The Flow Meter Demonstration Unit is a self-contained facility to demonstrate the important characteristics of flow meters. The main elements are a service module and flow meter support stand.

The pressure drop across each of the flow meters can be measured by using either the one-metre pressurised water manometer or the 0.5-metre mercury manometer supplied. The discharge from the test section is controllable and is fed through a diffuser into the channel of the service module. 

A self-priming centrifugal pump draws water from the sump tank in the service module and delivers it to a flow meter test pipe. These meters have been chosen to give a variety of different metering principles and degrees of sophistication and accuracy. Some of the meters are calibrated directly in units of flow, while others involve the use of calibration charts. Industrial-type flow meters mounted in test sections can be fitted into the test pipe quickly and easily. 

A V-notch and rectangular notch weir can be fitted into the service module. Ported manometer connection valves ensure rapid bleeding of all manometer pipework. A facility exists to admit air into the hydraulic stream to demonstrate the effect on the meter’s accuracy. An auxiliary channel accommodates the broad-crested and crump weirs, as well as the ‘H’ flume and Washington flume. Levels in the channel can be determined by using the Hook and Point Gauge.

Educational Content:

To demonstrate the use of one or more flowmeters for the measurement of flow rate in a closed conduit, and to determine the flowmeter characteristics. Including Shunt Gap meter, Swinging Flap, Volumetric Rotary Piston, Electromagnetic, Helical Rotary and Inferential Multi stream

To demonstrate the application of an Orifice Plate, Venturi and Pitot tube in the measurement of flow rate in a closed conduit.

To demonstrate the characteristics of a Rectangular notch weir and Vee Notch weir in an open channel

To demonstrate the use of a Broad Crested Weir, Crump Weir, H Flume and Washington Flume to measure flow rate in a open channel

Considering the implications of flow meter selection on performance, accuracy, convenience, cost and head loss

Comparing the use, application and limitations of various types of flow meter.