Flowmeters - Turndown Ratios

Calculate turndown ratio (rangeability) for flow measurement devices like orifices and venturi meters. Turndown ratio compares the maximum flow to minimum flow to determine the span or range of flow measurement devices.

Turndown Ratio Calculator

Turndown ratio (Rangeability) is used to compare flow measurement devices. It is expressed as:

TR = qmax / qmin

Where:

  • TR = Turndown Ratio
  • qmax = maximum flow
  • qmin = minimum flow

The turndown ratio is typically expressed as a ratio (e.g., 4:1).

Example

For an orifice meter with maximum flow of 12 kg/s and minimum flow of 3 kg/s:

  • TR = 12 / 3 = 4 (expressed as 4:1)

Typical orifice plates have turndown ratios between 3:1 and 5:1.

Calculator

Inputs

Results

Turndown Ratio (TR)-- ratio
Device TypeMaximum FlowMinimum FlowTurndown RatioTypical Range
Orifice Plate12 kg/s3 kg/s4:13:1 to 5:1
Venturi Meter10 kg/s2 kg/s5:14:1 to 8:1
Example Device20 kg/s4 kg/s5:1Varies by design
Flowmeters - Turndown Ratios | MEPKit Engineering Tools | MEPKit