A flow meter has numerous applications for various different industries. It is a device that is used to measure the rate at which a quantity of liquid or gas moves through a pipe. It is important that flow meters provide accurate readings, especially in applications where there could be dangerous results to improper measurements. As such, they should frequently be calibrated.
There are various reasons why your flow meter could end up in need of calibration. If it is hit by something, it could be knocked out of normal order. Sometimes an issue is the result of an error in the initial installation process. If dirt collects, it can also throw off the flow meter. Some flow meters are subject to corrosion, and in some industries there is a higher risk than in others. The best way to ensure you have a proper calibration done is to get a professional to take care of it for you. There are some things to keep in mind when it comes to any calibration.
The Conditions
A flow meter should only be calibrated for the exact application it is going to be used for. If a liquid is being measured, make sure that while you have someone doing the calibration, it is at the same heat, density, and viscosity that it will be at during normal operation when you have. Also, make sure the equipment does not have any leaks or significant measurable changes in temperature.
Flow Meter Calibration Standards
Recognized standards are important because this allows for documentation that is comparable with other standards. It is important to be able to prove that your measurements match what is actually going on with the flow meter. Always be aware of what standard the company that is doing your flow meter calibration uses, and make sure it matches with what is officially recognized.
There are typically two types of standards that will be used in calibration. A primary standard measurement uses length, time, mass and other fundamental components. Once these have been implemented on the master meter, secondary standard calibration can take place. These use the master meter that has already been calibrated by primary standards in order to derive the flow rate of other meters. Secondary standards always have a degree of uncertainty, and this uncertainty increases with each additional input. If a calibration is done correctly, it will fall within an acceptable area of uncertainty, which is typically a 4-to-1 increase in accuracy.
Specifications
A calibrator can determine if your flow meter meets industry specifications. It is important to make sure that your flow meter is up to date and fits with the specifications provided by the manufacturer. If it is not, adjustments will have to be made and you may need to obtain replacement parts. If you are not sure if your meter needs replacement parts, it is better to see what the results of the calibration are before making any purchases.
Choose a Reputable Company
To make sure you are getting your calibration done properly, you will want to choose a company that works with flow meters constantly. If a company specializes in flow meters and can regularly perform calibrations in various different industries, they are a safer bet than a more general maintenance company.
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