7 Common Applications for Oval Gear Flowmeters

Oval gear flowmeters are a type of positive displacement (PD) flowmeter known for their high accuracy, excellent repeatability, and ability to handle viscous liquids. Unlike turbine or electromagnetic flowmeters, oval gear meters measure flow by directly counting the volume of liquid passing through, making them ideal for clean, lubricating, and high-viscosity fluids.

Below are 7 common and practical applications where oval gear flowmeters deliver outstanding performance.
 

1. Lubricating Oil Measurement

One of the most widespread uses of oval gear flowmeters is in lubrication systems.
They precisely measure engine oil, gear oil, hydraulic oil, and other lubricants used in manufacturing equipment, compressors, and marine engines.

Why suitable:

• Handles thick, viscous fluids

• Provides stable readings regardless of temperature changes

• Excellent repeatability for dosing and consumption monitoring

2. Fuel Oil and Diesel Flow Monitoring

In industrial boilers, generators, and burners, accurate fuel consumption monitoring is essential for cost control and energy efficiency.

Oval gear flowmeters are widely used to measure diesel, heavy fuel oil (HFO), kerosene, and other hydrocarbons.

Advantages:

• Resistant to pulsating flow from fuel pumps

• Unaffected by changes in viscosity

• Compatible with non-conductive fluids that electromagnetic meters can’t handle

3. Chemical Dosing and Process Control

In the chemical and petrochemical industries, precise measurement is crucial for batch dosing, blending, and injection systems.

Oval gear flowmeters can measure solvents, additives, resins, and polymer solutions with high accuracy even under high viscosity or low flow conditions.

Typical benefits:

• Chemical compatibility with corrosion-resistant materials (e.g., stainless steel, PPS, PVDF)

• Stable performance at low flow rates

• Ideal for batch and continuous dosing processes

4. Paints, Inks, and Coatings

Paint and ink manufacturers rely on oval gear flowmeters for monitoring pigments, varnishes, and resins during mixing and filling operations.

Why it works well:

• Can handle sticky, viscous, and non-conductive fluids

• Compact design fits easily into production lines

• Provides reliable volumetric accuracy for formulation consistency

5. Food and Beverage Industry

In food processing, oval gear flowmeters are used for syrups, chocolate, edible oils, flavorings, and dairy products.

Key reasons:

• High viscosity handling capability

• Sanitary-grade designs available (with stainless steel and hygienic connections)

• Easy cleaning and CIP compatibility

6. Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Production

In pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturing, precise dosing of glycerin, essential oils, lotions, and other viscous ingredients is essential for quality assurance.

Benefits:

• Supports precise batching and mixing

• Compact, hygienic construction

• Provides traceable accuracy for regulated processes

7. Hydraulic and Industrial Equipment Testing

Oval gear flowmeters are often integrated into test benches, hydraulic systems, and lubrication monitoring systems.

They are used for:

• Measuring hydraulic oil flow in performance tests

• Monitoring lubricant usage and flow in industrial machines

• Detecting system efficiency and fluid loss

Conclusion

Oval gear flowmeters are a versatile and reliable solution for any application involving clean, viscous, or non-conductive liquids.
From fuel and oil monitoring to chemical dosing and food processing, they deliver exceptional accuracy, stability, and long-term durability — making them a top choice for process engineers and plant operators.

If you’re still unsure which type of mass flow meter is best for your application, consult a trusted supplier or explore more resources on flow measurement solutions.