+GF+ Micronics U3000 User guide

Micronics U3000/4000

Ultrasonic Flowmeter

User Manual

Micronics Ltd, Knaves Beech Business Centre, Davies Way, Loudwater,

High Wycombe, Bucks HP10 9QR.

Telephone: [phone] Facsimile: [phone] E-mail: [e-mail]

Issue 5.1 GF (Software version 03.08.13)

www.micronicsflowmeters.com

Table of Contents

1: General Description 1

1.1 Introduction 1

1.2 Principles of Operation 2

1.3 Supplied Hardware 3

1.4 U3000/U4000 Instrument 4

1.4.1 Connections 4

1.4.2 Keypad 5

1.4.3 Power supply 6

2: Installation 7

2.1 Safety Precautions and Warnings 7

2.2 Installing the U3000/U4000 instrument 7

2.2.1 Positioning the instrument 7

2.2.2 Mounting the instrument 7

2.2.3 Connecting the instrument 9

2.3 Installing The Ultrasonic Transducers 10

2.3.1 Transducer positioning 10

2.3.2 Transducer attachment 12

2.3.3 Attaching the guide rail to the pipe 12

2.3.4 Fitting the transducers 13

2.3.5 Transducer attachment (diagonal mode) 15

2.4 Installing the USB Virtual Com. Port (U4000 only) 17

3: Operating Procedures 19

3.1 Setting-up the Instrument 20

3.1.1 Using the instrument for the first time 20

3.1.2 Changing the user language 21

3.1.3 Changing the date and time (*U4000 only) 21

3.2 Using the Quick Start Menu 21

3.3 Instrument Calibration 25

3.3.1 Adjusting the zero cut-off 25

3.3.2 Adjusting the set zero flow offset 25

3.3.3 Adjusting the calibration factor 26

3.3.4 Adjusting the roughness factor 26

3.3.5 Adjusting the damping factor 27

3.4 Outputs 28

3.4.1 Current output 28

3.4.2 Pulse output (for Pulse Frequency Output see page 44) 30

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3.4.3 Alarm outputs 30

3.5 How to Measure Totalised Flows (manually) 33

3.6 Display of totalisers 34

3.7 Setting the Chiller Options 34

3.7.1 Setting the Chiller Delay 35

4: Data Logging & Communications (U4000) 37

4.1 How to Set Up the Basic Logging Application to Memory 37

4.2 How to Set Up Automatic (Timed) Logging Mode 39

4.3 How to Log Directly to a PC 41

4.4 How to Log Directly to Both Memory and PC 41

4.5 How to Download Logged Data to a PC 41

4.6 Working with Portagraph III 42

4.7 Printing 42

4.7.1 How to print logged data using the RS232 printer 42

4.8 Operation with the Calec®ST Energy Totaliser 44

4.8.1 Pulse output 44

4.8.2 Connecting the U3000/U4000 to the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser 44

4.8.3 Configuring the U3000/U4000 44

4.8.4 Configuring the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser 46

5: Maintenance & Repair 47

6: Troubleshooting 49

6.1 Overview 49

6.2 General Troubleshooting Procedure 50

6.3 Warning and Status Messages 51

6.4 Diagnostics Display 54

7: Options 55

7.1 Options Common to Both the U3000/U4000 55

7.1.1 Large pipe diameter transducers 55

7.1.2 Guide rail options 55

7.1.3 Extended signal cable options 55

Appendix A: Specification 57

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1: General Description

1.1 Introduction

This manual describes the operation of the U3000/U4000 flowmeter. The flowmeter is designed to work with
clamp-on transducers to enable the flow of a liquid within a closed pipe to be measured accurately without
needing to insert any mechanical parts through the pipe wall or protrude into the flow system.

Using ultrasonic transit time techniques, the U3000/U4000 is controlled by a micro-processor system which

contains a wide range of data that enables it to be used with pipes having an outside diameter ranging from
13mm up to 2000mm (5000mm with D sensors) and constructed of almost any material. The instrument will
also operate over a wide range of fluid temperatures.

The basic features of the U3000 and U4000 are identical. However, the standard U4000 can also perform
data logging, has RS232 and USB communications interfaces.

U3000/U4000 standard features:

• Large, easy to read graphic display with backlight.

• Simple to follow dual function keypad.

• Simple ‘Quick Start’ set up procedure.

• Continuous signal monitoring.

• Isolated pulse output (volumetric or frequency).

• Isolated current output (4-20mA, 0-20mA or 0-16mA).

• 2x Isolated programmable alarm outputs.

• Password-protected menu operation for secure use.

• Signal diagnostics.

• Multi-function alarm outputs.

• Operates from Mains, 24Va.c. or 24Vd.c.

U4000 additional standard features:

• 200k stored data points.

• Logging of Flows and Volume totals.

• RS232 and USB output.

Volumetric flow rates are displayed in l/h, l/min, l/sec, gal/min, gal/h, USgals/min, USgals/h, Barrel/h, Barrel/
day, m³/s, m³/min, m³/h. Linear velocity is displayed in metres or feet per second.

When operating in the ‘Flow Reading’ mode the total volumes, both positive and negative, are displayed up to
a maximum 12-digit number.

The flowmeter can be used to measure clean liquids or oils that have less than 3% by volume of particulate
content. Cloudy liquids such as river water and effluent can be measured along with cleaner liquids such as
demineralised water.

Typical U3000/U4000 applications include:

• River water.

• Seawater.

• Potable water.

• Demineralised water.

• Treated water.

Both the U3000 and U4000 have ‘A’ and ‘B’ model options, which refer to the transducer type provided. Thus
a U3000A will be supplied with type ‘A’ transducers which are designed to work with pipe diameters between
13mm - 115mm; whereas a U4000B will be supplied with type ‘B’ transducers which are designed to work
with pipe diameters between 115mm - 2000mm. Both sets of transducers use a common mounting system

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 1
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1: General Description

Fluid flow

Fluid flow

Fluid flow

Fluid flow

Fluid flow

U

U

U

U

D

D

D

D

Separation

Distance

Separation

Distance

Separation

Distance

Separation

Distance

Reflex mode

Reflex mode (double bounce)

Reflex mode (triple bounce)

Diagonal mode*

This is the mode most commonly used.
The two transducers (U & D) are attached
to the pipe in line with each other and the
signals passing between them are reflected
by the opposite pipe wall.
The separation distance is calculated by
the instrument in response to entered data
concerning the pipe and fluid characteristics.

In this mode the separation distance is
calculated to give a double bounce. This is
most likely to occur if the pipe diameter is
so small that the calculated reflex mode
separation distance would be impractical
for the transducers in use.

This illustration goes one step further to show
a triple bounce situation. This would normally
apply when working with very small pipes
relative to the transducer range in use.

This mode might be selected by the
instrument where relatively large pipes are
concerned. In this mode the transducers are
located on opposite sides of the pipe but the
separation distance is still critical in order
for the signals to be received correctly.

This mode might be used with the standard
‘A’ & ‘B’ transducer sets but for really large
pipe installation the optional transducer set ‘D’
might be recommended.

Upstream

transducer

*Requires diagonal mounting kit option.

for pipe attachment. Throughout this manual any reference to ’U3000/U4000’ applies to both U3000A/B and
U4000A/B model variants unless otherwise stated.

Note: In addition to the 'A' and 'B' type sensors, type 'D' sensors (option) are available for use on pipes up to
5000mm. These have a different mounting method. See Paragraph 1.3 for further details.

1.2 Principles of Operation

When ultrasound is transmitted through a liquid the speed at which the sound travels through the liquid is
accelerated slightly if it is transmitted in the same direction as the liquid flow and decelerated slightly if
transmitted against it. The difference in time taken by the sound to travel the same distance but in opposite
directions is therefore directly proportional to the flow velocity of the liquid.

Figure 1.1 Operating modes

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The U3000/U4000 system employs two ultrasonic transducers attached to the pipe carrying the liquid and

Acoustic Couplant

Steel bands (x2)

Guide Rail

Transducers
(Sensors) (Ax2, or Bx2)*

U3000/4000
Instrument

Applicator

Mounting clamps (x2)

Earthing

Transducer
Cables (x2)

User
Documentation

Cable
Kit

Transducer clamps

compares the time taken to transmit an ultrasound signal in each direction. If the sound characteristics of the
fluid are known, the instrument’s microprocessor can use the results of the transit time calculations to
compute the fluid flow velocity. Once the flow velocity is known the volumetric flow can be easily calculated
for a given pipe diameter.

The system can be set up to operate in one of four modes determined mainly by the pipe diameter and the
type of transducer set in use. The diagram in Figure 1.1
separation distance between the transducers to obtain the strongest, and therefore most reliable, signal.

1.3 Supplied Hardware

The supplied U3000/U4000 components are shown in Figure 1.2.

1: General Description

illustrates the importance of applying the correct

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Figure 1.2 Standard U3000/U4000 equipment

U3000/U4000Standard equipment

• Instrument with backlit graphic display.

• Transducer cables (x2) 5 metres long.

• Transducers ‘A-ST’ x2 (U3000/U4000A) for use with pipes ranging 13mm – 115mm.

• Transducers ‘B-ST’ x2 (U3000/U4000B) for use with pipes ranging 115mm – 2000mm.

• USB cable (U4000).

• Guide rail for use with ‘A’ or ‘B’ transducers.

• Steel bands used to secure the transducer guide rails to the pipe.

• Acoustic couplant.

• User documentation.

U3000/U4000 Optional equipment

• Transducer set 'D' - used for monitoring pipes of 1500mm to 5000mm diameter, over a temperature

range -20°C to +80°C. This kit is supplied in a separate case and includes the sensors together with
ratchet straps and guide rails for attaching to the pipe.

1: General Description

Keypad

LCD Display

Coaxial cables to transducers

Cable glands for

Small & Large
Glands for power
connection

Alarms & I/O connections

Blue = Downstream
Red = Upstream

1.4 U3000/U4000 Instrument

The U3000/U4000 is a microprocessor controlled instrument operated through a menu system using an
inbuilt LCD display and keypad. It can be used to display the instantaneous fluid flow rate or velocity, together
with totalised volumes. The instrument can also provide an isolated current output, or variable pulse output,
proportional to the measured flow rate which can be scaled to suit a particular flow range. Finally, two
isolated alarm outputs are provided which can be configured in a number of ways. For example, to operate
when the flow rate exceeds a specified maximum or minimum limit.

In addition, the U4000 can function as a data logger. When operating in this mode the logged data can be
output to the instrument's memory, to a PC (via the RS232 or USB serial interfaces), or simultaneously to
both memory and PC. When logging to memory only, the logged data can be downloaded to the PC at a later
time. Both the flow rate and +/- Totals can be logged, with up to 200k logging events stored internally.

1.4.1 Connections

Transducer connections

The transducers are connected to two coaxial sockets located on the bottom left-hand of the instrument. The
silk-screen above these connectors show a red and blue triangle and a direction of flow symbol. For a
positive flow reading, it is important that the upstream transducer is connected to the RED socket and the
downstream transducer to the BLUE one. It is safe to connect or disconnect the cable while the instrument is
switched on.

USB connection (U4000 only)

A USB cable is supplied as part of the U4000 kit and can be connected between the U4000 instrument and a
PC to download logged data. The USB connector, located on the top left hand side of the flowmeter as
shown in Figure 2.2
rating.

RS232 Connection (U4000 only)

A set of terminal blocks is provided for the RS232 connection, the cable to be routed via either of the alarm
and I/O cable glands see Figure 2.2

4 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

Figure 1.3 Instrument details

, uses a Bulgin screwed type mini-USB connector to preserve the enclosure’s IP 65

.

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

4-20mA, ‘Pulse’, and Alarm I/O connections

Scroll UP

ENTER (SELECT)

Scroll DOWN

Scroll LEFT

Scroll RIGHT

Scroll UP

ENTER (SELECT)

Scroll DOWN

Numerical keypad

Scroll LEFT

Scroll RIGHT

with dual function keys

U4000 Keypad

U3000 Keypad

The 4-20mA, ‘pulse’, and alarm I/O cables enter the bottom of the instrument via two cable glands and are
connected internally to a terminal block. Full details of the terminal connections are provided in Chapter 2
(Installation) and Chapter 7 (Options).

Power supply

Two cable glands on the bottom right-hand side of the instrument are available for the power supply cable.
Two sizes of glands are provided to accept cables of different diameters.

1.4.2 Keypad

The instrument is configured and controlled via a 15-key tactile membrane keypad, as shown in Figure 1.4.

1: General Description

Figure 1.4 U3000/U4000 Keypad

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1: General Description

Menus and the menu selection keys

Note: As a security measure, once the instrument has been set-up for the first time a password is required to

gain subsequent access to the operating menus (see page 24).

The U3000/U4000 menus are arranged hierarchally with the MAIN MENU being at the top level. Menu
navigation is achieved by three keys located on the right hand side of the keypad which are used to scroll UP
and DOWN a menu list and SELECT a menu item. When scrolling through a menu an arrow-shaped cursor
moves up and down the left hand side of the screen to indicate the active menu choice which can then be
selected by pressing the ENTER (SELECT) key.

Some menus have more options than can be shown on the screen at the same time, in which case the
overflowed choices can be brought into view by continuing to scroll DOWN past the bottom visible item. Menus
generally ‘loop around’ if you scroll beyond the first or last items.

If you select Exit on any menu it usually takes you back one level in the menu hierarchy, but in some cases
it may go directly to the ‘Flow Reading’ screen.

Some screens require you to move the cursor left and right along the display as well as up and down. This is
achieved using keys 5 (scroll LEFT) and 6 (scroll RIGHT).

Dual function numerical keypad

The block of keys shown in the centre of the keypad in Figure 1.4 are dual function keys. They can be used to
enter straight-forward numerical data, select the displayed flow units or provide quick access to frequently
required control menus.

1.4.3 Power supply

Mains supply

As standard, the instrument is designed to work with a mains supply of 86-236V and 50/60Hz. A mains
supply fuse is located adjacent to the mains power connection (see Figure 2.3).

24V Supply

An alternative 24V a.c./d.c. power supply module is available as a factory (distributor) fitted option. This
supply is protected by a resettable solid-state fuse located on the U3000/U4000 motherboard. If this fuse
opens it can be reset by isolating the 24V supply.

Power failure

The instrument will automatically power-up and become operational when the input power is applied. In the
event of a power failure the instrument’s configuration parameters are stored in non-volatile memory, which
then allows the instrument to return to normal operation immediately power is restored.

On the U4000 a real time clock (RTC) records the date/time of any power disruptions and time-stamps any
such occurrence in the output log. All data logging ceases while power is unavailable.

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2: Installation

WARNING

WARNING

WARNING

Caution

2.1 Safety Precautions and Warnings

You may be exposed to potentially lethal (mains) voltages

when the terminal cover of this instrument is removed.

Always isolate the supply to this instrument before removing

This instrument must be installed by an electrically qualified

technician aware of the potential shock hazards presented

when working with mains powered equipment.

LETHAL VOLTAGES

the terminal cover.

LETHAL VOLTAGES

SUPPLY EARTHING

If the equipment is powered from a 24V AC supply then the

supply must be isolated from Earth.

IP65 Enclosure Protection

Blanking plugs are fitted to the cable glands on leaving the manufacturer.

In order to preserve the enclosure’s IP65 rating, ensure that the blanking plugs

remain fitted in any unused cable gland.

2.2 Installing the U3000/U4000 instrument

2.2.1 Positioning the instrument

The U3000/U4000 instrument should be installed as close as conveniently possible to the pipe-mounted
ultrasonic sensors. Standard transducer cables are 5 metres in length with 10 metre cables being optionally
available. Where, for operational reasons, it is not possible to mount the instrument this close to the sensors,
bespoke cables of up to 100m can be provided – consult Micronics Ltd for further information and availability.

A suitable mains supply must be available to power the instrument (an optional 24V a.c./d.c. supply module is
available). The external supply must be suitably protected and connected via an identifiable isolator. A
500mA fuse is fitted internally in the instrument’s input supply line.

2.2.2 Mounting the instrument

Ideally the U3000/U4000 enclosure should be fixed to a wall using three M4 screws – see Figure 2.3.

1. Remove the U3000/U4000 terminal cover.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 7
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2: Installation

GND

TxD

RxD

mA+

mA-

PULSE+

PULSE-

ALARM1+

ALARM1-

ALARM2+

ALARM2-

EXPIO#1

EXPIO#2

EXPIO#3

EXPIO#4

EXPIO#5

EXPIO#6

EXPIO#7

EXPIO#8

24V+

24V-

230V -L

230V-N

230V-E

GND

TxD

RxD

mA+

mA-

PULSE+

PULSE-

ALARM1+

ALARM1-

ALARM2+

ALARM2-

EXPIO#1

EXPIO#2

EXPIO#3

EXPIO#4

EXPIO#5

EXPIO#6

EXPIO#7

EXPIO#8

24V+

24V-

230V -L

230V-N

230V-E

FUSE

141mm

198mm

M4 Screw Slot

M4 Keyhole

Mounting Details

The instrument should be
securely wall-mounted using the
three fixing points shown.

Cable connections

All power and control cables enter
through cable glands located on the
bottom of the instrument and connect
to terminal blocks as shown.

2. Fix a screw into the wall at the required point to align with the mounting keyhole on the back of the
enclosure.

3. Attach the enclosure to the wall using the keyhole screw mounting.

4. Align the enclosure then mark out the positions for the two remaining screw fixings through the slots near
the bottom corners of the enclosure. Then remove the enclosure, and drill (and plug) the fixing points.

5. Clear the site of any dust/debris then mount the enclosure on the wall.

Figure 2.1 U3000/U4000 Mounting and connection details

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2.2.3 Connecting the instrument

USB Connector

All cables enter the instrument through the (4) cable glands provided and are connected to terminal blocks
which are located behind a safety cover. The terminal blocks use a spring-loaded securing mechanism which
is opened by lifting the orange tab situated on the top of the terminal connection.

Control & monitoring cables

Depending on the fitted options, any of the following control and monitoring cables may be required:

• Current output – a 4-20mA, 0-16mA, or 0-20mA monitoring signal is output at terminal mA+ and mA-.

(mA+ is the current output terminal and mA- is the return terminal).

• Pulse output – an opto-isolated pulse output is available at terminals PULSE+ and PULSE- (PULSE+ is

the pulse output terminal and PULSE- is the return terminal).

• Alarm Outputs – two programmable, multifunction alarm outputs are available using MOSFET, SPNO

relays. The relays are rated at 48V/500mA continuous load, and are connected to terminals
ALARM1+, ALARM1-, ALARM2+ and ALARM2- respectively.

• RS232 Interface (U4000 only) – an RS232 interface is provided to allow logged data to be

downloaded to a PC or RS232 compatible printer. The interface is connected to terminal TxD (data
transmitted from the U4000) RxD (data received by the U4000) and GND (signal ground).

• Expansion ports (U4000 only) – terminals EXPIO#1 to EXPIO#8 are used for I/O connections to a

number of optional expansion boards that may be fitted to the U4000 expansion slot.

1. Remove the terminal block cover.

2. Route the control and monitoring cables through the two smaller cable glands.

3. Cut the wires to length, strip back the insulation by approximately 10mm and connect them into the
required terminals as described above and identified in Figure 2.1.

4. On completion, tighten the cable glands to ensure the cables are held securely.

USB Connection (U4000 only)

2: Installation

Figure 2.2 U4000 USB Connection

A Mini-USB connector is available at the left-hand side of the enclosure to which the USB cable (provided)
can be attached, as shown in Figure 2.2. The free end of the USB cable can be plugged directly into any PC
USB port.

Power connections

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2: Installation

WARNING

WARNING

The instrument can be powered from a mains supply (86 - 264V a.c., 47/63Hz) or from a 24V a.c./d.c. supply
if it is fitted with a 24V supply module.

1. Route the power cable through one of the two cable glands on the right hand side of the instrument,
below the power connection terminals, using the gland most suitable for the cable diameter.

2. Cut the wires to length, strip back the insulation by approximately 10mm and connected to them into the
correct power supply terminals identified in Figure 2.1.

3. On completion, tighten the cable glands to ensure the cables are held securely.

4. Refit the terminal block cover.

LETHAL VOLTAGES

Ensure the power cable is isolated from the mains supply.

Do not apply mains voltage with the terminal cover removed.

SUPPLY EARTHING

If the equipment is powered from a 24V AC supply then the

supply must be isolated from Earth.

2.3 Installing The Ultrasonic Transducers

2.3.1 Transducer positioning

To obtain the most accurate results the condition of both the liquid and the pipe wall must be suitable to allow
the ultrasound transmission along its predetermined path. It is important also that the liquid flows uniformly
within the length of pipe being monitored and that the flow profile is not distorted by any upstream or
downstream obstructions. This is best achieved by ensuring there is a straight length of pipe upstream of the
transducers of at least 20 times the pipe diameter and 10 times the pipe diameter on the downstream side, as
shown in Figure 2.3
diameters upstream and 5 diameters downstream, but when the transducers are positioned this close to any
obstruction the resulting errors can be unpredictable.Preparation

Key Point: Do not expect to obtain accurate results if the transducers are positioned
close to any obstructions that distort the uniformity of the flow profile.

Before you attach the transducers you should first ensure that the proposed location satisfies the distance
requirements shown in Figure 2.3

Prepare the pipe by degreasing it and removing any loose material or flaking paint in order to obtain the best
possible surface. A smooth contact between pipe surface and the face of the transducers is an important
factor in achieving a good ultrasound signal strength, and therefore maximum accuracy.

. Flow measurements can be made on shorter lengths of straight pipe, down to 10

otherwise the resulting accuracy of the flow readings may be affected.

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2: Installation

Flow

Valid transducer location

10 x Diameter

20 x Diameter

The U3000/U4000 equipment expects a uniform flow profile as a distorted flow will produce

unpredictable measurement errors. Flow profile distortions can result from upstream

disturbances such as bends, tees, valves, pumps and other similar obstructions.

Distorted Flow Profile

Flow

Distorted Flow Profile Uniform Flow Profile

To ensure a uniform profile the transducers must be

mounted far enough away from any cause of distortion.

45°

In many applications an even flow velocity profile over a full 360° is unattainable due, for example,

to the presence of air turbulence at the top of the flow and possibly sludge in the bottom of the pipe.

Experience has shown that the most consistently accurate results are achieved when the

transducer guide rails are mounted at 45° with respect to the top of the pipe.

Possible
sludge

Air

Reflex Mode

Diagonal Mode*

Guide Rail

Guide Rail 1

Guide Rail 2

Guide Rail

Guide Rail 1

Guide Rail 2

45°

*Note: when using the U3000/U4000 in the ‘diagonal’

mode an additional guide rail and fixing kit is required.

Figure 2.3 Locating the transducers

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 11
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Figure 2.4 Guide rail attachment (reflex vs. diagonal mode)

2: Installation

Rectangular

Upstream

Downstream

Stainless steel bands

transducer

opening

transducer

T ransducer

Cable Connector

Transducer clamp

Imperial/metric rulers

Figure 2.6

2.3.2 Transducer attachment

Figure 2.5 Transducer attachment (completed assembly)

The type ‘A’ or ‘B’ transducers are fixed to the pipe using the adjustable guide rail assembly shown in Figure

2.5. The guide rail itself is secured to the pipe using two wrap-around steel bands. For user convenience, an

imperial (inches) and metric (millimetres) ruler is attached to the side plate of the guide rail – as shown in

Figure 2.5. Once the guide rail assembly is fully assembled the transducers are locked into position by

tightening the transducer clamp.

Note: When using the U3000/U4000 in the ‘diagonal’ mode, or in ‘reflex’ mode on pipes over 350 mm
diameter, two guide rails are required with one transducer mounted in each – see
diagonal mode details.

2.3.3 Attaching the guide rail to the pipe

1. Position the guide rail horizontally on the
pipe at 45° with respect to the top of the
pipe and secure it in position using the
supplied stainless steel banding, as
shown in

Note: In the following procedure the guide rail
is installed with the rectangular opening facing
towards the upstream end of the pipe.

Figure 2.6.

Paragraph 2.3.5 for

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2.3.4 Fitting the transducers

Figure 2.7 Figure 2.8

Figure 2.9

Figure 2.10

1. Tighten each transducer
clamp clockwise until it is
close to the top of the
transducer (
is necessary in order to
prevent the acoustic couplant
touching the pipe when the
transducer is initially inserted
into the guide rail – as
described below.

2. Using the supplied syringe
applicator, apply a 3mm bead
of acoustic couplant to the
base of both transducers

Figure 2.8).

(

3. Thread the downstream transducer cable
(blue) through the right-hand end of the guide
rail and up through the rectangular opening at
the top left-hand end of the guide rail, as
shown in

4. Connect the downstream cable (blue) to one
of the transducers.

Figure 2.7). This

Figure 2.9.

2: Installation

Note: When carrying out the following steps handle the transducer assembly with care to avoid smearing
the acoustic couplant on the pipe whilst attaching the transducer to the guide rail.

5. Carefully lower the transducer and cable
through the rectangular opening until the slots
in the side of the transducer clamp align with
the edges on the top of the guide rail.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 13
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2: Installation

‘0’ on ruler scale

Figure 2.11

Figure 2.12

Calculated separation distance

Figure 2.13

Figure 2.14

6. Carefully slide the downstream transducer
assembly along the guide rail until the inner
face of the transducer is aligned with the '0'
mark on the ruler scale (Figure 2.11).

7. Lower the transducer onto the pipe by turning
the transducer clamp anti-clockwise until it is
‘finger tight’ (do not use a spanner).

8. Thread the upstream signal cable (red)
through the left-hand end of the mounting rail
and connect it to the second transducer

Figure 2.12).

(

9. Following the method used to insert the
downstream transducer, carefully lower the
transducer assembly through the rectangular
opening until the slots in the side of the
transducer clamp align with the edges on the
top of the guide rail (

Figure 2.10).

10. Position the upstream transducer so that the
inner face of the transducer is set to the
required separation distance on the ruler, as
shown in

Note: The separation distance for a particular
application can be found using the ‘Quickstart’
menu as described in Paragraph 3.2.

11. Lower the transducer onto the pipe by turning
the transducer clamp anti-clockwise until it is
‘finger tight’ (do not use a spanner).



Figure 2.14 shows the final position of the

transducers when the transducer clamps are
fully tightened.

12. Ensure the transducer signal cables are
correctly connected to the U3000/U4000
instrument – i.e. with the RED cable
connected to the upstream transducer
connector and the BLUE cable to the
downstream transducer connector.

Figure 2.13 (50 mm in this example).



14 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

13. In some cases, particularly on large pipes

Figure 2.15

using diagonal mode, or pipes with a poor
internal condition, the signal from the sensors
can be very noisy. 
In order to improve sensor performance and
noise immunity, we recommend that the
transducers are earthed, using the supplied
cables and attachment hardware, in all
installations – as shown in

Note: Remove any paint on the pipe in the
area of the clamp to achieve a good electrical
connection.

Figure 2.15.

2.3.5 Transducer attachment (diagonal mode)

This mode of operation requires two transducer guide rails fitted on opposite sides of the pipe, as shown in

Figure 2.16

used with type ‘A’ or ‘B’ transducers the guide rails used are identical to that shown above, and the second
guide rail and fixings must be purchased as an option kit.

– notice that the guide rails are still fitted on a 45° axis with respect to the top of the pipe. When

2: Installation

Key Point: For installations on larger pipes (in the range 2000mm - 5000mm O.D.)
it is necessary to use the type 'D' transducer kit which contains the transducers
together with their particular mounting rails and fitting instructions. This will have
been supplied with the electronics assembly that is configured to work with these
larger pipes.

When installing the equipment to operate in the diagonal mode the method of securing the transducers to the
guide rails and connecting them to the U3000/U4000 instrument is identical to that described above for the
reflex mode. The major difference is that you have to physically mark out the required position of the
transducers on the pipe in order to determine where to attach the transducer guide rails.

1. Obtain and note the required separation distance between the transducers using the ‘Quickstart’ menu
as described in

2. Using whatever means available, mark a reference line around the circumference of the pipe
approximately where the upstream transducer is to be fitted – line ‘A’ in

3. On line ‘A’, mark a position, point ‘X’, on an axis of approximately 45° from the top of the pipe and draw a

one metre long line (‘B’) perpendicular to ‘A’ and parallel to the pipe axis.

4. On line A, mark a position, point ‘Y’, 180° opposite point ‘X’.

Paragraph 3.2.

Figure 2.16.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 15
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

2: Installation

45°

Upstream

HINT: An easy way to draw a perpendicul ar circumference around a large pipe is to wrap a length of material such
as chart paper around the pipe, aligning the edges of the paper precisely at the overlap. With the edge of the chart
paper being parallel, either edge describes a circumference around the pipe that is perpendicular to the pipe axis.

Mark the chart paper exactly where it o verl a ps. Then, after removing the paper from the pipe, fold the measured
length in half keeping the edges parallel. The fold line now marks a distance exactly half way around the pipe.

Put the paper back on the pipe and use the fold-line to mark the opposite side of the pipe.

Flow

Separation Distance

A

X

Y

C

B

Z

45°

Downstream

transducer

transducer

Figure 2.16 Transducer mounting for diagonal mode of operation

5. From point ‘Y’, draw a one metre long line (‘C’) perpendicular to ‘A’ and parallel to the pipe axis. This is
shown as a dashed line in

6. Mark a position, point ‘Z’, on line ‘C’ which is equal to the transducer separation distance (noted in step 1)
from point ‘Y’.

7. Position and attach the upstream guide rail to the pipe such that line ‘B’ runs centrally along the length of
the guide rail and point ‘X’ is within the transducer attachment part of the guide.

8. Fit the upstream transducer (red cable) to the guide rail as described in Paragraph 2.3.4 such that the
leading face of the transducer aligns with line ‘A’.

9. Position and attach the downstream guide rail to the pipe such that line ‘C’ runs centrally along the length
of the guide rail and point ‘Z’ is within the transducer attachment part of the guide.

10. Fit the downstream transducer (blue cable) to the guide rail as described in Paragraph 2.3.4 such that
the leading face of the transducer aligns with point ‘Z’.

11. Connect the transducer cables to the U3000/U4000 instrument.

Figure 2.16 as it is on the rear of the pipe.

16 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

2.4 Installing the USB Virtual Com. Port (U4000 only)

The USB connection requires a virtual com port to be installed on the computer. The necessary driver can be
provided or downloaded from http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm.

1. Access the above url and download the driver for your particular operating system. The download takes
the form of a zip file.

2. Extract all the files from the zip file into a folder and note its location (e.g. Desktop\USBDriver).

3. Switch ON the U4000 instrument and connect it to the USB port on the PC.

4. A “New device found” message will appear and ask you for the location of the software installation
files for the new device.

5. Use the Browse button to select the path to the unzipped driver files and then click OK.

6. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver.

7. At the end of the driver installation routine you must carry out a minor configuration change to the newly
installed virtual com port. The way in which you gain access to the com port set-up window will vary
depending on your operating system. The following example applies to Windows XP.

8. Select Control Panel>System to open the SYSTEM PROPERTIES window.

9. Click the Device Manager button to open the DEVICE MANAGER window.

10. Scroll down to the Ports region and you will find the new FDTI port installed (e.g. USB Serial Port
with a high port number).

11. Right-click on the com port and select Properties.

12. From the PROPERTIES window select the Port Settings tab then click the Advanced button. The
ADVANCED SETTINGS window should open similar to that shown below.

2: Installation

Figure 2.17 Com. Port configuration

13. In the BM Options area change the Latency Timer value from 16 msec (default) to 1 msec.

14. Select OK to implement the change, and then close the remaining windows that were opened.

15. Your computer should now be able to communicate with the U4000 instrument via the USB port in the
same way as any other standard USB device.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 17
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

2: Installation

18 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3: Operating Procedures

QUICK START

Enter data

Attach sensors

FLOW READING

Carry out any necessary calibration

(Paragraph 3.3)

How to adjust the Zero Flow Offset – Paragraph 3.3.2
How to adjust the Calibration Factor – Paragraph 3.3.3
How to adjust the Roughness Factor – Paragraph 3.3.4
How to adjust the Damping Factor – Paragraph 3.3.5

Set-up a monitoring or logging application

(Paragraph 3.4)

How to measure totalised flows – Paragraph 3.5

Configure the interfaces

(Paragraph 3.4)

Set date/time, Language

Initial instrument setup

(Paragraph 3.1)

Connect and take basic flow readings

(Paragraph 3.2)

4-20mA ON/OFF – Paragraph 3.4.1
4-20mA Calibration – Paragraph 3.4.1
Pulse ON/OFF – Paragraph 3.4.2
Pulse calibration – Paragraph 3.4.2
Alarm outputs – Paragraph 3.4.3

How to set up basic (manual) logging – Paragraph 4.1
How to set up auto-timed logging – Paragraph 4.2
How to set up logging ‘live’ to a PC – Paragraph 4.3
How to Log directly to both Memory and PC – Paragraph 4.4
How to download saved data to a PC – Paragraph 4.5
How to print data – Paragraph 4.7
How to use with Calec®ST Energy Totaliser – Paragraph 4.8

U4000 Only

(Section 4)

RS232 set-up – Paragraph 4.7.1
USB set-up – Paragraph 2.4

U4000 Only

(Section 4)

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 19
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3: Operating Procedures

Serial# 0012345 V 00.00.000

Please wait.........

MAIN MENU DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Quick start
View/Edit Site Data
Data Logger
Setup RS232 /USB
Setup Instrument
Read flow

SETUP INSTRUMENT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

*Set Date & Time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Calibrate 4-20mA
Factory settings
Change Language
Exit

3.1 Setting-up the Instrument

The procedures outlined below apply to both the U3000 and U4000, unless otherwise indicated.

Key Point: When the instrument used for the first time the operator has free access
to all the set-up and operating menus until the instrument is put into FLOW READING
operation, where-upon all the menus become password protected (see page 24).

3.1.1 Using the instrument for the first time

Initial user language selection

The first time you power-up the instrument you will be asked to select a user language. The selected
language will then be the default when the instrument is next used. If you want to change the language when
the instrument is in use, see below.

1. On initial power-up, the start-up screen will
be displayed for 5 seconds, showing the
instrument's serial number and software
revision.

2. After 5 seconds, the available language list
will be displayed.

3. Select the required language and press
ENTER.

4. The instrument will display the MAIN MENU.

The MAIN MENU screen

The MAIN MENU screen is at the top of the
menu hierarchy and is the starting point for all
the operations described in this chapter. Under
normal operating conditions this screen is
accessed from the FLOW READING screen by
pressing the ENTER key.

Setting the date & time (*U4000 only)

1. Select Setup Instrument from the MAIN
MENU and press ENTER. The SETUP
INSTRUMENT screen should now be

displayed.

2. Select Set Date & Time and press
ENTER.

3. A flashing cursor should appear under the
first date number. Enter the date sequence
in dd-mm-yy order then press ENTER.

4. Repeat this action to set the time.

5. Select Exit then press ENTER to return to the MAIN MENU.

Note: If you make a mistake when entering the data press the Delete key to move the cursor back to the
number you wish to change, then continue. If you enter an invalid number an ‘ERR:Invalid Date or
Time!’ error message is displayed on the second line of the screen. If this occurs repeat the set date/time
procedure.

Note: *On the U3000 model the Set Date & Time option is not available and the Date and Time display

20 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

is replaced with a flashing asterisk.

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3.1.2 Changing the user language

SETUP INSTRUMENT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Set Date & Time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Calibrate 4-20mA
Factory settings
Change Language
Exit

SETUP INSTRUMENT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Set Date & Time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Calibrate 4-20mA
Factory settings
Change Language
Exit

DIMENSION UNIT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Select the dimension units:

➥mm

Inches

If you want to change the user language at any
time after the instrument has been put into
operation:

1. Select Setup Instrument from the MAIN
MENU then press ENTER.

2. Select Change Language from the SETUP
INSTRUMENT screen then press ENTER.

3. Select the required language from the list
provided and press ENTER.

4. The instrument returns to the MAIN MENU.

3.1.3 Changing the date and time (*U4000 only)

The correct date and time should have been set
when the instrument was initially put into
service. To update the date/time parameters:

1. Set the required Date & Time as described

Paragraph 3.1.1.

in

3: Operating Procedures

3.2 Using the Quick Start Menu

The Quick Start menu gathers various data for the site to be monitored and returns details of the transducer
configuration that must be applied when mounting the transducers on the pipe.

Before you can use the U3000/U4000 system you need to obtain the following details – this information is
required when setting up the Quick Start menu:

• The pipe outside diameter.

• The pipe wall thickness and material.

• The pipe lining thickness and material (if any).

• The type of fluid contained in the pipe being monitored.

• The fluid temperature.

Entering the site data

1. Select Quick Start from the MAIN MENU and press ENTER. You will then be presented with a series of
screens in which to enter the data mentioned above.

2. Select the dimension units (millimetres or
inches) used to measure the pipe, then
press ENTER.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 21
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3: Operating Procedures

OUTSIDE DIAMETER DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Dimensions: mm

Pipe outside diameter: 76.00

PIPE WALL THICKNESS DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Dimensions: mm

Pipe outside diameter: 76.00
Pipe wall thickness: 1.50

PIPE LINING THICKNESS DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Dimensions: mm

Pipe outside diameter: 76.00
Pipe wall thickness: 1.50
Pipe lining thickness: 0.0

PIPE WALL MATERIAL DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Select pipe wall material

PVDF-SYGEF
PP-PROGEF
PE-ELGEF
PB-INSTAFLEX

ABS
PVC-U/PVC-C
Mild Steel
Ductile Iron
S’less Steel 316
Copper
Other (m/s) –

PIPE LINING MATERIAL DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Select pipe lining material

Steel
Rubber
Glass
Epoxy

Concrete
Other (m/s)

3. Enter the pipe outside diameter dimension,
then press ENTER.

4. Enter the pipe wall thickness dimension,
then press ENTER.

5. If the pipe has a lining, enter the lining
thickness. 
If nothing is entered the instrument
automatically assumes there is no lining.

6. Press ENTER to continue.

7. Select the pipe wall material from the list
provided, then press ENTER.



If the material is not listed select Other
and enter the propagation rate of the pipe
wall material in metres/sec. Contact
Micronics Ltd if this is not known.

8. If a lining thickness value was entered
earlier, this screen is displayed to request
that you enter the lining material type. If no
lining thickness was entered this screen will
be bypassed.

22 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

9. Select the lining material from the list
provided then press ENTER.
If the material is not listed select Other
and enter the propagation rate of the lining
material in metres/sec. Contact Micronics
Ltd if this is not known

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

10. Select the fluid type from the list provided

FLUID TYPE DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Select fluid type

Water
Glycol/water 50%
Glycol/water 30%
Lubricating oil

Diesel
Freon
Other (m/s) ––

FLUID TEMPERATURE DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Enter Fluid Temperature

°C: 25.00
°F: 77.00
Continue..

SENSOR SEPARATION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS
Site : Quickstart
Pipe : 76.00 mm
Wall : 1.50
Sensors : A-ST Reflex
Temperature : 25.00°C 77.00°F
Set sensor separation to 44.64 mm
Press

 to continue, to select sens.

and press ENTER.



If the liquid is not listed select Other and
enter a propagation rate in metres/
second.Contact George Fischer if this is
not known

11. If you need to alter the fluid temperature
from that shown select either °C or °F with
the cursor and press the ENTER key.

12. Enter the new temperature value and press
the ENTER key.

13. The new temperature should now be
indicated in both °C and °F.

14. Select Continue.. and press ENTER.

15. The SENSOR SEPARATION screen now
displays a summary of the entered
parameters and informs you of the type of
sensor to be used, the mode of operation
and the distance to set up between the
sensors.
In this example it recommends type A-ST
(A standard) sensors operating in the
‘Reflex’ mode spaced at 44.64mm apart.
Take a note of these details





3: Operating Procedures



Key Point: The above example shows the spacing required using a standard type
‘A’ probe set (A-ST), as supplied with the model U3000/U4000A.

Selecting the operating mode

On large pipes using either type ‘B’ or ‘D’ sensors it may be necessary to use the ‘Diagonal’ mode of
operation rather than the ‘Reflex’ mode – due to signal strength or sensor location. The system will
automatically select ‘Reflex’ mode if it is valid, but the mode can be changed using the following steps.

16. When in the SENSOR SEPARATION screen press either the Up or Down arrow keys. This will display the
SENSOR SELECTION menu.

17. Scroll down to Sensor mode and press ENTER.

18. Scroll to the required mode and press ENTER.

19. Select Exit and press ENTER, to return to the SENSOR SEPARATION screen.

20. The correct sensor separation distance for the selected mode will now be displayed.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 23
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

Note: Do not press ENTER (to continue with the operating procedure) until the transducers are fitted and
connected to the instrument.

3: Operating Procedures

Please wait..
Checking signals

****************************************
* *
****************************************

FLOW READING DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Qxx.xx%

Signal

l/min

+Total: 0.00 litres
–Total: 0.00 litres

0.000

Password Control

After data has been entered for the first time, the U3000/U4000 password control feature is ‘enabled’ when
you exit from Quick start to the FLOW READING screen. This prevents unauthorised tampering of the set­up data. Once ‘enabled’, a password control box is displayed if any key is pressed and you must then enter
71360 to ‘disable’ the password control and gain access to any of the menus.

Note: Once disabled, the password control feature is re-enabled if no keys are pressed for five minutes.

Attaching and connecting the transducers

21. Fit the designated sensors to the pipe using the guide rail as described in Paragraph 2.3.2. The
separation distance must be set to within ±0.5mm.

Taking a flow reading

22. Once the transducers have been fitted and
connected press the ENTER key twice.

23. This will take you from the SENSOR

SEPARATION screen to the FLOW
READING screen via the signal-checking

screen (shown here).

24. Check that the indicated signal strength on
the left of the screen shows at least 2 bars
(ideally 3 or 4). If less than 2 bars are
shown it indicates there could be a problem
with the transducer spacing, alignment or
connections; or an application problem.

25. Qxx.xx% indicates the signal quality and
should have a value of 60% or greater.

Flow monitoring

The FLOW READING screen is the one most used during normal monitoring operation. It shows the
instantaneous fluid flow together with totalised values (when enabled). In this mode you can select the flow
rate measurement units by pressing keys 7 (litres), 8 (Gallons, Barrels) or 9 (m³), or change the display to
show velocity by pressing key 4.

If the flow reading exceeds a value of +/-9999 in the current units then a *10 multiplier will be displayed
above the units and the value displayed will be a tenth of the actual value. Similarly a * 100 and *1000 may be
displayed on very large flow rates.

There are limitations on the use of these larger flow values with regards to logging of data and setting the
current and pulse outputs. Flow readings with a multiplier may not down load correctly to Portagraph.

Once a valid flow reading is obtained, if the pipe conditions change (such that the flow reading is lost) then
the system will automatically rescan to re-establish a stable flow reading. It is important that the instrument is
left with the FLOW READING screen on the display because the automatic rescan is disabled if any of the
other screens that can be reached from the FLOW READING screen are being displayed.

Note: There will be a delay in the keyboard response if a rescan is in progress when a key is pressed.

24 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3.3 Instrument Calibration

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.100
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.100
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

The instrument is fully calibrated before it leaves the factory; however the following adjustments are provided
to allow you to further ‘fine tune’ your instrument to suit local conditions and application where necessary.
Apart from the zero flow offset adjustment, these are normally carried out only where the instrument is to be
used at a permanent, or semi-permanent, location.

3.3.1 Adjusting the zero cut-off

This adjustment allows you to set a minimum flow rate (m/s) below which the instrument will indicate ‘0’. The
default setting is 0.1 m/s but you may adjust this value if required.

1. With the instrument operating in FLOW
READING mode, press the Options key to
access the FLOW READING OPTIONS
menu shown (password required).

2. Select Zero Cutoff (m/s) and press
ENTER.

3. Enter the value for the Zero Cutoff (e.g.

0.06 m/s) then press ENTER.

4. Scroll down to select Exit and press ENTER to return to the FLOW READING screen.

3: Operating Procedures

3.3.2 Adjusting the set zero flow offset

The U4000 instrument operates by comparing the time taken to send an ultrasonic signal between two
transducers in either direction. A Set zero flow offset adjustment is provided to compensate for any
inherent differences between the two sensors, noise pick-up, internal pipe conditions etc. It can be used to
‘zero’ the flow indication under no-flow conditions.

Key Point: If you have adjusted the Zero Cutoff point to anywhere above ‘0’ you
must reset it to ‘0’ before you can observe and adjust the Set zero flow offset, as
its value is very small. Once the Set zero flow offset has been cancelled you can
then reapply the Zero Cutoff if required.

1. Stop the liquid flow.

2. With the instrument in FLOW READING mode press the Velocity function key and observe the reading
(m/s). Any reading other than 0.000 indicates an offset error and in practice this will typically be in the
range ±0.005m/s (possibly higher on smaller diameter pipes). If a greater figure is shown it is worth
cancelling the offset to obtain a more accurate result. Continue as follows:

3. Press the Options key to access the
FLOW READING OPTION screen shown.

4. Select Set zero flow (m/s) and press
ENTER.

5. Press ENTER on the subsequent screen to
accept the change, which will return you to
the screen shown.

6. Scroll down to select Exit and press
ENTER to return to the FLOW READING screen.

Key Point: In order to cancel any applied offset you must read the flow via Quick
Start. Any value that you trim-out using the offset adjustment will be added/

subtracted from the flow reading across the whole range.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 25
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3: Operating Procedures

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

Reset –Total
Calibration factor : 1.000
Roughness factor : 0.010
Alarm Settings :
Max Pulse Freq (Hz) : 10.00
Flow at Max Frequency : 200.00
Calculated Pulse Value: 2.00
Diagnostics
Exit

3.3.3 Adjusting the calibration factor

Key Point: USE THIS FACILITY WITH CARE & ONLY WHERE NECESSARY

The instrument is fully calibrated before leaving the factory and under normal cir­cumstances does not require further calibration when used on site.

This facility can be used to correct the flow indication where unavoidable errors occur
due to the lack of a straight pipe or where the sensors are forced to be fitted close to
the pipe-end, valve, junction etc.

Any adjustment must be made using a reference flowmeter fitted in the system.

With the system running:

1. Stop (Stall) the totaliser facility and zero it (Paragraph 3.5).

2. Run the totaliser to measure the total flow over a 30-60 minute period, and note the total flow indicated by
the reference flow meter over the same period.

3. Calculate the % error between the U3000/U4000 instrument and reference meters. If the error is greater
than ±1% calibrate the U3000/U4000 as detailed below.

4. Press the Options key to access the
FLOW READING OPTION screen shown.

5. Scroll down and select Calibration
factor then press ENTER.

6. Change the calibration factor according to
the error calculated in step 3. For example,
if the instrument was reading 1% high then
increase the Calibration factor value
by 0.010. Conversely, if the reading is 1%
low then decrease the calibration factor to

0.990.

7. Press ENTER to apply the change.

8. Select Roughness factor or Exit as
required and press ENTER.

3.3.4 Adjusting the roughness factor

The roughness factor compensates for the condition of the internal pipe wall, as a rough surface will cause
turbulence and affects the flow profile of the liquid. In most situations it is not possible to inspect the pipe
internally and the true condition is not known. In these circumstances experience has shown that the
following values can be used:

Pipe Material Roughness

Non ferrous metal

26 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

•Glass

• Plastics

• Light metal

Drawn steel pipes:

• Fine planed, polished
surface.

• Plane surface

• Rough planed surface

Pipe Material Roughness

Factor

0.01 Welded steel pipes, new:

• Long usage, cleaned

• Lightly and evenly rusted

• Heavily encrusted

0.01 Cast iron pipes:

• Bitumen lining

• New, without lining

• Rusted / Encrusted

Factor

0.1

1.0

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3: Operating Procedures

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

Reset –Total
Calibration factor : 1.000
Roughness factor : 0.010
Alarm Settings :
Max Pulse Freq (Hz) : 10.00
Flow at Max Frequency : 200.00
Calculated Pulse Value: 2.00
Diagnostics
Exit

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

Reset –Total
Calibration factor : 1.000
Roughness factor : 0.010
Alarm Settings :
Max Pulse Freq (Hz) : 10.00
Flow at Max Frequency : 200.00
Calculated Pulse Value: 2.00
Diagnostics
Exit

DAMPING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

1 second
10 seconds
15 seconds
20 seconds
30 seconds
50 seconds
60 seconds
120 seconds
240 seconds

The increase in the roughness factor has the effect of reducing the measured flow rate, compensating for the
drag caused by the rougher internal surface.

With the system running in FLOW READING mode:

1. Press the Options key to access the
FLOW READING OPTION screen shown.

2. Scroll down and select Roughness
factor then press ENTER.

3. Change the roughness factor according to
the pipe material and condition as
described above.

4. Press ENTER to apply the change.

3.3.5 Adjusting the damping factor

By averaging-out the flow rate over several seconds, the Damping factor can be used to smooth out
rapid changes in flow rate to prevent wild fluctuations in the displayed flow value. It has a range of 1 to 50
seconds, with a default setting of 10. With the system running in FLOW READING mode:

1. Press the Options key to access the
FLOW READING OPTION screen shown.

2. Scroll down and select Damping (secs)
and press ENTER. This will open the
DAMPING OPTION screen.

3. Select the value of the Damping factor
as required to remove any unwanted
display fluctuations. Increasing the value

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 27
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

applies a greater smoothing affect.

4. Press ENTER to apply the change.

3: Operating Procedures

4-20 mA OUTPUT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

4-20 mA O/P is ON

mA Output Reading : 0.00
Output Range : 4-20
Units : l/min
Flow at max. output : 0.00
Flow at min. output : 0.00
Output mA for error : 22.00

Exit

4-20 mA OUTPUT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Off
4-20mA
0-20mA
0-16mA

SETUP INSTRUMENT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Set Date & Time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Calibrate 4-20mA
Pulse output
Factory settings
Change Language
Exit

Key Point: If the damping factor is set too high the value displayed may appear
stable but might exhibit large step changes when the value is updated.

3.4 Outputs

Both the U3000 and U4000 have configurable Current, Pulse and Alarm outputs.

3.4.1 Current output

Note: Where long cab le runs are necessary, or noise pickup is causing unstable flow readings, the use of two
core screened cable, such as BELDEN 9501 060U500, or similar, is recommended for use with the 4-20mA
current output. The cable screen should be connected to the RS232 GND terminal.

How to turn the 4-20mA output OFF/ON

1. With the instrument operating in the FLOW
READING mode, press the 4-20mA function

key. This will access the 4-20mA OUTPUT
screen.

2. The ON/OFF status of the 4-20mA output is
shown on line 2 of the display.

3. To change the ON/OFF status select
Output Range and press ENTER

4. Select Off, to turn OFF the 4-20mA Output
or select one of the output ranges to turn it
ON.

5. Press ENTER to return to the 4-20mA
OUTPUT screen

4-20mA Signal calibration and ranging

Key Point: The 4-20mA output has been calibrated in the factory and should not
require further adjustment. In the rare event that re-calibration is necessary, this
procedure should be carried out only by a trained engineer.

This procedure describes how to calibrate the 4-20mA output and ‘scale’ it to operate over a defined flow-rate
range.

Signal calibration

6. Select Setup Instrument from the MAIN
MENU then press ENTER to access the
SETUP INSTRUMENT screen.

7. Select Calibrate 4-20mA. and press
ENTER

28 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3: Operating Procedures

CALIBRATE 4mA DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Adjust the output current to 4mA

Use

 to set, 5/6 to trim

DAC Value: 8000

Press

 when done

CALIBRATE 20mA DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Adjust the output current to 20mA

Use

 to set, 5/6 to trim

DAC Value: 40000

Press

 when done

4-20 mA OUTPUT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

4-20 mA O/P is ON

mA Output Reading : 0.00
Output Range : 4-20
Units : l/min
Flow at max. output : 0.00
Flow at min. output : 0.00
Output mA for error : 22.00

Exit

4 8 12 16 20

F

max

Flow (l/min)

I (mA)

F

min

[0-16mA scale]

[0-20mA scale]

[4-20mA scale]

8. Connect a calibrated ammeter to the 4­20mA output and adjust the UP/DOWN
Scroll keys (Coarse) and LEFT/RIGHT
Scroll keys 5 & 6 (fine) until the output is
exactly 4.00mA.
The DAC should indicate approximately

8000.

9. Press ENTER when done.

10. With the meter still connected to the 4­20mA output adjust the Scroll keys to
obtain an output of exactly 20.00mA.
The DAC should indicate approximately

40000.

11. Press ENTER when done.

4-20mA Signal scaling

Note: The 4-20mA can be set to represent a particular flow range. It is also possible to enter a negative figure
for the minimum output and this would enable a reverse flow to be monitored.





12. With the instrument operating in the FLOW
READING mode, press the 4-20mA function

key. This will access the 4-20mA OUTPUT
screen.

13. Select Flow at max. output and press
ENTER, then enter a value of the flow
rate that you want to associate with a

20.00mA output.

14. Select Flow at min. output and press
ENTER then enter a value of the flow rate
that you want to associate with a 4.00mA
output. This could be ‘0’.

15. Select Output mA for error and enter a value (max of about 26mA) that you want the 4-20mA
output to produce in the event of an error (e.g. if the flow-rate is outside the set range).

16. Upon completion press ENTER to return to the FLOW READING screen.

How to convert the measured current to flow rate

Assume the maximum flow rate is F

(l/min) and the minimum flow rate F

max

is ‘0’ (l/min), as shown.

min

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 29
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3: Operating Procedures

Flow rate

IF

maxFmin

–

20

------------------------------------------- F

min

+=

Flow rate

IF

maxFmin

–

16

------------------------------------------- F

min

+=

Flow rate

I 4–F

maxFmin

–

16

--------------------------------------------------------- F

min

+=

PULSE OUTPUT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Pulse output is ON

Flow units : litres
Output : Off
Vol per pulse : 10.00
Pulse width (ms) : 10
Exit

PULSE OUTPUT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Pulse output is ON

Flow units : litres
Output : Off
Vol per pulse : 10.00
Pulse width (ms) : 10
Exit

To calculate the flow rate (l/min) for a measured current I(mA) then:

0-20mA 0-16mA 4-20mA

3.4.2 Pulse output (for Pulse Frequency Output see page 44)

Pulse output configuration

Two parameters can be configured from the PULSE OUTPUT menu:

• Volume of fluid per pulse.

• Pulse width.

1. With the instrument operating in the FLOW
READING mode, press the Pulse function

key to access the PULSE OUTPUT screen.

2. Ensure that the Output is Off.

3. Select Vol per pulse and press ENTER.

4. Enter the required value. (In the example
shown, a pulse is produced every 10 litres
of flow).

Note: The

5. Select a Pulse width (in ms) to suit the particular application – e.g. electro-mechanical counter. Refer to
the manufacturer’s data sheet for the minimum pulse width.

6. Select Exit and press ENTER to return to the FLOW READING screen.

How to turn the pulse output OFF/ON

1. With the instrument operating in the FLOW
READING mode, press the Pulse function

key to access the PULSE OUTPUT menu.

2. Select Output and press ENTER.

3. Select On and press ENTER.

4. A Pulse output is ON message will appear

in the second line of the display.

5. Select Exit and press ENTER to return to
the FLOW READING screen.

Vol per pulse

3.4.3 Alarm outputs

Both the U3000 and U4000 models contain two programmable alarm outputs that are interfaced by opto­isolated relays. The relay contacts are rated at a 48V (maximum voltage across the open contacts) and
500mA (maximum continuous current through the closed contacts).

The two alarm outputs can be individually configured to operate in one of five modes:

• Activate at a predefined Low or High flow rate.

• Activate when a specified Volume is measured.

• Activate if a signal error is detected – either due to poor signal strength or complete signal loss.

• Alarm Test mode.

• Pulse Frequency output.

30 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

can only be changed if the

Pulse Output

is

Off

.

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

Alarm settings selection

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

Reset –Total
Calibration factor : 1.000
Roughness factor : 0.010
Alarm Settings :
Max Pulse Freq (Hz) : 10.00
Flow at Max Frequency : 200.00
Calculated Pulse Value: 2.00
Diagnostics
Exit

ALARM SETTINGS DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Alarm1 Mode
Alarm1 Level : <value>
Alarm2 Mode
Alarm2 Level : <value>
Exit
Alarm1 ON Alarm2 ON

ALARM1 MODE DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Off
Low
High
Volume
On Flow Error
Alarm Test

Frequency

ALARM SETTINGS DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Alarm1 Mode
Alarm1 Level : <value>
Alarm2 Mode
Alarm2 Level : <value>
Exit
Alarm1 ON Alarm2 ON

1. To access the The ALARM SETTINGS
menu select Alarm Settings from the

FLOW READING OPTION menu and press
ENTER.

2. The ALARM SETTINGS screen should be
displayed, as shown below.
This screen shows two parameters (Mode
and Limit) that can be individually set for
Alarm 1 and Alarm 2.

Alarm configuration

1. To setup Alarm 1 select Alarm1 Mode and
press ENTER. This will access the ALARM1
MODE menu screen (shown below).



3: Operating Procedures

2. Scroll down the menu to the required alarm
operating mode and press ENTER to select.

3. This will return you to the ALARM
SETTINGS menu.

4. If the selected mode is Low, High or
Volume, select Alarm1 Level, enter an

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 31
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

appropriate value and press ENTER to set
the alarm operating point (see below).

3: Operating Procedures

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

Reset –Total
Calibration factor : 1.000
Roughness factor : 0.010
Alarm Settings :
Max Pulse Freq (Hz) : 10.00
Flow at Max Frequency : 200.00
Calculated Pulse Value: 2.00
Diagnostics
Exit

ALARM SETTINGS DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Alarm1 Mode
Alarm1 Limit : <value>
Alarm2 Mode
Alarm2 Limit : <value>
Exit
Alarm1 ON Alarm2 ON

High or Low limit values

If High or Low limits are selected, the value entered in the ALARM SETTINGS menu must be in the range 

-9999 to +9999. This value is in the units previously selected (e.g. l/min, gal/s). The default value is

+9999.

Volume limit values

If VOL limit is selected, the value entered in the ALARM SETTINGS menu must be in the range 

-3,999,999,999.99 to +3,999,999,999.99. This value will be in the units previous selected (e.g. litres,

m3, gals) The default value should be +3,999,999,999.99.

Alarm Test

1. Select Alarm Test and press ENTER in the Alarm1 MODE menu to test that Alarm1 can be activated.

2. Select Alarm Test and press ENTER in the Alarm2 MODE menu to test that Alarm2 can be activated.

Pulse Frequency

When Frequency is selected, a variable frequency pulse proportional to the flow rate can be output at the
ALARM 1 or ALARM 2 outputs. When this feature is used, the Max Pulse freq (Hz) and Flow at Max
Frequency must be set in the FLOW READING OPTION menu. (Refer to page 44 for operation with the

Calec® ST Energy Totaliser for full details.)

Resetting an alarm

When either Alarm1 or Alarm2 is activated, the appropriate relay will be held in the closed position until:

• The activation condition is removed, or

• The Alarm is reset.

Both Alarm1 and Alarm2 can be reset by using one of the following procedure:

1. Access the The ALARM SETTINGS menu
by selecting Alarm Settings from the

FLOW READING OPTION menu and press
ENTER.



2. The ALARM SETTINGS screen should be
displayed, as shown below.

Alarm configuration

1. To reset Alarm 1 select Alarm1 Mode and
press ENTER. This will access the ALARM1
MODE menu screen (shown below).

32 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

2. Select Off from the menu and press

ALARM1 MODE DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Off
Low
High
Volume
On Flow Error
Alarm Test

Frequency

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Stall
Reset +Total

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.00
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.00
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total
Reset –Total

FLOW READING DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Qxx.xx%

Signal

l/min

+Total: 300.0 litres
–Total: 0.00 litres

12.34

ENTER.

3. This should de-activate the alarm.

To re-arm the alarm you must ensure that
the activation condition is removed and
then reconfigure the Alarm Mode as
described above on

page 31.

3.5 How to Measure Totalised Flows (manually)

The basic measurement indicated on the FLOW READING screen is the instantaneous flow rate, which in
some applications may vary over a period of time. Average flow rates are therefore often required in order to
get a better understanding of an application’s true performance. This is simply achieved by noting the total
flow over a specific period (for example 30-60 minutes) and then calculating the average flow rate over that
period of time.

1. Press the Options key to access the
FLOW READING OPTION screen shown.

2. If the Totaliser is indicating Run, select
it and change it to Stall. Press ENTER.

3. Select Reset +Total and press ENTER.

4. Press ENTER on the subsequent screen to
accept the reset.

5. Press ENTER again to return to the FLOW
READING OPTIONS menu.

6. Select Reset –Total and press ENTER.

7. Press ENTER on the subsequent screen to
accept the reset.

8. Press ENTER again to return to the FLOW
READING OPTIONS menu.

9. Note and record the current time.

10. Select Totaliser and change it to Run.
Press ENTER.

3: Operating Procedures

Note: the totalisers begin to count up as soon as Totaliser is set to Run.

11. Scroll down and select Exit to return to
the FLOW READING screen which will now
indicate the instantaneous flow together
with the totalised flow.



Note that in some installations the
measured flow can be in either direction.
Where this is the case the upstream flow is
shown separately in the –Total field.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 33
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3: Operating Procedures

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

Reset –Total
Calibration factor : 1.000
Roughness factor : 0.010
Alarm Settings :
Max Pulse Freq (Hz) : 10.00
Flow at Max Frequency : 200.00
Calculated Pulse Value: 2.00
Diagnostics
Select Totals : +Total
Chiller Delay : 0
Chiller Options : Off
Exit

Calculating the average flow

To calculate the average flow wait for the allotted monitoring period to expire then divide the indicated total
flow by the time taken. This will give you the average flow in m/s, galls/hour or whatever units you select.

Note that in a bi-directional flow situation you must calculate the difference between the indicated positive
and negative flow totals before carrying out the average flow rate calculation.

How to stop the totaliser temporarily

If you want to stop the totaliser temporarily for operational reasons, set the Totaliser option to Stall in
the FLOW READING OPTIONS screen as described above. This will stop the totaliser operation without
affecting its current values.

3.6 Display of totalisers

1. To change the display of the totalisers select
the Select Totals menu item from the
FLOW READING OPTION menu.

2. The display of the totals on the FLOW
READING screen is controlled by this menu.

3. Select one, both or no totals to be displayed.
The default is the display of the +Total.

4. Press the ENTER key.

Note: This menu selection only affects the Display of the totaliser. Unless the totalisers are stalled, the
recorded volume will still be incremented and the totals will be logged irrespective of the display setting.

3.7 Setting the Chiller Options

When there is a significant change in flow rate in a chiller system the acoustic properties of the fluid can
change such that the signal is temporarily lost or a false flow reading is obtained. Under these conditions the
normal action of the U3000/U4000 system is to go to a fault state on both the flow reading and the current
output, which may be undesirable on a short term loss of signal. This potential problem can be overcome by
selecting a suitable setting in the Chiller Options sub-menu and entering an appropriate value for the
Chiller Delay option, as follows.

1. Press the Options key to access the
FLOW READING OPTION screen shown.

2. Scroll down and select Chiller
Options and press ENTER. This will open
the CHILLER OPTIONS screen.

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Off
Both
+Total

-Total

34 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3: Operating Procedures

CHILLER OPTIONS DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Off
Zero
Negative
Hold
No Reset

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

Reset –Total
Calibration factor : 1.000
Roughness factor : 0.010
Alarm Settings :
Max Pulse Freq (Hz) : 10.00
Flow at Max Frequency : 200.00
Calculated Pulse Value: 2.00
Diagnostics
Select Totals : +Total
Chiller Delay : 0
Chiller Options : Off
Exit

3. Select the required option, as detailed
below.

4. Press ENTER to apply the change.

Off

No change in response to a lost signal. This is the default value.

Zero

Disables the fault condition, and the system’s outputs act as if the flow reading has gone to zero.

Negative

A false negative flow reading may be generated as a result of the poor conditions in the pipe; but with this
option selected any negative readings are displayed as zero flow.

Hold

With this option selected, the flow reading will remain at the last valid value for a time period set by the
Chiller Delay (s). After which time the normal fault condition will occur.

No Reset

Used to prevent the system changing the flow reading setup when the fluid conditions change and then, after
a delay when the conditions return to normal, changing back to the original setup. This may reduce the time
that the poor conditions affect the performance of the instrument, by not reacting to a short term fault
condition.

3.7.1 Setting the Chiller Delay

If a signal fault occurs when the CHILLER OPTION is set to Hold, the selected Chiller Delay determines
how long, in seconds, the flow reading is held at the last valid value before it reverts to a fault condition.

1. Press the Options key to access the
FLOW READING OPTION screen shown.

2. Scroll down and select Chiller Delay
then press ENTER.

3. Using the numerical keypad, enter a
Chiller Delay value between 0 (default)
and 9999 seconds.

4. Press ENTER to apply the change.

5. The applied Chiller Delay value will
now be displayed.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 35
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3: Operating Procedures

36 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

4: Data Logging & Communications (U4000)

REAL TIME LOGGER DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS
Logging to Memory
Unit : l/min
Log name : Quickstart
Log data to : Memory
Logging interval : 10 seconds
Start date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Stop date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss

MM DD HH MM SS
Remaining time : mm dd hh mm ss
Memory Rollover : Overwrite
Graph Y axis max. : 50
Log Totals : +Total
View log as text
View log as graph
START NOW
Set Auto start
Clear log
Exit

ERR:Log not empty DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Press  to confirm deletion
Press

 to save log and continue

Press

 to cancel

4.1 How to Set Up the Basic Logging Application to Memory

This procedure shows you how to set up a basic logging session under manual start/stop control.

Logged data is saved to the instrument’s memory and can be downloaded to a PC at a later time. Either 

-Flow Rate or +Flow Rate and ±Totals can be logged to Memory, RS232 or both. Totals are always logged

and can be selectively down loaded after the logging has stopped.

Key Point: Data logged in MGD or MGD(imp) cannot be downloaded via Portagraph.

Key Point: To view the totals on the screen and send them to the RS232/USB output

as they are logged, you have to select the required option in the Data Logger menu
before setting up the flow reading.

Setting up and starting the logging

1. With the U4000 operating in FLOW
READING mode, check that the indicated

flow units are the same as those you want
to appear on the logger output 
(e.g. l/min).

2. Press the Logger function key to access
the REAL TIME LOGGER screen.

3. Select Log data to and choose Memory
to store the log to the instrument’s internal
memory.

4. Select Logging interval and enter the
required period (e.g. 10 seconds).

5. Select Clear log if you want to discard
any existing logging data.

6. Select START NOW.

7. This screen appears only if a log already
exists for the QuickStart site. It allows

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 37
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

you to either delete or save the existing
log, or cancel the START NOW request.

4: Data Logging & Communications

VIEW LOG AS TEXT DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS
Logging to memory
Log:Quickstart l/m
Date Time Flow
DD-MM-YY hh:mm:ss xxx.xx
DD-MM-YY hh:mm:ss xxx.xx
DD-MM-YY hh:mm:ss xxx.xx
DD-MM-YY hh:mm:ss xxx.xx

--------
DD-MM-YY hh:mm:ss xxx.xx

REAL TIME LOGGER DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS
Logging to Memory
Unit : l/min
Log name : Quickstart
Log data to : Memory
Logging interval : 10 seconds
Start date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Stop date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss

MM DD HH MM SS
Remaining time : mm dd hh mm ss
Memory Rollover : Overwrite
Graph Y axis max. : 50
Log Totals : +Total
View log as text
View log as graph
START NOW
Set Auto start
Clear log
Exit

VIEW LOG AS GRAPH DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

50.00
Log: Quickstart
Point: XXX/XXX
Value: xx.xx
dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
–50.00

Monitoring the logged events as a table

1. The VIEW LOG AS TEXT screen displays
the log events in date-stamped
chronological order. 



Press key 5 to go to the top line of logged
data or key 6 to go to the bottom line.

2. Press the ENTER key to return to the REAL
TIME LOGGER screen. Then select Exit
to return to the FLOW READING screen.
Logging will continue to take place in the
background.

Key Point: There can be only one set of logged data per site. If a new data log
is started on a site it will clear the existing data.

Monitoring the logged events as a graphic

1. If you want to view the logging progress
graphically rather than as text, press the

Logger function key to get to the REAL
TIME LOGGER screen.

2. Select Graph Y axis max and enter a
value slightly greater than the expected
maximum flow.

3. Select View log as graph. This will
open the VIEW LOG AS GRAPH screen
shown below.

4. You can select the data at any point in time
by scrolling along the time axis of the graph
using the LEFT/RIGHT scroll keys (5 & 6).
The data values for the selected point are
then shown to the left of the graph. Keep
the scroll key pressed for the cursor to
move automatically.

5. If you want to change the value of the Y
axis to improve the resolution of the graph
press the UP/DOWN scroll keys. The
maximum values will then increase/
decrease as appropriate.

6. To exit the VIEW LOG AS GRAPH screen
and return to the REAL TIME LOGGER
screen press ENTER.

38 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

Monitoring the logged events at a later time

If you wish to monitor the logging progress at any time while you are operating in FLOW READING mode
without interfering with the logging operation:

1. Press the Logger function key as described above to switch to the REAL TIME LOGGER screen.

2. Select View log as text or View log as graph, as required.

Key Point: To ensure that logging and flow readings continue under all
circumstances the display must be returned to the FLOW READING screen.

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

Stop logging

REAL TIME LOGGER DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Unit : l/min
Log name : Quickstart
Log data to : Memory
Logging interval : 10 seconds
Start date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Stop date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss

MM DD HH MM SS
Remaining time : mm dd hh mm ss
Memory Rollover : Overwrite
Graph Y axis max. : 50
Log Totals : +Total
View log as text
View log as graph
STOP NOW
Set Auto start
Clear log
Exit

REAL TIME LOGGER DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS
Logging to Memory
Unit : l/min
Log name : Quickstart
Log data to : Memory
Logging interval : 10 seconds
Start date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Stop date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss

MM DD HH MM SS
Remaining time : mm dd hh mm ss
Memory Rollover : Overwrite
Graph Y axis max. : 50
View log as text
View log as graph
START NOW
Set Auto start
Clear log
Exit

1. From the FLOW READING screen, press
the Logger function key to access the
REAL TIME LOGGER screen.

2. Select STOP NOW to cease logging. 
Note that the START NOW and STOP NOW
options toggle depending on which was last
selected.

3. Select Exit to return to the FLOW
READING screen.

4. Note that the logged data will remain stored
in the instrument’s memory and can be
accessed at any time as described above.

4: Data Logging & Communications

4.2 How to Set Up Automatic (Timed) Logging Mode

This procedure shows you how to set up an auto logging session under timed start/stop control. The logged
data is saved to the instrument’s memory and can be downloaded to a PC at a later time.

Starting point

This procedure assumes that the instrument has been correctly installed and is operating in the FLOW
READING mode. Also that the instrument’s date and time are correctly set.

Setting up, starting and cancelling auto logging

Key Point: When entering the Start and Stop times in this procedure, you must
enter ‘00’ in the seconds field rather than leave it blank, otherwise an error message
is displayed.

1. With the U4000 instrument operating in FLOW READING mode, check that the indicated flow units are the
same as those you want to appear on the logger output (e.g. l/min).

2. Press the Logger function key to access
the REAL TIME LOGGER screen.

3. Select Log data to and choose Memory.
This will store the log to the internal
memory.

4. Select Logging interval and enter the
required period (e.g. 10 seconds).

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 39
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

5. Select Start date & time and enter the
date and time you wish logging to
commence. Note this must be in the future.

6. Select Stop date & time and enter the
date and time you wish logging to cease.
Note this must be later than the start time.

7. If the instrument is to be left unattended for
a long logging period of time the logged
data could possibly fill the memory. Select
the Memory Rollover option to either

4: Data Logging & Communications

REAL TIME LOGGER DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS
Logging to Memory
Unit : l/min
Log name : Quickstart
Log data to : Memory
Logging interval : 10 seconds
Start date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Stop date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss

MM DD HH MM SS
Remaining time : mm dd hh mm ss
Memory Rollover : Overwrite
Graph Y axis max. : 50
View log as text
View log as graph
START NOW
Cancel Auto Start
Clear log
Exit

REAL TIME LOGGER DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Unit : l/min
Log name : Quickstart
Log data to : Memory
Logging interval : 10 seconds
Start date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Stop date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss

MM DD HH MM SS
Remaining time : mm dd hh mm ss
Memory Rollover : Overwrite
Graph Y axis max. : 50
View log as text
View log as graph
STOP NOW
Set Auto start
Clear log
Exit

Stop or Overwrite. This determines what happens to the stored data if the memory becomes full.
Similarly, select Clear log if you want to ensure that maximum memory is available.

Note: if you select to clear all logs you will lose all the currently held log data.

8. Select Set auto start. This enables the
auto logging application. 



If Set Auto start is enabled with valid
start and stop times then this entry will
change to Cancel Auto start.

9. To cancel the automatic logging session
before it commences, click the Cancel
Auto Start.

10. Select Exit to return to the FLOW
READING screen.

Monitoring the logged events

This is described in detail in Paragraph 4.1. If you wish to view the logging progress at any time while you are
operating in FLOW READING mode, without interfering with the logging operation:

1. Press the Logger function key as described above to access the REAL TIME LOGGER screen.

2. Select View log as text or View log as graph, as required.

Manually stopping the auto logging session

1. The logging session will stop automatically
at the programmed Stop date & time.

2. If you wish to manually stop logging earlier
than programmed, press the Logger
function key to access the REAL TIME
LOGGER screen then select STOP NOW to
cease logging.

3. Select Exit to return to the FLOW

READING screen.


40 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

The logged data will remain stored in the
instrument’s memory and can be viewed at
any time as described above.

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

4.3 How to Log Directly to a PC

REAL TIME LOGGER DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Unit : l/min
Log name : Quickstart
Log data to : RS232
Logging interval : 10 seconds
Start date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss
Stop date & time : dd-mm-yy hh:mm:ss

MM DD HH MM SS
Remaining time : mm dd hh mm ss
Memory Rollover : Overwrite
Graph Y axis max. : 50
View log as text
View log as graph
STOP NOW
Set Auto start
Clear log
Exit

VIEW LOGGED DATA DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Choose from list of sites
View log as text
View log as graph
Graph Y axis max. : 1.00
Download log
Clear log

Exit

Instead of logging to the instrument's internal
memory, real time data logging to a PC can be
accomplished as follows:

1. With the U4000 instrument operating in
FLOW READING mode, press the Logger
function key to access the REAL TIME
LOGGER screen.

2. Select Log data to and press ENTER.

3. Select RS232 and press ENTER.

4. If necessary, change the Logging interval.

5. Select START NOW and press ENTER. Real
time data logging to the PC will now
commence at the specified logging interval.

6. To STOP logging to the PC, select STOP
NOW from the REAL TIME LOGGER menu
and press ENTER.

4: Data Logging & Communications

Note: In order for the above procedure to work,
the U4000 must be connected to the PC and the RS232/USB link already established.

4.4 How to Log Directly to Both Memory and PC

Logging simultaneously to both the unit's internal memory and to the PC (or Printer) can be set up as follows:

1. From the REAL TIME LOGGER menu, select Log data to and then select Both.

2. Select START NOW to begin the logging session.

Key Point: This will only work if the U4000 is connected to the PC and the RS232
link has already been established. If the RS232 protocol has not been configured you
can access the RS232 set-up screen by pressing the Comms button.

4.5 How to Download Logged Data to a PC

This procedure describes how to download stored data to a PC. It assumes that the U4000 is already
connected to the PC’s serial port and that RS232/USB communication has been established, as described in

Paragraph 4.6

1. Access the MAIN MENU.

Note: If this is done from the FLOW READING screen any logging currently taking place will be terminated.

2. Select View Logged Data from the MAIN
MENU.

3. Only two sites are available on the U4000.
One non-editable site name (QuickStart)
and one editable site name (default

EmptySite1). Select Choose from
list of sites and select one of these

site names to download.

.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 41
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

4: Data Logging & Communications

VIEW LOGGED DATA DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Off
Both
+Total
–Total

DOWNLOAD LOG DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Select Serial port or printer & press



USB
RS232

Exit

4. The totals are always logged. If you wish to
display them when either viewing a log or
downloading it to a PC or printer, then use
the options in Select Log Totals. The
default is Off. (Portagraph III does not
display the totals, even if they are enabled).

5. If you want to view the log prior to
downloading it you can do so using the

View log as text or View log as
graph options.

6. When you are ready to begin downloading the log select Download log.

7. From the DOWNLOAD LOG screen select
USB or RS232 then select Send from the
subsequent confirmation screen.

8. The selected logged data is now
downloaded to the PC.

9. Upon completion select Exit to return to
the VIEW LOGGED DATA screen.

10. On the VIEW LOGGED DATA screen you
can now Clear the log if required or Exit
directly back to the MAIN MENU.

Key Point: When using the USB to download data, make sure that the USB driver
has been installed and the correct COM port has been set (see

4.6 Working with Portagraph III

Micronics Ltd supplies the ‘Portagraph III Downloading and Graphing’ software to make it easy for the user to
downloading logged data to a PC. Logged data can then be downloaded and analysed using the Portagraph
III graphing capability, or exported to Microsoft Excel® for more detailed graphing and analysis.

Portagraph III will automatically detect the unit's RS232 configuration (baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits)
so there is no need for the user to specifically set this up.

For full details of Portagraph III operation, refer to the Portagraph III user manual.

Key Point: Data logged in MGD or MGD(imp) cannot be downloaded via Portagraph.

4.7 Printing

Logged data can be printed using an RS232-compatible printer.

4.7.1 How to print logged data using the RS232 printer

This procedure shows you how to set up and use the RS232 printer to print logged data.

Setting up an RS232 connection

1. Connect the TXD Data, RXD Data and Signal Ground wires from the Printer to the terminal blocks on the
U4000.

Paragraph 2.4).

42 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

4: Data Logging & Communications

SETUP RS232 / USB DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Handshaking : Xon/Xoff
Baud Rate : 1200
Data Bits : 8
Stop Bits : 1
Parity : None
New line : CR+LF

Printer test :
Exit

VIEW LOGGED DATA DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Choose from list of sites
View log as text
View log as graph
Graph Y axis max. : 1.00
Download log
Clear log

Exit

DOWNLOAD LOG DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Select Serial port or printer & press



USB
RS232

Exit

DOWNLOAD LOG DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Send
Exit

2. Select Setup RS232 / USB from the
MAIN MENU. This will access the SETUP
RS232/USB screen shown here.

3. Set the RS232 parameters to comply with
those for the printer. 



The parameters shown here are for the
Seiko DPU-414 Thermal Printer.

4. Ensure that the printer has sufficient paper,
is switched ON and ON LINE.

5. To check that the U4000 printer interface is operational, select Printer test from the SETUP RS232/
USB menu. If the RS232 interface is working correctly the following message will be printed:

<software revisions>

<unit serial number>

If nothing is printed, check that the RS232 parameter settings are correct for the printer and that the
U4000 TxD and RxD signals are compatible with the printer’s RS232 interface. A gender changer may
be required to swap the TxD and RxD signals.

Printing logged data

1. Select View Logged Data from the MAIN
MENU. This will display the VIEW LOGGED
DATA screen shown.

2. Select Choose from list of sites
and select the site name for the log you
want to print.

3. When you are ready to begin printing the
log select Download log.

4. From the DOWNLOAD LOG screen select

RS232. This will open the SETUP RS232/
USB screen shown below.

5. Select Send from the DOWNLOAD LOG
screen. The printer should now start
printing.

6. The message screen will be displayed
while printing takes place (see next page).

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 43
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

4: Data Logging & Communications

SETUP RS232/USB DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data is being downloaded on RS232

This screen will clear
when download is completed.
Press

 to cancel Download

T

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

Reset –Total
Calibration factor : 1.000
Roughness factor : 0.010
Alarm Settings :
Max Pulse Freq (Hz) : 10.00
Flow at Max Frequency : 200.00
Calculated Pulse Value: 2.00
Diagnostics
Exit

7. Printing will continue until all logged data is
output or until the  key is pressed. 



The printer will continue printing until its
print buffer is empty, which may take a few
minutes.

4.8 Operation with the Calec®ST Energy Totaliser

The U3000/U4000 can be operated with the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser, which allows accumulated Energy
measurement to be made. In this configuration, one Pt100 (or Pt500) temperature sensor is fitted to the

output pipe (hot side) and another to the return pipe (cold side). The temperature difference ( = Thot -
Tcold), measured by the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser, together with the pulse input from the U3000/U4000,

allows the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser to calculate and display the accumulated Energy absorbed by the
heating system.

4.8.1 Pulse output

When working with the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser, the U3000/U4000 normal pulse output is not used.
Instead, a pulse whose frequency is proportional to the flow rate is independently generated and output on
ALARM1 or ALARM2 outputs. This gives a more stable reading, than the pulse "packets" that would normally
be output.

4.8.2 Connecting the U3000/U4000 to the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser

Connect the U3000/U4000 to the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser as follows:

1. Connect ALARM1+ (or ALARM2+) to the Calec's Pulse input + (10)

2. Connect ALARM1- (or ALARM2-) to the Calec's Pulse input - (11)

4.8.3 Configuring the U3000/U4000

Configure the U3000/U4000 frequency pulse output using the following procedure:

1. From the FLOW READING screen, press
the Options key to select the FLOW
READING OPTIONS menu, shown.



Note: You may need to enter the password
first.

2. Scroll down to Alarm Settings and
press ENTER to select the ALARM
SETTINGS menu shown below.



44 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

3. Select Alarm 1 Mode and press ENTER

ALARM SETTINGS DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Alarm1 Mode Off
Alarm1 Level :
Alarm2 Mode Off
Alarm2 Level :
Exit

ALARM1 MODE DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Off
Low
High
Volume
On Flow Error
Alarm Test

Frequency

ALARM SETTINGS DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Alarm1 Mode Frequency
Alarm1 Level :
Alarm2 Mode Off
Alarm2 Level :
Exit

FLOW READING OPTION DD-MM-YY HH:MM:SS

Data review
Zero Cutoff (m/s) : 0.010
Set zero flow (m/s) : 0.000
Damping (secs) : 10
Totaliser : Run
Reset +Total

Reset –Total
Calibration factor : 1.000
Roughness factor : 0.010
Alarm Settings :
Max Pulse Freq (Hz) : 10.00
Flow at Max Frequency : 200.00
Calculated Pulse Value: 2.00
Diagnostics
Exit

to select the ALARM1 MODE menu shown
below:

4. Scroll down to Frequency and press
ENTER.

5. This return to the ALARM SETTINGS menu
which will indicate Frequency on the
Alarm 1 Mode field as shown below.

4: Data Logging & Communications

6. Select Exit to return to the FLOW
READING OPTIONS menu.

7. Scroll down to select Max Pulse Freq.
(Hz) and press ENTER.

8. Enter either 10Hz or 200Hz and press
ENTER.

9. Select Flow at Max Frequency and
press ENTER.

10. Enter the maximum flow rate (in litres per
second) corresponding to 10Hz (or 200Hz)
and press ENTER.

11. Th e Calculated Pulse Value should

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 45
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

indicate a value which must be used by the
Imp value on the Calec. This is a non­editable value.

12. Select Exit and press ENTER to return to
the FLOW READING screen. The message
‘Frequency Pulse is ON’ should now
be displayed on the status line of the
display (line 2).

4: Data Logging & Communications



PkQT 3043.7kW==

Note: ALARM 2 can be used instead of ALARM 1. The procedure is ide ntical excep t that Alarm 2 Mode is
selected and the frequency pulse output is connected to ALARM2+ and ALARM2-.

4.8.4 Configuring the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser

Two parameters need to be entered to allow operation with the U3000/U4000. These are:

Maximum Input Frequency

The Maximum Input Frequency should be the same as that set in the U3000/U4000, i.e. 10Hz or 200Hz.

Volume per pulse (Imp)

The Volume per pulse value should be the same as that indicated in the U3000/U4000 Calculated Pulse

Value.

Both of these values can be entered using the Calec's Inputs menu. Refer to the Calec's User Manual for
further details.

Example

Consider the U3000/U4000 configured as follows for a 114mm stainless steel pipe:

Max Pulse Freq. (Hz) = 200Hz
Flow at max Freq = 20.0 l/s
Calculated Pulse Value = 0.1

The U3000/U4000 reads a mean flow rate of 72.08 m3/h.

1. Select Calec Inputs and program as follows:

F = 200Hz
Imp = 0.1

2. Select Calec Instant then scroll to :

T = 36.78°K

P = 3043.344

Q= 72.023

K = 1.149

The calculated value of P is given by:

This verifies the correct U3000/U4000 with the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser.

46 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

5: Maintenance & Repair

WARNING

This instrument does not contain any user-serviceable parts. The following notes are provided as a guide to
general equipment care

Do not disassemble this unit unless advised by the manufacturer.

Return the unit to an approved service agent or place of purchase

for further advice.

1. Ensure the unit is disconnected from the mains, then wipe the exterior of the instrument with a clean,
damp cloth or paper towel. Do not use a solvent-based cleaning fluid on the instrument as it could
damage the instrument surface.

2. Ensure all cables and connectors are kept clean and free from grease or contaminants. Connectors may
be cleaned with a general purpose cleaner if necessary.

3. Avoid the use of excessive grease/ultrasonic couplant on the sensors as this may impair the
performance of the equipment. Excessive grease/couplant can be removed from the sensors and guide
rails using an absorbent paper towel and a general purpose solvent cleaner.

4. We recommend that the ultrasonic couplant is replaced on the sensors every 6 months, especially on
pipes where the application is too hot to touch. If the signal level drops below 30% this is also an
indication that the sensors need re-greasing.

5. Regularly check all cables/parts for damage. Replacement parts are available from George Fischer.

6. Ensure the person who services your instrument is qualified to do so. If in doubt, return the instrument to
Micronics with a detailed report of the nature of any problem.

7. Take suitable precautions when using any materials to clean the sensors.

8. The instrument and sensors should be calibrated at least once every 12 months. Contact Micronics or
your local service agent for details.

9. When returning product to Micronics make sure it is clean and please notify Micronics if the instrument
has been in contact with any hazardous substances.

10. If the instrument was supplied with dust or dirt caps make sure they are re-fitted when the instrument is
not in use.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 47
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

5: Maintenance & Repair

48 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

6: Troubleshooting

6.1 Overview

If you have a problem with your flow monitoring system it can be due to any of the following:

Faulty instrument

Blank instrument display:

• Loss of power supply to the instrument.

• Internal power supply fuse ruptured.

Scrambled instrument display

• Reboot the instrument by temporarily disconnecting its power supply.

Incorrect setup

A low, or zero, signal could be caused by incorrect set-up such as:

• Incorrect site data entered into the instrument.

• Incorrect or non-matching ultrasonic transducers selected for use.

• Incorrectly fitted transducers – lack of couplant applied, incorrect spacing, insecure attachment.

• Poor connections between the probes and the instrument.

Application problem

If you are certain that the instrument is healthy and suitably set-up for the current site; and the probes are
properly assembled and fitted correctly, there could be an application problem concerned with the site.

Check such conditions such as:

Poor pipe outer surface quality

• Uneven surface preventing good surface contact with the transducer.

• Flaking paint (should be removed).

• Variable air gap in concrete-covered pipes affecting the ultrasonic signal quality.

Poor internal pipe construction

• Rough internal pipe walls affecting fluid flow (see roughness factor).

• Internal welds positioned in the transducer signal path affecting the signal quality.

• The ‘drippings’ in galvanised-dipped pipes or other irregularities interfering with the signal path.

Incorrect probe location

• Transducers located too close to bends or valves, disturbing the flow profile.

• Transducers located too close to insertion probes, disturbing the flow profile.

• For horizontal pipework transducers should not be positioned on the top of the pipe.

Poor fluid conditions within the pipe

• Fluid contains bubbles, high particle density or sludge.

• Air in the top of the pipe.

Low fluid flow within the pipe

• Pipe obstructions.

• Malfunctioning valve not opening fully (or closed inadvertently).

Liquid content problems

• Multiple liquid contents do not comply accurately to expected sound speed criteria.

• Very hot pipe almost turns water to steam and therefore exhibits the wrong speed characteristics –

could be due to reduced pipe pressure.

• Flashover – liquid turns into a gas because of lower than required pressure.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 49
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

6: Troubleshooting

Is the display blank?

Loss of power supply.

Confirm power supply availability.

(note: if using 24V power supply,

the internal fuse should reset

when power is removed)

No

Turn instrument OFF/ON.

If the display is still scrambled/

hung up, return the instrument for

repair.

Yes

Is the display
scrambled or

hung up?

Yes

Measurement differs from expected value.

Unstable measurements. No (or poor) signal.

Problem probably due to non-constant fluid flow.

Check the following:

- the pipe data has been entered correctly.

- the fluid type has been entered correctly.

- the correct transducer type has been selected.

- the pipe diameter is within specifications of the
selected transducers.

- the pipe is completely full.

- the pipe surface is not corroded, or protective
surface loose.

- no particles in the fluid.

Ensure the temperature is set correctly.

Ensure that the transducer cables are connected

correctly.

Ensure transducers are positioned in accordance

with the recommended distance from bends etc.

Ensure flow velocity >0.01m/s.

Ensure that sufficient acoustic couplant has been

applied to the transducers.

If triple reflex mode is selected, try selecting

double or single reflex instead.

No

START

Are any

status messages

shown?

No

Note any active messages.

Refer to the message table in this

chapter to interpret the message

and view suggested r esponse.

Yes

6.2 General Troubleshooting Procedure

Figure 6.1 Troubleshooting chart

50 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

6: Troubleshooting

6.3 Warning and Status Messages

FLOW RATE ERRORS

ERR:No flow signal Interpretation: This message appears when the transducers cannot send or

receive signals to each other.

Response: Firstly check that all cables are connected, transducers are on the

pipe correctly with sufficient couplant on the face. 
This condition could also be due to a partially empty pipe, aerated liquid,
particulate content too high or when the condition of the pipe being measured is
poor.

Flow signal is poor Interpretation: This warning appears when the signal is lower than 25%. 

Response: This could be due to an application problem, a poor quality pipe – see

also the conditions for No flow signal (above). Check for sufficient couplant.

ERR:Zero cut-off! Interpretation: You have entered an out-of-range value in the Zero cutoff

field in the Options menu.

Response: Enter a valid number.

Totaliser beyond maximum! Interpretation: The totaliser has overflowed its maximum count. The counter will

roll-over and restart from zero but this message alerts you to the fact.

Response: Reset the totaliser as described in Paragraph 3.5

PULSE ERRORS

ERR:Pulse output! Interpretation: The flow rate exceeds the capability of the pulse output – i.e. too

many pulses per second are required than can be achieved. 

Response: Narrow the pulse width time or increase the volume per pulse, as

described in Paragraph 3.4.2

ERR:Pulse volume! Interpretation: You have entered an out-of-range value in the Pulse volume

error field in the PULSE OUTPUT menu – see Paragraph 3.4.2

Response: Enter a valid number.

ERR:Pulse width! Interpretation: You have entered an out-of-range value in the Pulse width

error field in the PULSE OUTPUT menu – see Paragraph 3.4.2

Response: Enter a valid number.

.

.

.

.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 51
(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

6: Troubleshooting

4-20mA ERRORS

Calibration 20mA Error! NOTE: The 4-20mA output is calibrated before the instrument leaves the factory

and should not require further adjustment.

Interpretation: You have adjusted the DAC outside its accepted range when

calibrating the 20mA signal output.

Response: Re-calibrate the 4-20mA output – see Paragraph 3.4.1

Calibration 4mA Error! NOTE: The 4-20mA output is calibrated before the instrument leaves the factory

and should not require further adjustment.

Interpretation: You have adjusted the DAC outside its accepted range when

calibrating the 4mA signal output.

Response: Re-calibrate the 4-20mA output – see Paragraph 3.4.1

DATA LOGGING ERRORS (U4000 only)

ERR:Log not empty! Interpretation: When using QuickStart and manually starting a log, this message

is displayed to warn you that a log already exists. The screen will offer the option
to cancel the logging, or save the log to another site.

Response: Attempt to save the existing log, then re-start logging. If logging still

fails to start, and the error message remains, then either all the sites are in use or
all the Logger memory is full. Check for any unwanted log files and delete them.

ERR:Log memory full Interpretation: This occurs when all the data logger memory locations are filled.

The effect on the logging process will depend on the setting of the Memory
rollover field in the REAL TIME LOGGER screen (which may be set to Stop or
Overwrite).

Response: Clear the logger memory, as described in Paragraph 4.2

.

.

..

52 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

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6: Troubleshooting

SET-UP ERRORS

ERR:Pipe OD range! Interpretation: You have entered an out-of-range value for the pipe outside

diameter dimension – i.e. larger or smaller than the unit or sensor can be used on.

Response: Enter a valid number.

ERR:Wall thk. range! Interpretation: You have entered an out-of-range value for the pipe wall

thickness dimension – accepted range is 1mm - 75mm.

Response: Enter a valid number.

ERR:Lining thick. range! Interpretation: You have entered an out-of-range value for the lining thickness

dimension – acceptable range is 0mm - 25mm.

Response: Enter a valid number.

ERR:Temperature range! Interpretation: You have entered an out-of-range value for the fluid

Temperature.
Accepted temperature range -20°C to +200°C.

Response: Enter a valid number.

ERR:Invalid Date or Time! Interpretation: The entered Date or Time is invalid, or when setting up ‘timed’

data logging the Stop time is set earlier than the Start time.

Response: Enter a valid Date and Time.

ERR:Invalid Sensor or
Mode

Mode: Err Type Interpretation: The selected sensors are invalid and the mode cannot be verified.

Interpretation: The selected temperature is higher than the maximum allowed for

the sensor type.

Response: Change the temperature.

Response: Choose a mode that gives a non-zero separation distance.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 53
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6: Troubleshooting

6.4 Diagnostics Display

This feature is designed for advanced users and is intended to provide information that will aid the user to
diagnose problems – e.g. no signal strength.

When operating in the FLOW READING mode you can access a diagnostics screen by pressing the Options
function key and then selecting Diagnostics from the FLOW READING OPTIONS screen. This will display
the operating values for the following parameters.

Calculated time (µs)

This is a value the instrument predicts will be the time in µsecs that it should take for the acoustic wave to
propagate across a particular pipe size. This value is ascertained from the data entered by the user. i.e. Pipe
size, material, sensor set etc.

Actual time (µs)

This is the value the instrument measures as the time taken for the acoustic wave to propagate across the
pipe. It is used to see if the signal is being taken from the burst, at the correct time to get the strongest signal.
This value is normally a few µs below the calculated µs value. If, however, this value is much greater than the
calculated time then there is a problem with the set-up.

Flow (m/s)

This displays flow velocity in m/sec to 3 decimal places.

Signal strength

This is the averaged value of Signal and should be a value between 800 and 1600 – where 800 is
approximately 50%, and 1600 is approximately 100%.

Gain

Gain values are typically in the range 600 to 850.

Switches

Typical Switches values are None and *10. On small pipes (and when using the test block) the value should
be None. A Switch value of *100 indicates poor sensor set-up or poor connections.

UP/DN time difference

The difference in transit times between the upstream and downstream signals due to the fluid flow.

Fluid propagation rate

This is the sound speed of the fluid calculated using the data entered by the user.

Sensor separation

The same value as displayed in the setup screen.

54 U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1)

(Software Ver. 03-08-13)

7: Options

7.1 Options Common to Both the U3000/U4000

The following options are common to both the U3000 and U4000 instruments:

7.1.1 Large pipe diameter transducers

Type ‘D’ transducers are available for use with pipe diameters in the range 1500mm to 5000mm, operating
over the temperature range -20°C to +80°C. The type ‘D’ transducer kit is supplied in a separate case and
includes the sensors together with ratchet straps and guide rails for attaching to the pipe.

7.1.2 Guide rail options

The standard method of securing the guide rail to the pipe is by stainless steel banding.

7.1.3 Extended signal cable options

Normally the U3000/U4000 is supplied with cables of either 5 or 10m in length.

If required, custom signal cables with lengths up to 100m can also be supplied. Consult Micronics Ltd for
further information and availability.

U3000/U4000 User Manual (Issue 5.1) 55
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7: Options

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Appendix A: Specification

GENERAL

DSP Measurement Technique: Transit time.

Timing Resolution: 50 pico-second, continuous signal level indication on display.

Flow Velocity Range: Minimum Velocity 0.1m/s; Max Velocity 10m/s: Bi-directional.

Turn Down Ratio: 200:1

Accuracy: ±0.5% to ±2% of flow reading for flow rate >0.2m/s and Pipe OD >75mm.

±3% of flow reading for flow rate >0.2m/s and Pipe OD in range 13mm - 75mm.
±6% of flow reading for flow rate < 0.2m/s.

Repeatability: ±0.5% of measured value or ±0.02m/s whichever is the greater.

Reynolds Number Correction: Flow velocity corrected for Reynolds number over entire velocity range.

Response Time: < 500ms depending on pipe diameter.

Selectable Flow Units: VELOCITY: m/sec, ft/sec.

Selectable Volume Units: litres, m³, US gallons, gallons, barrels (oil).

Total Volume: 12 Digits - forward and reverse.

VOLUME: l/s, l/min, l/h, gal/s gal/min, gal/h, USgals/s, USgals/min, USgals/h, Barrel/h,
Barrel/day, m³/s, m³/min, m³/h, MGD, MGD(imp).

APPLICABLE FLUID TYPES

Fluid Condition: Clean liquids or oils that have less than 3% by volume of particulate content. Applications

include river water, sea water, potable water, demineralised water, glycol/water mix,
hydraulic systems and diesel oil.

APPLICABLE PIPE TYPES

Pipe Materials: Any sonic conducting medium such as PVDF-SYGEF, PP-PROGEF, PE-ELGEF, 

Pipe Dimension (outside diameter): Min 13mm; Max 5000mm (with ‘D’ sensor set).

Pipe Wall Thickness: 1mm - 75mm.

Pipe Lining: Applicable pipe linings include Rubber, Glass, Concrete, Epoxy, Steel.

Pipe Lining Thickness: 0mm – 25mm.

Pipe Wall Temperature Range: Standard sensor operating temperature is -20°C to +135°C.

PB-INSTAFLEX, ABS, PVC-U/PVC-C, Mild Steel, Ductile Iron, S’less Steel 316, Copper

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TRANSDUCER SETS

Standard: Temperature Range -20°C to +135°C.

'A-ST' (standard) 13 mm…115 mm pipe O.D. 
'B-ST' (standard) 115 mm…2000 mm pipe O.D.
Protection: IP54

Optional: Temperature Range -20°C to +80°C (0.5MHz).

'D' 1500 mm…5000 mm pipe O.D.

DATA LOGGER (U4000 only)

Data Logged: Standard: All measurement parameters and flow reading

Optional: Totalised values

No. data points: Standard: 200k data points (may be affected by totaliser)

Time Stamping: All data points are date & time stamped.

No. Sites: 1 (non-editable) and 1 (editable)

Logging Interval: User programmable 5 secs to 1hr

Operating Modes: Logging stopped when memory full

Logging continues on memory overflow with old date overwritten.

Logged Data Transfer: Logged data can be transferred to PC via RS232 or USB

LANGUAGES

Standard Supported Languages: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Norwegian, Dutch,

Swedish.

OUTPUTS

Serial Interface: RS232 and USB 2.0

Logged Data Can be output to PC or Printer

Current Output:

No. Channels
Format:
Resolution:
Error Currents:
Isolation:
Maximum Load:

Pulse Output TTL:

Number Available:
Isolation:
Pulse Repetition Rate:
Pulse Width:
Max Current:
Max Voltage:

Full Speed (12Mbits/sec) mode, USB software driver provided.

1
4–20mA, 0–20mA, 0–16mA.

0.1% of full scale.
Any between 0–26mA.
1000V Opto-isolated from unit.
620 Ohms.

1 – Opto-isolated MOSFET relay.
1500V opto isolated from unit.
User programmable from 1 to 250 pps.
User programmable from 2ms to 500ms.
500mA.
48V

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Alarms:

Number of Channels Available:
Isolation:
Relay Contact Mode:

Alarm Functions:

Frequency output:
Max Current:
Max Voltage:

2 – opto-isolated MOSFET relay.
1500V opto isolated from unit.
N/O when switching condition is False
Closed when switching condition is True
The two relays can be configured to operate when:

• a predefined MINimum or MAXimum flow rate is exceeded.

• a specified VOLume is measured.

• a signal Error condition occurs

• manual alarm test

• pulse frequency
Maximum 200Hz.
500mA.
48V

ELECTRICAL

Supply Voltage:

Mains Input Voltage: 86V to 264V a.c.

Mains Input Frequency: 47Hz to 63Hz

Power Consumption: 10.5W.

Alternative Input Supply: 24Va.c./d.c. 1A max. (The 24Vac supply must be isolated from Earth.)

MECHANICAL

Enclosure:

Material: ABS and aluminium.

Dimensions: 230mm x 180mm x 120mm

Weight: 1.2kg

Protection: IP65

Fixing: Wall mountable

Keypad:

No. Keys: 15 key tactile feedback membrane keypad

Display:

Format: 240 x 64 pixel graphic display, high contrast black-on-white, with backlight.

Viewing Angle: Min 30°, typically 40°.

Active Area: 127mm (W) x 34mm (H)

Overlay: Standard English, Optional overlays available

ENVIRONMENTAL

Operating Temperature: –20°C to +50°C.

Storage Temperature: –25°C to +65°C.

Operating Humidity: 90% RH MAX at +50°C.

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APPROVALS

Safety: BS EN 61010-1:2001

EMC: BS EN 61326 - 1:2006, BS EN 61326-2-3:2006.

Environmental: BS EN 60068-1:1995, BS EN 60068-2-1:2007, BS EN 60068-2-2:2007

SHIPPING INFORMATION

Box Dimensions: 480mm x 320mm x 150mm.

Weight: 4.5 kg.

Volumetric Weight: 3.8 kg.

Micronics reserve the right to alter any specification without notification.

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CE Declaration of Conformity

Ultraflow U3000 and U4000 Models

Ultrasonic Clamp on Flow Meter

25th January 2010

U3000-U4000 Ultrasonic Flowmeter

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