Rotameters

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. An instrument used to measure the flow rate of liquids or gases through a pipeline based on the rotation of a float
2. A type of flowmeter that provides a visual indication of flow level by the position of a float in a transparent tube
3. A device that operates on the principle of buoyancy, indicating flow rate through the rotation of a float within a calibrated scale

Etymology: "Rotameters" is the plural of "rotameter," an instrument that measures the flow rate of a liquid or gas by means of a float that rises inside a tapered tube. The float is lifted by the moving fluid, and its height against a scale shows how fast the fluid is passing. The singular form is the one that carries the meaning, so the plural simply refers to more than one such instrument, typically installed in a bank or row on a process line, such as a chemical plant or a laboratory setup.

Synonyms: flow meters, indicator meters