An apparatus to control the rate of flow of a stream of pressurized fluid
through a conduit. The apparatus comprises a flow measurement device
operatively connected to the conduit, a flow control device operatively
connected to the conduit, and a controller operatively connected to the
flow control device. The flow measurement device generates an output
signal proportionate to the rate of flow of fluid therethrough. The flow
control device includes an adjustable orifice wherein upon the opening of
the orifice a portion of the stream of pressurized fluid is independently
released from the conduit by the flow control device. The controller
receives the output signal generated by the flow measurement device and
causes the adjustable orifice in the flow control device to open or close
as necessary to maintain the flow of pressurized fluid as measured by the
flow measurement device within pre-determined limits.