Production Processes Group

- research into manufacturing technology

Roger Baker - Current Research

Flowmeter calibration rig

flowmeters installed in pipe run	weigh tank above sump tank with circulation pump

These photographs are of the flowmeter research rig recently rebuilt in the IfM. It uses a calibrated weigh tank to check the mass flow and makes use of two Coriolis flowmeters, with calibration certificates from nationally accredited flow labs in two countries, as a check. It has provided a case study in the development of a high precision flow rig as would be appropriate for a flowmeter manufacturer, and it has been used to examine the effects of manufacturing variation on various designs of meter. The work has been undertaken in close collaboration with the industry.

Design and manufacture of flowmeters

Recent research has, particularly, centred on the development of models to understand the reasons for variation in electromagnetic, ultrasonic and Coriolis flowmeters. Despite development of these meters to a high level of accuracy there may still be variations in performance of flowmeters in industrial applications.

The effect of manufacturing variation on instrument performance

We have used modelling and testing of flowmeters to identify the aspects of the manufacturing process which are causing variation in performance, to investigate how to control those processes.

In-service verification and e-calibration

Flowmeter verification links into the manufacture since verification will often depend on identifying changes in performance since manufacture and calibration. Recent work has, particularly, been concerned with the electromagnetic flowmeter. The flowmeter industry is pioneering verification methods for use in meters installed in the field. These suggest possible further development of methods for in-situ calibration and e-calibration.

Aims

• Reduce instrument uncertainty
• Increase range
• Reduce manufacturing cost
• Reduce manufacturing variation
• Reduce/eliminate need for post-manufacture calibration

Further Information

Roger C. Baker