Currently, the market offers a wide variety of water meter models from different manufacturers and in different price categories. How to avoid mistakes when choosing the diameter of a water meter and not throw money away when buying water meters that do not meet your requirements will be discussed in this article.
When buying water meters, a mandatory condition is to buy it new and from a reliable company with all obligations. Never - not from “private individuals” and not on the market, no matter how the sellers assure that there will be no problems with the “vodokanal”. It is possible that after purchasing and installing such a device, the controller of the water utility or management company will simply refuse to register it, seal it, and thereby accept it for registration. Forging a passport with seals and quality control stamps costs nothing in our time.
When purchasing a water meter from a reliable organization, be sure to check the product passport, in particular, the presence of marks on factory verification, established verification periods and manufacturer’s warranty obligations. Each meter must have its own individual serial number.
Criteria for selecting water meters:
- Installation parameters of devices. This means what nominal diameter (DN) of the pipe it is designed for (for example: in apartments pipes of 15 or 20 mm are used, at the entrance to a private house there can be up to 25 - 32 mm).
- Mounting length of the meter. This is a standard value that is indicated in the manufacturer’s device data sheet. It is necessary to evaluate in advance the location of the intended insertion of devices.
- The capabilities of metering devices must correspond to the actual water pressure in the system. Typically, all metering devices have a very sufficient safety margin. So, for example, meters with DU=15, as a rule, can withstand pressure up to 10 atmospheres (1 MPa), and with DU-20 - even up to 16 atmospheres (1.6 MPa). In reality, such pressure values practically never exist in a water supply system.
- The main and main parameter is the indicators of the nominal water flow Qn, that is, how much water the water meter can pass through without loss of accuracy (this parameter is key when choosing metering devices).
Rules for installing a water meter unit
If we transfer the rules for installing water metering units of an apartment building to a private house and make some amendments, we get the following:
To install a water meter unit, it is necessary to make a straight section of pipeline at least 6-8 pipe diameters long between the water meter and the inlet valve;
Despite the availability of vertically mounted vane water meters on sale, it is preferable to install the water meter on a horizontal section. We remember that the water meter cannot be installed with the window facing down;
It is not necessary that the diameter of the house pipeline coincides with the diameter of the water meter inlet/outlet. However, in the sections of the water meter assembly from valve (2) to valve (4), the diameters of the pipes must coincide with the water meter couplings;
If it is necessary to connect a water meter to a pipe of larger diameter, these are adapters installed behind the standard straight sections L=6-8×d.
The water meter itself is located at a height of 30-100 cm from the floor, at some distance from the wall, in a visually accessible place.
It is recommended to make a bracket to support the water meter from below. Also, all turns (if any) before and after the water meter must be secured;
On the water supply side, a coarse filter is installed in front of the meter. An arrow for water movement is marked on the filter housing.
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SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INSTALLATION OF TURBINE WOLTMAN METERS
This type of meter is sensitive to disturbances in the flow upstream of it, causing large errors in readings and premature wear.
The flow can have two types of disturbances: distortion of the velocity profile and vortex formation.
Distortion of the velocity profile usually occurs due to an obstacle partially blocking the pipe, for example due to the presence of an incompletely closed valve. This effect can be easily minimized.
Vortex formation occurs due to the presence of two or more pipe bends located in different planes. This effect can be controlled by ensuring a sufficient length of straight pipe in front of the meter and, if this is not possible, by installing a flow straightener.
Models
The company offers several types of metering devices, differing in mounting method and appearance.
When assessing technical performance, various characteristics are used, including:
- consumption,
- sensitivity,
- installation method and other conditions.
The passport for each modification provides an extended overview, which further describes the decoding of classes and parameters of use.
When analyzing meter models, you should take into account the design option, depending on the type of reading taken. When a magnetic contact sensing mechanism is provided, the cost increases.
To apply modifications, you will need to additionally install a computer, recorder and other devices. The passport for the devices indicates the price of one pulse .
Winged
They are used for commercial and household purposes. They are located in apartments, private houses, offices and commercial premises in the manufacturing sector. There is a design with a nominal diameter diameter (DN) of 25, 32, 40 mm.
Externally, they are a round type flow meter with a data indicator in the form of a roller and pointer mechanisms. The first is responsible for providing information about consumption in cubic meters, the second - in shares.
Peculiarities:
- several markings - VSKhN corresponds to the simplified type model with space for a radio patch, VSKhNd for meters with pulse data collection;
- If necessary, it can be ordered complete with IP protection.
Winged models can withstand wear, which is confirmed by test results in accordance with GOST R 50193.3-93. Performance indicators are presented in the table:
| Options | DN-25 | DN-32 | DN-40 |
| Minimum flow rate Class A/B/C | 0,014/0,063 | 0,24/0,1 | 0,3/0,16 |
| Flow rate when maximum error changes Class A/B | 0,35/0,1 | 0,6/0,16 | 1,00/0,26 |
| Consumption during continuous operation Qn Class A/B | 3,5 | 6 | 10 |
| Maximum Qmax Class A/B | 7 | 12 | 20 |
| Threshold sensitivity, m3/h | 0,0105 | 0,018 | 0,03 |
| Roller pointer limit, m3 | 99999 | ||
| Minimum division, m3 | 0,00005 | ||
| Pipe mounting type | Threaded | ||
| Weight, g | 2000 | 2200 | 2500 |
| Average service life, not less | 12 years | ||
| Period between verifications | 6 years | ||
| price, rub. | From 5200 | From 5700 | From 6700 |
It is worth choosing VSKhN vane flowmeters based on the diameter of the pipeline. DN-25 is installed in residential buildings, and DN-32, DN-40 is suitable for industrial pipelines .
Models DN-15, DN-20 belong to the group of residential flow meters designed for use with a small amount of passing water. They should be checked once every 6 years when used for at least 12 years.
Turbine
They are used in measuring cold water in buildings for permanent/temporary residence, workshops where waste exceeds 15 m3 in 24 hours.
A design feature is the replacement of the impeller with a rotating “turbine” inserted in a vertical position towards the cold water direction. It is responsible for the volume of the aquatic environment.
Models are available with a diameter in the range of 40-250 mm. It is planned to manufacture VSKhN meters of the turbine type with the installation of a radio pad and pulse options for remote data collection.
Operational characteristics are described in the table:
| Parameter | Values of VSKhN turbine flow meters |
| Diameter, mm | 40, 50, 65, 80, 100, 125, 150, 200, 250 |
| Lowest consumption Class B | 0,45-10,0 |
| Transient flow Class B | 0,90-16,0 |
| Nominal flow Class B | 30-1100 |
| Highest consumption Class B | 60-1600 |
| Sensitive flow rate during continuous turbine operation m3/h | 0,15-3,0 |
| Type of connection | Flanged |
| Weight, kg | From 7.9 to 75.1 |
| Period between verifications | 6 years |
| Duration of operation | 12 years |
| price, rub. | From 7900 to 44300 |
When choosing one model or another, you should focus on the diameter of the pipeline . The space where the flow meter will be installed is important. For frequently used pipes with a diameter of 40 mm, a DN-40 turbine type with a weight of 7.9 kg is suitable.
The popular models from the series are DN-40, DN-50 and DN-200. Their performance characteristics vary in flow range, price and dimensions.
A filter plate is placed in the inlet pipe of the device to prevent sedimentation of suspended particles. This increases the service life of the flow meter.
The labeling of VSKhN turbine-type devices may contain information about the manufacturer.
They are produced both in Russia (Teplovodomer Rossiya) and in Poland (Apator PoWoGaz) . The cost of the models does not differ.
Class C
They are used for measuring the volume of water consumed in domestic, public and highly specialized premises.
Class C indicates precision control when resistance to magnetic signals, physical force and repeated rotations is provided.
Models are available designed to accommodate a radio pad . If desired, you can purchase a modification with a pulse output. Externally they resemble vane flowmeters.
Performance characteristics:
| Parameter | Nominal values |
| Diameter, mm | 15, 20, 25, 32, 40 |
| Minimum consumption Class B | 0,025-0,16 |
| Flow rate when maximum error Qt changes Class B | 0,04-0,26 |
| Nominal Qn Class B | 1,5-10,0 |
| Flow at maximum Qmax Class B | 3,5-20,0 |
| Sensitivity threshold m3/h | 0,0075-0,03 |
| Pipe installation type | Threaded |
| Weight, kg | 0,5-2,5 |
| Time interval between verifications | 72 months |
| Operational period | 12 years |
| price, rub. | From 1180 to 8760 |
One of the features of the series is the presence of a strainer at the inlet of the water meter, which prevents the penetration of pollutants into the measuring mechanism.
When choosing between models of VSKhN meters with metrological class C, the consumer must take into account the scope of application and the internal diameter of the pipeline.
The minimum diameter is 15 mm, which is convenient to place in residential buildings and apartment complexes . The maximum size of the flow meter used is 40 mm. The latter is used in industrial water supply. If necessary, metering devices with a pulse output are purchased to correctly collect information.
IP68 rated
If it is necessary to place metering devices in dirty rooms or in spaces where there is high humidity or possible flooding, models with protection class IP68 are selected.
The flow meter mechanism can withstand aquatic environments (flooding to a depth below 1 m) . The protective cover prevents the penetration of dust. Flow meters with an output for measuring with a pulse tip are offered for sale.
In areas with a smaller volume of cold water, the VSH models DN 15-20 are produced. For pipelines with a diameter of 25, 32, 40 mm, it is possible to manufacture threaded meters, and for pipes with a diameter of 40-250 mm, it is possible to use flanged meters.
Specifications:
| Parameter | Flow meter type | |
| Diameter, mm | Threaded DN-25, DN-30, DN-40 | Flanged DN 40-250 |
| Minimum Qmin Class A/B (B for flanged) | 0,14-0,3 | 0,45-1,0 |
| Adapter Qt Class A/B (B for flanged) | 0,35-1,0 | 0,9-16,0 |
| Flow during continuous operation, Qn Class A/B (B for flanged) | 3,5-10,0 | 30-1100 |
| Maximum Qmax Class A/B (B for flanged) | 7,0-20,0 | 60-1600 |
| Threshold sensitivity, m3/h | 0,0105-0,03 | 0,15-3,0 |
| Water consumption at a pressure drop of 0.1 kgf/cm2 | — | 26-800 |
| Weight, kg | 2,0-2,5 | — |
| Verification period | After 6 years | |
| Operational period | 12 years | — |
| price, rub. | From 5700 to 45500 | |
Threaded ones are installed more often in apartments, houses and utility rooms. With a flange installation method, the flow meter is popular in the manufacturing sector and utilities.
A popular model with IP-68 protection for household objects is the DN-25 VSKhN. Suitable for pipes with a diameter of 25 mm with threaded fastening. The maximum flow rate is 7 m3/hour.
An interesting representative of the series with a diameter of 40 mm is a threaded type, which can be used on production pipelines where this type of fastening is necessary (maximum flow 20 m3).
Another model VSKHN-40f IP-68 with an installation length of 200 mm and a higher flow rate of 60 m3/hour is used in cold water supply systems of medium and large consumption with a flanged metering device.
Meters of IP-68 class with threaded mounting are manufactured under the Teplovodomer brand, and flanged meters are manufactured in Poland (Apator PoWoGaz).
Combined
They are a combination of a vane and turbine water meter, where there is a reed switch sensor . Available in class IP-54 or IP-68.
Scope of use: cold water measurements on industrial supply pipes, public utilities and automatic flow metering points.
Their design is created specifically for places where there is a variable flow , which changes periodically over time or under the influence of environmental conditions.
Specifications:
| Parameter | Nominal value |
| Nominal diameter, DN | 50/20, 65/20, 80/20, 100/20, 150/40 |
| Nominal flow | 50-400 |
| Maximum consumption | 90-600 |
| Transition flow | 0,2-0,8 |
| Consumption at a minimum | 0,05-0,2 |
| Limit sensitivity m3/h | 0,015-0,1 |
| Consumption at pressure drop 0.1 kgf/cm2 | 12-118 |
| Weight, kg | 17,6/18,7-74,6/76,9 |
| Interval between verifications | 6 years |
| Average usage time | 12 years |
| price, rub. | From 37000 to 150000 |
When choosing, a diameter is determined that allows operation over the entire flow range, based on the type of room. The diameter of the pipelines located at the facility is also taken into account.
Of the entire series, the VSKhN DN-50/20 meter with a flow rate of up to 90 m3/h is considered compact. Another popular option is the VSKHN DN-100/20, which is IP-68 rated, magnetically protected and can withstand depths of more than 1 m. Its maximum flow rate is 300 m3/h.
The VSKhN DN-150/40 model, supplied in IP-54 or IP-68 class, is presented with the maximum diameter value. Their consumption is the same, ranging from 0.2-600 m3 per hour.
Combined cold water metering devices are more often used in social premises , where such flow meters must be present in order to control increased flow during a fire. These include kindergartens, schools, business centers and offices.
Electromagnetic
They are electromagnetic type flow converters. When used, cold water is converted into electrical signals (frequency, impulse, current). Available in a modified form with an indication unit - built-in or remote.
Features include:
- Long-term operation in unusual situations (vibration, increased humidity, temperature).
- Fastening to different pipes – vertical and horizontal.
- Elimination of temperature error.
- Converting elements are provided for additional hydraulic resistance.
Performance indicators are presented below:
| Parameter | Standard |
| DN | 15, 20, 25, 32, 40, 50, 65, 80, 100, 150, 200 |
| Converter type | B |
| Sensitivity | 0,01-2,0 |
| Min flow | 0,02-4,0 |
| Transition flow | 0,033-6,7 (0,05-10,0) |
| Max flow | 5-1000 |
| Regular verification | After 4 years |
| Average use | At least 12 years |
| Price | From 19,700 to 93,000 rubles. |
For low flow rates, the Master Flow DN-15 model with an installation length of 135 mm (up to 5 m3) is suitable. For a pipeline with a diameter of 40 mm, “Master Flow” DN-40 is used, operating in the flow range of 0.3-45 m3. For industrial premises, a dimensional model DN-200 (up to 1000 m3) is purchased.
APPLICABLE FITTINGS
When installing the meter, the following fittings are installed:
3.1. Before the counter
3.1.1. A shut-off valve or valve, preferably indicating the direction of flow. For meters with a flange connection - a valve with a full size hole.
3.1.2. As recommended in Sect. 5, a device for straightening the flow (flow straightener) or a straight section of pipe installed between the shut-off valve and the meter.
3.1.3. If necessary, a protective mesh between the shut-off valve and the meter, and for a turbine meter - up to the straight section of the pipe or flow straightener.
3.1.4. If necessary, seal the connection between the meter and the water supply pipe in order to detect unauthorized removal of the meter.
3.2. Behind the counter
3.2.1. If necessary, a connecting pipe insert with an adjustable length to facilitate installation and removal of the meter. This device is recommended for meters with qn
≥ 15 m 3 /h.
3.2.2. If necessary, a device with a drain valve that can be used for pressure control, sterilization and water sampling.
3.2.3. For meters with
q p
> 2.5 m 3 /h, a shut-off valve or valve, and for meters with a flange connection, a valve with a full-size hole acting in the same direction as the valve in front of the meter.
3.2.4. If necessary, control (control) valve.
Launch of water meters
Having completed the installation of water meters:
- The water does not open completely for a short period of time to bleed air;
- Connections are inspected for leaks;
- If necessary, tighten the fitting nuts;
- The absence of leaks is a signal for the full opening of the water;
- After full water pressure, another inspection of the connections is carried out. If there are no leaks, sealing is carried out and documentation is filled out.
If you installed water meters yourself, you must call a representative of the management company for sealing. If the meter is installed by specialists, a representative of the management company does not seal the meter, but accepts it for work, checking the seal terminal with the passport.
Overall and connection dimensions
Overall and connecting dimensions of straight sections for RVG and TRZ gas meters
| No. | DN meter | Conditional length to the counter | L1, mm | L2, mm | Conditional length after counter | L3, mm | L4, mm |
| 1 | 50 | 3Dn | 200 | 100 | 5Dn | 300 | 200 |
| 2 | 80 | 2Dn | 250 | 100 | 3Dn | 400 | 250 |
| 3 | 100 | 2Dn | 300 | 100 | 3Dn | 400 | 300 |
| 4 | 150 | 2Dn | 400 | 150 | 3Dn | 650 | 400 |
| 5 | 200 | 2Dn | 550 | 200 | 3Dn | 800 | 550 |
| 6 | 250 | 2Dn | 650 | 250 | 3Dn | 1050 | 650 |
Overall and connecting dimensions of straight sections for SG gas meters
| No. | DN of the meter | Conditional length to the counter | L1, mm | L2, mm | Conditional length after counter | L3, mm | L4, mm |
| 1 | 50 | 5Dn | 270 | 100 | 5Dn | 300 | 200 |
| 2 | 80 | 5Dn | 420 | 100 | 3Dn | 400 | 250 |
| 3 | 100 | 5Dn | 520 | 100 | 3Dn | 400 | 300 |
| 4 | 150 | 5Dn | 770 | 150 | 3Dn | 650 | 400 |
Note: Flanges version 1 Ru16 according to GOST 12815.
Where to buy and what to look for when buying?
You can order products from the official website , where the current price is presented on the date of purchase.
Having chosen the required model, the client sees the cost in euros and rubles. The sale of VSKhN metering devices is carried out through suppliers of control and measuring instruments. The price of products will be 1-5% higher.
When ordering, the client provides information on the product - designation and class. Please remember that the set of connectors is not included in the delivery package. They are purchased separately.
