Orifice Plates

Orifice Plates
The most common primary flow element is the concentric orifice plate, often called the “sharp-edged” orifice plate. Its main advantages are: low cost, accuracy, ease of installation, variety of construction material and quick delivery. Much test data has been compiled about orifice plates and, with the necessary information, an exacting design can be made providing for excellent metering accuracy. Engineered for each application, Meriam orifice plates are precision bored to exact dimensions with a sharp upstream edge to ensure accuracy. Orifice information is stamped on the unique handle. This handle is designed to facilitate storage of the plate without damage to the orifice bore. Standard Meriam orifice plates are 316 Stainless Steel. Monel, brass, P.V.C., and other materials are available. Meriam orifice plate dimensions meet ISA specifications. Meriam can provide blank orifice plates for your own boring, too.

Whether you size the bore or you want us to, consult Meriam for your next requirement.

Orifice Plates Design Criteria & Tolerances

Standards and specifications for orifice plates are listed by the ISA, AGA and ASME. All of these do not agree in all ways. Please indicate which specifications you require so we will provide your orifice plates the way you want them.

Edges – Square and sharp, will not reflect a beam of light when viewed without magnification.
Finish – 15-32 micro-inch roughness
Flatness – Flatness within 0.010 inches, per inch of dam height.
Bore – Orifice bore tolerance in strict accordance with AGA. Gas Measurement Committee Report No. 3, ASME Fluid Meters Committee Report, and with other societies’ recommendations.

Meriam has furnished many orifice plates for nuclear and fossil fired power plants, chemical plants, refineries, steel mills and to original equipment manufacturers for incorporation in their equipment and systems. Meriam can also provide readout instruments and accessories for complete flow metering installation.