Why does this matter?

If the flowmeter is poorly matched to the application, low-flow readings may not meet the required measurement performance. Operating near the upper limit can also create problems if the process flow increases.

Do not reduce or increase the meter size based on a general rule alone. Use the manufacturer’s sizing guidance and check the expected flow velocity and measurement range.

4. Choose the Right Liner and Electrode Materials

The materials in contact with the liquid are important, particularly when measuring chemicals, abrasive liquids, or wastewater.

Two areas deserve attention: the liner inside the measuring tube and the electrodes that detect the measurement signal.

Liner material

The liner separates the conductive liquid from the meter’s measuring tube. Its suitability depends on the liquid’s chemical properties, temperature, pressure, and potential abrasion.

Electrode material

The electrodes contact the process liquid. Their compatibility with the liquid can affect service life and measurement reliability.

When checking materials, provide the supplier with:

• The liquid’s exact name and concentration
• Normal and maximum operating temperature
• Operating and design pressure
• Any cleaning chemicals used in the process
• Details of abrasive solids or suspended particles

Avoid selecting materials based only on a broad label such as “water” or “chemical.” Two liquids in the same category can behave very differently.

5. Confirm Pressure and Temperature Limits

Every installation has operating limits. The selected flowmeter must suit the normal conditions as well as credible operating extremes.

Check the following before finalising a model:

• Minimum and maximum liquid temperature
• Normal and maximum operating pressure
• Pressure fluctuations or water hammer
• Process connection and flange standard
• Required pressure rating

For example, the published specifications for ABB’s FEP620 and FEW620 differ in areas such as liner options and temperature limits. These ranges should not be treated as interchangeable.

Always use the datasheet for the exact model and configuration. If the process conditions are close to a stated limit, ask for technical confirmation before ordering.

6. Consider the Installation Conditions

Even a correctly selected flowmeter can perform poorly if it is installed incorrectly.

Review the pipeline layout and the conditions around the proposed installation point.

Check these practical details:

• Is the pipe expected to remain full during measurement?
• Is there sufficient straight pipe length for the selected configuration?
• Can the meter be installed in the required orientation?
• Is proper grounding or bonding available?
• Will the location be exposed to flooding, outdoor weather, or washdown?
• Is the display accessible for inspection and maintenance?

Electromagnetic flowmeters do not have moving parts in the measuring tube, but they still need correct installation and suitable process conditions.

Follow the model-specific installation manual for grounding, pipe layout, and mounting requirements.

7. Decide What Signals and Diagnostics You Need

The flowmeter should also work with the plant’s control and monitoring system.

A basic installation may need a standard analogue output, while a more connected plant may require digital communications, additional diagnostics or integration with existing automation equipment.

Confirm whether the application requires:

• 4–20 mA output
• HART or another supported communication protocol
• Totalised flow readings
• Empty-pipe or electrode diagnostics
• Local display or remote monitoring
• Verification and maintenance functions

Do not assume every feature is included in every model. Available communications and diagnostics depend on the selected transmitter and configuration.

8. Accuracy: Look Beyond One Number

Accuracy is important, but the figure in a product specification should not be considered in isolation.

Check how the stated performance applies to your required flow range, the selected meter configuration, and the operating conditions. Also consider installation quality, grounding, liquid conductivity, and whether the pipe remains full.

When comparing specifications, ask:

• Is the stated figure standard or an optional configuration?
• Does it apply across the flow range you need?
• What installation conditions must be met?
• Are calibration documents or verification functions required?

The best choice is the meter that meets the application’s measurement requirements—not automatically the one with the smallest advertised error figure.

9. A Practical Checklist Before Requesting a Quote

Having the right information ready can reduce back-and-forth during flowmeter selection.

Use this checklist when preparing an enquiry.

• Liquid name and composition
• Conductivity, if known
• Minimum, normal, and maximum flow rate
• Pipeline diameter
• Operating pressure and temperature
• Required liner and electrode compatibility
• Pipe and flange standards
• Installation environment
• Required outputs and communication protocols
• Accuracy and diagnostic requirements

If some details are unknown, provide what is available and identify the missing information. A technical review can help determine what needs to be confirmed.

How ADYAA Can Help With Flowmeter Selection

Selecting an ABB electromagnetic flowmeter starts with understanding the application, not simply choosing a product number.

ADYAA supports flow measurement requirements for Australian industrial applications. Share your process details, and the team can help you review the relevant product options and documentation.

Explore the ADYAA electromagnetic flowmeter range or browse flow instrumentation.

You can also visit the ADYAA datasheets page to look for available technical documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What information is needed to select an ABB electromagnetic flowmeter?
   You need the liquid properties, flow range, pipe size, operating pressure and temperature, installation conditions, and required outputs.
2. Can an electromagnetic flowmeter measure every liquid?
   No. The liquid must have sufficient electrical conductivity for the selected meter.
3. Should the flowmeter diameter always match the pipe diameter?
   Not necessarily; sizing should be checked against the actual flow range and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. What is the difference between FEW620 and FEP620?
   FEW620 is intended for water and wastewater applications, while FEP620 is designed for industrial process applications.
5. Why are liner and electrode materials important?
   They must be compatible with the liquid and its operating conditions to help prevent material damage and measurement problems.
6. Where can I find technical specifications for an ABB flowmeter?
   Check the official datasheet and operating instructions for the exact model and configuration.