Collection:Magnetic flow meters for conductive and dirty liquids

A magnetic flow meter, also called an electromagnetic or mag meter, measures electrically conductive liquids. The liquid passes through a magnetic field, and its movement creates a small voltage that two electrodes pick up. The voltage rises with the flow speed. Because nothing turns or projects into the bore, the meter measures liquids with solids or fibers without clogging. It works only on conductive liquids, which covers most water-based process liquids but rules out oils and other non-conductive media.

When to choose a magnetic meter

Choose it for conductive liquids, especially dirty or particle-loaded ones that would foul a paddle wheel. The two models differ by whether the meter shows a reading on the device:

• Bürkert 8041: the basic insertion meter, with signal outputs but no display
• Bürkert 8045: adds a built-in display for a local reading

Both are insertion meters: the probe is fitted into the pipe through a mounting fitting, so no full-bore meter body is needed.

Frequently asked questions

Why pick magnetic over a paddle wheel meter?

A magnetic meter has no moving parts in the flow, so solids and fibers pass through without jamming it, and it is accurate even on dirty liquids. A paddle wheel needs a clean liquid to spin freely. The trade-off: a magnetic meter measures only conductive liquids.

Can a magnetic meter measure oil or pure water?

No. The measurement relies on the liquid conducting electricity. Oils, fuels, and demineralized water do not conduct, so a magnetic meter cannot measure them. For a clean non-conductive liquid, choose a paddle wheel meter.

What is the difference between the 8041 and the 8045?

Both measure the same way. The 8041 has no display and reports only through its output signals, which suits a panel-read setup. The 8045 adds a display for a reading at the pipe.