Measuring Air Velocity with an Orifice Plate

In this set-up, the Series 2000 Magnehelic® gage measures higher air velocities as a function of the pressure drop across a sharp-edged orifice plate in the pipe. The pressure drops can be converted to air velocity using orifice plate data supplied by the manufacturer. Details regarding available sizes, ranges, installation, and limitations are available from orifice plate manufacturers and from standard handbooks. A Durablock® inclined manometer or Series A3000 Photohelic® differential pressure switch/gage can also be used. In addition to the visual reading gage, the Photohelic® switch/gage provides an alarm signal or shutdown control function. Pressure sensing taps should be located on the side or top of the pipe or duct to prevent condensation from draining into sensing lines or gages.