ADVANCES IN ON-SITE VERIFICATION OF WATER FLOW METERS. THE INTELLIGENT APPLICATION OF ELECTROMAGNETIC INSERTION PROBES

摘要

The aim of this paper is to present recent advances which have been made in applying electromagnetic insertion probes to the verification of bulk supply water flowmeters. Building on laboratory work undertaken to define the baseline calibration of this type of insertion probe the authors illustrate how Traceability, Performance and Productivity have been dramatically improved through the use of intelligent software. Key elements that are discussed relate to the increasing demands of Water Industry Regulators for the introduction of Quality Management principles at the Site and Data level and how this has crucially influenced development of the applied technology. The on-site verification of bulk supply meters in the range 150mm and above is illustrated in detail and the current technique is contrasted with existing methods to show how major improvements have been achieved; delivering improved Traceability, uncertainty, performance and productivity. The authors will conclude by suggesting that through the use of the improved methods described the case for wider use of the electromagnetic insertion flowmeter, not only as the primary tool for verifying bulk water supply meters but also as a valid technique which can be applied in situations with poor hydraulics, can be made.