Orifislevyjä

Orifislevyjä, also known as orifice plates, are simple yet effective flow restricting devices used in piping systems. They are essentially flat plates with a precisely machined hole, called an orifice, through which the fluid flows. The primary function of an orifice plate is to create a pressure drop across the plate, which can be used to measure flow rate or to control the flow itself.

The principle behind flow measurement using an orifice plate relies on Bernoulli's principle. As the fluid passes through the smaller opening of the orifice, its velocity increases, and consequently, its pressure decreases. By measuring the pressure difference upstream and downstream of the plate, the flow rate can be calculated using established formulas. This method is often referred to as orifice metering and is a widely used technique in various industries due to its cost-effectiveness and reliability.

Beyond flow measurement, orifice plates are also employed to reduce pressure within a system. By constricting the flow path, they dissipate energy, leading to a lower downstream pressure. This can be useful in applications where a high-pressure fluid needs to be supplied at a lower pressure to downstream equipment or processes. They are commonly found in industrial settings, chemical plants, and water treatment facilities. The design and size of the orifice, along with the upstream and downstream conditions, are critical factors in determining the plate's performance.