Metering Function

Steam distribution systems require accurate flow measurement for allocating energy costs between departments, tracking consumption for efficiency programs, monitoring boiler performance, and supporting energy audits. Metering skids measure mass or volumetric flow with pressure and temperature compensation calculating actual steam energy content. Typical accuracy ±2-3% meets industrial steam metering requirements.

System Components

Complete skids include vortex, differential pressure, or thermal mass flow meters, temperature and pressure transmitters for steam property calculations, flow computer or totalizer calculating mass flow and energy content, condensate drain pot and trap assembly, isolation and bypass valving, and instrumentation panel with local display. Pre-assembled packages simplify installation in steam headers.

Meter Technology

Vortex meters provide reliable measurement without moving parts suitable for saturated or superheated steam. Differential pressure devices using orifice plates offer economical proven technology. Thermal mass meters measure directly at actual conditions. ERGIL selects technology based on steam conditions, flow range typically 500-50,000 lb/hr, and installation constraints.

Energy Calculation

Flow computers calculate steam mass flow from volumetric measurement using pressure and temperature inputs. Steam tables determine enthalpy enabling energy content calculation in BTU or kW. Totalizers accumulate mass and energy for billing periods. Data logging supports consumption analysis and optimization initiatives.

Applications

Industrial facility steam distribution monitoring consumption by building or process, steam turbine flow measurement for performance tracking, process heating system metering, heat exchanger steam supply monitoring, and any application requiring steam flow or energy measurement. Serves refineries, chemical plants, power generation, food processing, and manufacturing facilities.

Condensate Management

Steam metering requires condensate removal preventing two-phase flow affecting accuracy. Drain pots collect condensate with steam traps ensuring liquid discharge while retaining steam. Proper condensate handling maintains measurement reliability. Insulation minimizes heat losses maintaining steam quality.

Material Selection

Carbon steel or stainless steel construction suitable for steam service. Materials rated for operating conditions typically 50-600 psig and temperatures to 400°C. Flanged or threaded connections per piping standards. Expansion provisions accommodate thermal cycling during operation and shutdowns.

Performance Benefits

Accurate consumption data enables cost allocation and efficiency tracking. Energy measurement supports conservation programs. Reliable metering with appropriate technology selection. Compact skid design simplifies installation. Proven steam measurement technology with long service life.

Construction Standards

Design per ASME B31.1 power piping code. Proper meter installation with required straight pipe lengths. Condensate handling per steam system best practices. Complete documentation with calibration certificates and steam table calculations.

ERGIL steam metering skids deliver dependable flow and energy measurement enabling effective steam system management and cost allocation in industrial facilities.