A meter testing service for any brand of rotary or turbine meter with flow rate capacities from one to 650cu.m/hr has been launched by independent metering supplier MWA Technology. MWA has invested in a sophisticated test rig at its Birmingham headquarters: the rig determines whether meters currently in service should be serviced or replaced.
“Generally, check meters are produced with bearings that are ‘sealed for life’, unlike primary billing meters which generally have provision for lubricating bearings," said MWA director, Martin Wardell. "It is usually recommended by manufactures that turbine check meters are serviced and verified for accuracy every ten years.
“Rotary meters (RPD) need routine maintenance — including oil level checks — and will operate in excess of 20 years without variation in accuracy. Generally UK manufactured diaphragm meters also have an estimated service life in excess of 20 years without any maintenance. This is why MWA holds a stock of a variety of meters that can be hired out to customers whilst their meters are being checked and calibrated."
MWA's new test rig features three reference meters, a rotary meter and two turbine meters. The rig is able to test flow rates to an accuracy of ± two per cent.
“UK customers have very limited choice when it comes to having their meters checked," said Wardell. "There are probably only six such test rigs in the country and meter manufacturers own four of these. Often the manufacturers restrict their testing service to their own branded meters."
