flowproportional

Flowproportional is a term used to describe a method or system in which a quantity—such as a chemical dose, sample volume, or cost allocation—is varied in direct proportion to the flow rate of a process stream. The principle is used to maintain consistent relationships between flow and the quantity of interest under variable flow conditions.

In environmental monitoring, flow-proportional composite sampling collects sample material at intervals that are sized proportional to the prevailing flow. This approach yields a sample that better represents pollutant loads over time than time-based sampling, especially when discharge fluctuates.

In process control and water treatment, flow-proportional dosing adjusts the dosing rate of additives according to measured flow. If the flow doubles, the injected amount doubles to maintain a constant dose per unit of flow. This requires reliable flow measurement and responsive dosing equipment (flow meters, pumps, controllers).

In cost allocation or billing, flow-proportional methods distribute charges, chemical usage, or energy consumption among customers or branches based on observed flow through each segment. This aims to reflect usage more accurately when demand varies.

Implementation considerations include sensor accuracy, response time, calibration, and potential lag between flow changes and the quantity adjustment. Advantages include improved representativeness and fairness; limitations include higher hardware costs and complexity, and the need to address measurement errors and control stability.