Mass Balance Flow Meters

Mass balance flow metering systems are designed to measure flow in applications where conventional meters fail, typically in difficult, multiphase or solids-laden media such as drilling muds, cement returns, mining slurries, or other unmeasurable or partially measurable streams. These systems rely on a combination of strategically placed flow, level, and density measurements to infer mass flow rate using the principles of mass conservation.

Unlike traditional inline meters, which can be affected by abrasive media, build-up, or changing compositions, mass balance systems provide reliable flow estimation without direct contact with the process stream. This makes them ideal for high-solids, high-viscosity, or corrosive processes, where physical flow metering would be costly, inaccurate, or impractical.

These systems are widely used in the oil & gas industry for closed-loop mud system monitoring, well control, and kick detection, particularly in managed pressure drilling (MPD) environments. They are also valuable in sectors such as mining, wastewater treatment, and industrial processing where slurry flows must be accounted for with precision.

The increasing complexity of drilling and process operations, combined with stricter regulatory oversight, has driven demand for accurate, auditable measurement of fluids that are otherwise “unmeasurable.” Mass balance systems offer a robust solution by calculating differential flow from inputs and outputs, typically integrating tank levels, pump flow rates, and return line readings to deliver a complete picture of flow dynamics.

ABLE Instruments’ MudMaster is a leading example of this technology. Designed specifically for challenging upstream oil & gas environments, MudMaster delivers real-time, high-accuracy flow data using a modular configuration of certified sensors and rugged control units. It supports early kick detection, improves safety, and helps reduce non-productive time (NPT) through continuous monitoring and diagnostics.

If your application involves complex, abrasive, or difficult-to-measure fluid flows, a mass balance flow metering system like ABLE MudMaster offers a reliable and field-proven solution.

Have a particular application or project in mind? We’d welcome a call on +44 (0) 1189 169 420 or email: info@247able.com