Natural Gas Meter Factors

Temperature and Flow

• Most modern meters have built-in temperature measurement devices or include temperature gauge attachments, according to Energy Tech Pro. Nevertheless, exterior temperatures affect the flow of natural gas. Colder weather lowers the volume of natural gas, resulting in smoother flow. Volume increases the hotter the weather becomes and causes natural gas flow to slow. The median temperature for standard positive displacement gas meter flow is 60 degrees F.

Meter Pressures

• Natural gas meters are factored to handle various pressures, according to Energy Tech Pro. The most essential pressure is atmospheric. Nearly all modern meters are manufactured to operate at sea level pressure. Average sea level pressure is 14.73 psi. Additionally, meters factor in filtration pressure through gas line pipes. This pressure adds 0.25 psi to all pressure-related calculations.

Diaphragm Meters

• Diaphragm meters are the most common form of natural gas reading devices for private and public use, according to Energy Tech Pro. Energy is measured in cubic feet per hour. Most diaphragm meter size specifications boast anywhere between 175 CFH to 5,000 CFH. Larger diaphragm meters are typically for industrial purposes and can handle extensive natural gas flows.