Which statement about Bourdon-gauge flowmeters is true?

• A. It is affected by gravity
• B. It is not affected by gravity
• C. It requires gravity to function
• D. It cannot be used with oxygen cylinders

Answer: (B)

Bourdon-gauge flowmeters measure flow using pressure in a gauge-based mechanism rather than a floating indicator in a tapered tube. The flow reading comes from how the gas pressure pushes on a calibrated element, not from the weight of a column of gas. Because there’s no gravity-dependent float or buoyancy effect to alter the indication, the reading stays consistent regardless of orientation or gravity.

That’s why this type of meter isn’t influenced by gravity. It simply uses pressure and a valve or orifice to set and display flow. It can be used with oxygen cylinders, since the measurement relies on pressure and flow control, not on a vertically suspended column of gas.