Types of water meters: overview of different types

When it comes to tracking and controlling water use in commercial, industrial, and residential settings, water meters are essential. These gadgets track how much water is used, giving useful information for conservation and billing purposes.

Water meters come in a variety of forms, each intended to meet specific requirements and uses. The mechanical, digital, and smart water meters are the most widely used varieties.

Conventional mechanisms like gears and dials are used by mechanical water meters to function. They are dependable and have been measuring water flow accurately based on internal component rotation for decades.

Conversely, electronic sensors are used by digital water meters to gauge water usage. These meters integrate into automated systems for real-time monitoring and have a digital display of readings that makes them easier to read.

The most recent development in water meter technology is represented by smart water meters. These gadgets send data wirelessly to utilities and customers in addition to measuring water usage. This feature makes it possible to remotely monitor and analyze patterns of water consumption, which helps with leak detection and effective water management.

The best kind of water meter to choose will depend on a number of factors, including desired data integration level, budgetary restrictions, and accuracy requirements. From the sophisticated features of smart meters to the ease of use of mechanical meters, each type has its own advantages.

In conclusion, knowing the distinctions between mechanical, digital, and smart water meters can assist professionals and consumers in choosing water meters that will ensure effective management and efficient water use.

Existing types of water meters

It is impossible to select the best water consumption monitoring device without understanding the features of the various models.

The following categories of water meters are separated based on how the devices function:

• tachometer;
• vortex;
• electromagnetic;
• ultrasonic.

Every kind has unique features in its design. Let’s examine each item in more detail.

Knowing the different kinds of water meters makes it clear how important they are for accurately gauging water use in a variety of contexts. Modern ultrasonic and electromagnetic meters offer unique features tailored to specific needs, whether for industrial, commercial, or residential applications. Traditional mechanical meters are replaced by these models. The functions, advantages, and factors to be taken into account when selecting the best meter for water management are all clearly outlined in this article.

Features of tachometer counters

The most popular kind of water meter is this one. They function according to a basic idea.

Positive and negative characteristics

Water meters that operate mechanically are small. They can be installed in out-of-the-way locations without detracting from the room’s interior design. These gadgets can be purchased at a cost that most customers can afford thanks to their straightforward design. Their readings are not significantly off.

The ensuing attributes are deemed detrimental:

• blade wear;
• sensitivity to impurities present in water;
• dependence of water meter readings on the magnetic field;
• inability to record instantaneous flow;
• presence of moving elements in the flow chamber.

The meter can survive up to 12 years even with flaws if you adhere to the verification schedule. External power supplies are not needed for the device to function.

Operating principle and design

The impeller is the meter’s primary component. Its axis is orientated perpendicularly to the direction of the water supply. A device of this kind has a nominal diameter of no more than 50 mm.

An avalanche of water flows through the impeller in a circular motion. Each is followed by a specific volume of liquid being poured through the apparatus. The impeller rotates more quickly the more pressure the water generates.

The gearbox provides information about the number of revolutions to a sensitive counting mechanism, and the dial indicates any changes.

Impeller-equipped devices can be single-jet, multi-jet, or combined. Water is first delivered in a single stream to the input blades. A magnetic coupling transmits a torsional impulse to the counting unit’s indicator. Installing these meters on hot water pipelines with a cross-section of 15 to 30 mm is advised by experts.

The flow in multi-jet models is divided en route to the impeller. When the same force has an effect on the blades, the measurement error reduces. Flow turbulence is totally eliminated in this scenario.

Installation of the device is intended for cold water pipes with a maximum diameter of 50 mm. In the event that verification is necessary, this water meter is ergonomic and simple to assemble and disassemble.

A combined type tachometer device is installed when there is a need to expand the coverage of water use measurements. It is acknowledged that one counter activates in response to a change in flow rate. The changeover happens on its own.

There is only one measuring device, and because it is hermetically sealed and has great accuracy, it functions even when there is flooding. When the pipe diameter exceeds 50 mm, the device’s design incorporates a rotating turbine in lieu of an impeller. The water meter in this instance is mounted parallel to the main line’s axis. The inlet is the best location for its installation.

These meters are installed on industrial pipelines that carry large amounts of water and have a cross-section of up to 500 mm. A specific fairing controls the flow’s direction and angle.

Dry-running and wet-running devices

Tachometric water meters are classified as dry-running or wet-running depending on where the counting device is located. In the first instance, the liquid has no effect whatsoever on the counting mechanism. It receives rotational motion from the impeller through a unique magnetic clutch.

An impenetrable partition keeps corrosion away from the mechanism. Although the model is relatively expensive, it can be used even in situations where hot water is provided, which frequently contains large amounts of foreign impurities.

Furthermore, the device’s reading accuracy is extremely high. In case the system requires remote data collection, it is possible to integrate a pulse output device.

The measuring unit and the information-gathering module can be placed at any distance apart.

The counting unit in a wet-running device comes into constant contact with soiled liquid. Its service life is adversely affected by this. A filter is put in front of the meter to remedy the situation.

Electromagnetic water meters

Without power, this kind of equipment cannot function. Its operation is based on water’s ability to conduct electricity.

A liquid’s characteristics change when it passes through an artificially created magnetic field; sensors capture this, and the information is shown on the display. This kind of counter is pricey. If the pipes are clear of scale, it functions well and lasts a long time. Electromagnetic devices are rarely used because such conditions are uncommon.

Main pros and cons

If the primary benefit of electromagnetic water meters is their high reading accuracy, then their primary drawback is their installation complexity. They require a power supply. The device will cut off the water supply, leaving the house without water in the event of an electrical outage.

Among the benefits are the following:

• large measurement range;
• absence of moving elements in the flow chamber;
• instant display of consumption;
• data archiving.

Water pressure resistance does not significantly increase when a meter is installed. It is frequently installed on low pressure pipelines as a result.

The meter’s susceptibility to flow turbulence and the uneven distribution of liquid velocity across its diameter are among its drawbacks.

Features of installing an electromagnetic meter

One thing to keep in mind when installing such a meter is filters. Given that the magnet draws in metal particles from the water, they have to be in the system. Installing both a magnetic and a standard mud filter is a good idea.

Two electrodes that are placed diametrically and in contact with water receive the measurement signal. Install meters in the toilet and bathroom’s metal-plastic, metal-plastic pipes.

Ultrasonic type of devices

These meters are multipurpose; with their assistance, one can compute the volume of gas and steam in addition to measuring water consumption. They require a power source to operate because, like electromechanical devices, they have an electronic counting device that would not work at all without it.

The impact of ultrasonic vibrations on the water flow is used to take measurements. Following the sensor’s analysis of the resulting acoustic effect, the reading is shown on the display.

They are installed both inside and directly on the water pipe’s exterior. If the first installation method is used, the device can be quickly relocated to a different location for temporary control or to calibrate other meters. These kinds of devices are usually found in industry.

Because of their low power consumption, ultrasonic water meters can be used in a variety of settings. The gadget is shielded from interference quite well. With these devices, the measurement error is limited to 1% at most.

These water flow meters are practically unbreakable because of their design, which eliminates any parts that could break. The most recent models of water meters, including ultrasonic ones, effectively blend accuracy, good metrological qualities, and a reasonable price.

Their lithium batteries last over five years, and they come with that feature. Additionally, they offer automatic adjustment at predetermined intervals, which improves measurement accuracy.

One of the equipment’s drawbacks is that it requires an external power source or is autonomous. The presence of air bubbles in the water reduces measurement accuracy, which is another drawback.

Vortex water meters and their features

Only pure, free of abrasive particles that could skew readings, water in the pipeline is necessary for vortex meters to function steadily.

Every vortex counter has a body that is streamlined. It is put inside a pipe and prevents water from flowing through it. A highly sensitive sensor is located further in the flow’s direction. It responds to even the smallest changes in flow pressure.

Vortices form outside of the obstruction when the fluid’s velocity reaches a particular threshold. They flow with the flow, forming alternately from various sides. Zones of high and low pressure appear simultaneously. This results in the creation of a "vortex path" phenomenon.

The frequency at which vortices form is proportional to the flow’s velocity. The volume of water flowing during the corresponding period is equal to the distance between adjacent vortices. Consequently, the number of vortices multiplied by the volume yields the flow rate. The higher the flow rate, the more frequently vortices form.

The gadget has an eight-year service life on average. The primary goal is to control technological procedures. Using such devices in an apartment’s plumbing layout is illogical.

The meaning of inscriptions and symbols on meters

Water meters have inscriptions and symbols that reveal a lot about the apparatus. As a result, in order to ascertain the product’s specific capabilities and ascertain which meter is appropriate for a given set of circumstances, you must learn how to interpret them.

Devices are assigned four primary designations by manufacturers:

1. Qmax is the maximum flow rate that does not cause errors in the operation of the device. The device can operate at this flow rate for a maximum of 1 hour. This must be followed by a break.
2. Qn – optimal flow rate for a water meter. Compared to its maximum capacity, this parameter is 50% less. In the case when a volume of water equal to the normal flow rate passes through the body of the device, it will function flawlessly. The device will be able to pass verification and will not have to be replaced with a new one for a long time.
3. Qmin – the lowest flow rate, which gives the smallest error when measuring water flow.
4. Qt is the pressure at which it is unprofitable to operate a water measuring device, since it begins to operate with a significant error. At the same time, it is difficult to predict what sign the error value will have – it can be either a minus or a plus to the actual readings.

The water meter’s body is marked with the maximum temperature at which it can function in addition to these designations.

Cold water flow meters have a blue housing and the number 40 °C written on them. Hot water flow meters have either a red or, less frequently, a black casing. There will undoubtedly be the inscription 90 °C on this background.

You must choose the meter marked 150 °C if water that is hotter than 90 °C is supplied under pressure from a central source.

Tips for choosing a flow meter

When making your selection, keep in mind the types of water meters that are offered for sale and consider why the meter will be installed. Expensive meters are not required if installing it is required to determine how many cubic meters of cold water have been used.

Here, a straightforward "wet" tachometer option works well; all you need to do is first confirm its class with the water supply company.

A "dry" version of a tachometric water meter is appropriate for use in a hot water pipeline to prevent the measuring module from being harmed by water impurities. It is preferable to select a combined device for a system where the flow is characterized by abrupt changes.

The meter’s accuracy class increases with decreasing allowable error. The range of this parameter is "A" to "D." The accuracy class "B" applies to commonplace devices that are intended for horizontal installation. Class "A" is appropriate for installations that are vertical. For electronic meters installed in any position, class "C" is standard.

While considering the technical aspects of choosing a meter is required, it’s also critical to consider the device’s compliance at the time of installation with respect to the location.

Consider carefully what body form will "fit" into the available space if the gadget must be concealed in a niche, such as beneath the bathtub or under the toilet. A short-bodied device is appropriate in one situation, and an elongated one in another.

When making a decision, the meter’s orientation with respect to the floor is also crucial. It can be arranged either horizontally or vertically. The fact that the data is simple to read is crucial. When the counting mechanism of the device is oriented horizontally, the product itself ought to be in this position.

Certain water meters have a digital display that needs to be mounted vertically in order to take readings. Payments are made to separate bills for hot and cold water because they are priced differently.

The best counter manufacturers

Water meters, both imported and domestic, are abundant in the market. The top domestic manufacturers are thought to be:

• "Betar";
• "Economy";
• "Meter"
• "Staroruspribor";
• "Triton".

These companies’ devices perform well on the tasks assigned to them and are less expensive than those made in other countries. The most important thing is that they have been maximally adjusted to our realities.

The following imported models have gained the most confidence from customers:

• Zenner (Germany);
• Wehrle (Germany);
• Actaris (France);
• Viterra (Germany);
• Siemens (Germany).

They are historically very reliable and have a wide calibration interval. It is important to remember that the water they are intended for is of a higher caliber than what is contained in our water pipes.

It therefore doesn’t hurt to see if there are service centers nearby so that you are ready for breakdowns.

It’s important to comprehend the various varieties of water meters before selecting the one that best suits your needs. Turbine and volumetric water meters are examples of mechanical water meters that are dependable and reasonably priced. In residential settings, where precision and ease of use are crucial, they function effectively.

Water meters with ultrasonic and electromagnetic sensors provide accurate measurements and long-lasting performance for larger structures or industrial uses. These meters have no mechanical parts and use cutting-edge technology to measure water flow accurately, requiring less maintenance and lasting longer.

Think about things like water flow rates, installation needs, and maintenance expenses when choosing a water meter. Although they are easy to install and maintain, mechanical meters may require replacement more frequently. On the other hand, ultrasonic and electromagnetic meters have greater initial costs but require less maintenance.

In the end, the decision is based on your financial situation and particular needs. Depending on your usage habits and long-term objectives, speaking with a water meter specialist can assist you in making an informed choice. The appropriate choice of water meter for a residential, business, or industrial setting guarantees correct billing, effective water management, and eventually lower operating costs.

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