Flow Meter Calibration

UKAS Traceable Flow Meter Calibration

Our in-house calibration flow rig offers a UKAS traceable option to calibrate and check a flowmeters performance and accuracy.  Our engineers will perform a flow calibration where the flow meter is checked against a reference device such as a master flowmeter or master weigh scale.

Based in West Yorkshire, Flowquip’s reference flowmeters and weigh scales are calibrated annually and are traceable to independent UKAS calibration laboratories. Throughout the year Flowquip’s meter calibration technicians carry out periodic verification of the master reference devices by cross checking and recording results from each device.

The majority of flow meter calibrations are carried out using cool clean water on our in-house calibration flow rig. Although we can calibrate using light oils or Diesel fuel on our new oil rig. The water tank and pipe work are manufactured from stainless steel and the water is filtered and screened to ensure no debris can enter the system.

We use Flowquip regularly to calibrate our reference flowmeter’s. Their high level of calibration service has been invaluable to us over the years. Since day one Procon have had confidence that our equipment will be calibrated and returned to us in a timely manner. They have been an excellent supplier to us for well over 20 years and I would not hesitate to recommend their services
 
Steve Middleton
Senior Service Engineer – Procon Engineering

 

Calibration Enquiry Form

 

Quick Calibration Turnaround

Typical turnaround time for flow meter recalibration is two to three days; we also offer a same day turnaround and a ‘while you wait’ service at extra cost. Types of calibration include five points with two repeats as standard and ten points with electronic linearisation on request.

Why do I need to calibrate my flow meter?

Let’s talk about why flow meters require calibration. Firstly, the process of flow meter calibration involves comparing the meter to a reference device which is used as a calibration standard. The calibration of the reference device should be traceable back to a national or international standard.  Following that, the next stage involves adjusting the flow meter (if required) to counter act any errors.

If, like thousands of other facilities, you use flow meters in your process then it makes good business sense to make sure that the flow meters you are using are providing you with accurate and consistent information. Whatever fluid you are metering, it is highly likely that the liquids, gases or steam used in your processes are valuable commodities, therefore precise flow meter performance is an invaluable part of business planning and costing.

Over time, certain flow meters suffer from mechanical wear and others from electronic drift leading to inaccurate measurements, engineers rely on these flow meters to maintain the quality, safety and effectiveness of their process. The best way to prove your meter’s performance is to compare it with a calibrated reference device. Flowquip’s flow meter calibration service will determine if your meter is within specification, and in most cases perform a re-calibration if it’s not.

How often should I have my flow meter calibrated?

Your flow meter should be checked once a year, and at worst every two years. The calibration period will depend on the type of meter and the application and conditions, but where possible, between calibration periods it is good practice to carry out your own in-house flow meter performance checks. This can be done by filling a vessel of a known volume, or filling and weighing a vessel, and comparing it to the flow meter reading.

Before you make the decision to have your flow meter sent away and verified, it is important to know that it has been installed correctly in your pipe work system in the first place. A flow meter may perform well in a calibration, but if it is returned and fitted back in to a poor installation, then the stated accuracy of the calibration certificate may become null and void. Poor flow meter installations are common and are usually associated with insufficient straight pipe or the wrong size of pipe before and after the flow meter.

For 15 years we have been providing accurate flow meter calibrations. All our calibrations are checked against our reference meters which are calibrated annually and are traceable to independent UKAS calibration laboratories.

Flowquip can also repair many types and makes of flowmeter

Any manufacturers flowmeters can be accommodated in our flow rigs and we can quickly and easily connect with flanged, screwed or wafer process connections. Flowquip can also repair many types and makes of flowmeter provided that any spare parts required are still available.

All meters returned for calibration must be certified clean and be accompanied with a completed COSHH certificate.

Our calibration flow rig can be hired out (at our premises) for witness calibration or OEM product testing.

The uncertainty of measurement in our calibration processes is estimated to be 0.3% Please contact us on 01422 829920 or email sales@flowquip.co.uk for a COSHH certificate.

 

Flowquip are now able to offer same-day or next day turnaround on some flow meters, please contact us for prices.

We also offer flow meters for flow meter verification on Offshore installations, through our sister company, Flowhire. More information can be found here Flow Meter Verification and Instrument Calibration – Flowhire

Read our blog here on why flow meter recalibration is so important.