GPI QME10, QMF05, QME05, QMF10, QME20 Owner's Manual

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Fixed and Portable
Ultrasonic Flowmeter (UFM)

Owner’s Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Key Aspects of QStar UFM..........................................3

Fixed

Approvals/CE...............................................................3

Measuring Principle ..................................................... 3

QStar Fixed UFM and Components ............................ 4

QStar Portable UFM and Components........................ 8

Operating ................................................................... 10

Getting Started .......................................................... 10

Preparing for Measurement ....................................... 13

Measuring with UFM.................................................. 15

Setup Parameters......................................................15

Measuring Windows .................................................. 31

Calibration ................................................................. 44

System Settings.........................................................44

Troubleshooting ......................................................... 46

Software Update ........................................................ 53

Fluid Properties ......................................................... 54

Specications ............................................................ 56

Portable

920222-0105/13

QSTAR FIXED AND PORTABLE UFM OWNER’S MANUAL

Text identied with an exclamation mark contains important information that relates to the basic data

and operation of the device.

Text identied with the letter “i” contain supplementary and helpful information.

i

FIXED UFM

Text contained within this box applies specically

to the QStar FIXED UFM. If you have a PORTABLE

UFM, skip this section and go to the text with no

border, or the text in the PORTABLE UFM box.

FIXED UFM

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

• Transmitter

• Ultrasonic transducers

• Spacer bar for the ultrasonic transducers

(for types F10/F21)

• Stainless steel mounting belts

• Getting Started (“Quick-start”) manual

• USB drive with Owner’s Manual

• Ultrasonic coupling grease

Other ultrasonic transducers for smaller or larger pipe
dimensions, as well as clamp-on temperature sen­sors, are available on separate order. Contact GPI at
www.GPImeters.net or toll-free [phone].

PORTABLE UFM

Text contained within this box applies specically

to the QStar PORTABLE UFM. For a FIXED

UFM, skip this section and go to the text with

no border, or the text in the FIXED UFM box.

PORTABLE UFM

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

• Hard-shell case

• QStar Portable ow transmitter

• Plug-in power adapter, plus IEC appliance power

cable

• Transducer cables

• Ultrasonic transducers

• Spacer bar for the ultrasonic transducers

• Cable for the 4 mA to 20 mA analog output (Mini

DIN, alligator clips)

• Digital output cable for the relay/pulse output

(Mini DIN, alligator clips)

2

TEL: [phone] • 973-940-1684 • FAX: [phone] • www.GPImeters.com

• USB cable

• Stainless steel mounting chains (up to 16 in.)

• Getting Started (“Quick-start”) manual

• USB drive with operating instructions

• Ultrasonic coupling grease

• Measuring tape

Other ultrasonic transducers for smaller
or larger pipe dimensions and clamp-on
temperature sensors, are available
on separate order. Contact GPI
at www.GPImeters.net or
toll-free [phone].

KEY ASPECTS OF QSTAR UFM:

APPROVALS/CE

• Fixed or Portable system for measuring liquids in lled

piping systems.

• Uses the ultrasonic transit-time differential method.

• Heat measurement is included as standard application.

Clamp-on Fixed and Portable temperature sensors
are optional.

• Portable UFM can be operated in battery-powered

mode and on a power adapter for operation with 100%
duty cycle. Fixed UFM can be operated on a power
adapter.

• Supports measurements on piping with diameters

from 1/2" to 240" (depending on the sensor used).

• The uid to measure may have a temperature range

from -40° F to +300° F (depending on the transducer
used).

• You can save the measuring data to the internal

SD card, read the data via USB port and export this
data using Microsoft® ofce software such as Excel
(Portable UFM only).

• The device is equipped with an electrically isolated

relay output and two 4mA to 20mA current outputs
that can be operated in active and passive mode.

QStar UFM is compliant with the following
European Directives and Standards

Test Specications

DIN EN 55011 B (11/2007)

DIN EN 61000-4-2 (09/2008)

DIN EN 61000-4-3 (06/2008)

DIN EN 61000-4-4 (07/2005)

DIN EN 61000-4-5 (06/2007)

DIN EN 61000-4-6 (10/2008)

DIN EN 61000-4-8 (12/2001)

DIN EN 61000-4-11 (02/2005)

Test Requirements

DIN EN 61000-6-1 (10/2007)

DIN EN 61000-6-3 (09/2007)

FIGURE 1: Measuring Principle

ULTRASONIC MEASURING PRINCIPAL

TEL: [phone] • 973-940-1684 • FAX: [phone] • www.GPImeters.com

3

The UFM employs precise, ultrasonic transit-time dif-

cos221

)12(

−

TT

TT

π

4cos221

TT

ferential method. This method involves installation of
two ultrasonic transducers on the surface of the piping
and their interconnection with the electronic evaluation
system. The ultrasonic transducers operate in alternating
mode as transmitter and receiver with cyclic exchange of
ultrasonic signals. Measurements cover the transit times
of the upstream and downstream signals (t1, t2). The UFM
measures the transit-time differential of the ultrasonic
signals t1 and t2 that travel upstream and downstream.
These signals are accelerated (t1) or retarded (t2). The
difference that develops between both signal transit times

is proportional to ow velocity and is used in combination

with the piping geometry data for precise calculation of

the volumetric owrate.

FIXED UFM AND COMPONENTS

=

Lv

α

α

D

2

⋅⋅

⋅⋅

Calculation of ow velocity [m/s]

)12(

TT

−

LQ

=

⋅⋅

Calculation of owrate [m3/s]

The ow transmitter uses a sophisticated cross-correlation

to detect signals. This ensures a reliable detection of

signals even in case of harsh circumstances like gas

and/or particle load.

FIGURE 2: UFM – with Mounted Ultrasonic Transducers (Bottom)
and Flow Transmitters

The UFM consists of the ultrasonic transducers and the

ow transmitter that are mounted onto piping.

FLOW TRANSMITTER

The ow transmitter processes the signals and makes

the measurement results available to the user.

ULTRASONIC TRANSDUCERS

The ultrasonic transducers are mounted onto the pip­ing and transmit and receive the ultrasonic signals

that are used in the ow transmitter to calculate the
volumetric owrate.

Ultrasonic transducers:

QMF-F10 (1 MHz) for pipe diameters 1.25" to 16"
QMF-F21 (2 MHz) for pipe diameters 3/8" to 4"

Operating temperatures: -40° F to 300° F

FIGURE 4: Ultrasonic Transducers (F10/F21) typically
used with Spacer Bar (not shown)

FIGURE 3: Flow Transmitter

4

TEL: [phone] • 973-940-1684 • FAX: [phone] • www.GPImeters.com

Ultrasonic transducer:
QMF-F05 (0.5 MHz) for pipe diameters 8" to 240"
Operating temperatures: -40° F to 180° F

(300° F optional on request)

FIGURE 5: Ultrasonic Transducers (Type F05)

FIXED UFM AND COMPONENTS (Continued)

MOUNTING MATERIAL AND
ACCESSORIES

Signal cables

Signal cables are a part of the ultrasonic transducers
and cannot be separated from transducers.

Spacer bar for transducer mounting

For transducers F10 and F21 (Transducer QMF-F05
is mounted on pipes using textile tape rather than
spacer bar).

FIGURE 6: Spacer bar

Metal Mounting Belt for Transducer
Mounting

FIGURE 7: Mounting Belt (Stainless Steel)

QMF-PT100 Temperature sensors

The clamp-on temperature sensors collect tem­perature data in heating and cooling circuits.
This data is then used to calculate heating and cooling

quantities.

FIGURE 9: Clamp-on temperature sensors, QMF-PT100
(optional)

FIGURE 10: QMF-PT100 (optional) Temperature Sensor
Mounted with Metal Belt

FIGURE 8: Transducers Mounted with Spacer Bar and
Mounting Belts

Coupling grease

Apply the ultrasonic coupling gel between the ultra-

sonic transducer and the piping in order to optimize

signal input.

TEL: [phone] • 973-940-1684 • FAX: [phone] • www.GPImeters.com

Interfaces of UFM

Open the cover to access the connecting terminals.

FIGURE 11: Front view of transmitter showing cover

Cover

Remove
Screws

5

FIXED UFM AND COMPONENTS (Continued)

CONNECTOR BOARD

FIGURE 12: Connecting Terminals

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

+ - - - - - + --

UP1 DN1 UP2 DN2 RS232/ 485

1 RS232/RS485 Interface boards

Digital Interface boards RS232 or RS485 are
available as an option to provide digital com­munication via ASCI strings.

2 Input for temperature sensors

QMF-PT100 (3-wire)

The two temperature sensors (feed and return
pipe) can be connected in order to measure

heat/thermal output. The ow transmitter always

includes the capability for heat/thermal output

measurement. Note that (if required by customer)

the QMF-PT100 inputs can also be used to reset
the counters. If you use this reset function you
cannot measure heat/thermal output at same
time.

WW WW

QMF-

QMF-

PT100

PT100

Relay OUT2 OUT1 DO1 DO2 Reset Power

6 Hardware Reset

Used to reset unit (for hang-ups).

7 Power Supply

Location for connecting the supply voltage. QStar
UFM is available as AC (90-240VAC) and DC
(18-36VDC) version.

Always use the correct voltage for the UFM.
Improper supply voltage might seriously

damage the ow transmitter. Check the type

of power supply on the name plate (printed

on right side of enclosure of ow transmitter.

CAUTION

+ - (DC)

3 Relay output (potential-free)

This output is potential-free NO (normally open)
relay output. Use this output to establish an
alarm (for example, when exceeding a certain

ow speed).

4 Analog output 4-20mA (active)

The 4-20mA outputs can be used to submit

measurement data like ow, thermal output and

velocity to the Programmable Logic Controller
(PLC). These outputs are in active mode (supply

voltage provided internally by ow transmitter).

5 USB- Interface

Used for rmware updates. Standard USB (micro
USB)- cable required to connect to a PC.

6

Wiring

The connection terminals are located under the lower
cover. Remove the two screws and plastic cover to
gain access to the connection terminals.

FIGURE 13: Accessing the Connection Terminals

FIXED UFM AND COMPONENTS (Continued)

.5".015" - .030"

AC TERMINAL BLOCK WIRING

Use cables with 16-26 AWG wires. Wires should
be stripped about .5 in. to allow proper contact

i

to terminals.

Put the stripped end of the related wire into the
related hole. Wires will be held by spring. It might
be helpful to use end sleeves or tin the wire ends.

FIGURE 14: Connection Terminals – Fasten Cables

Use a slotted screwdriver to unfasten wires, then press
middle part between the two holes as shown to loosen
the spring and remove the wires.

FIGURE 15: Connection Terminals - Unfasten Wires

Terminal Diagram

Terminals

UP1

DN1

UP2

DN2

RS485 Optional Interface board

QMF-

PT100

QMF-

PT100

Relay Relay output, external voltage required

OUT1

OUT2

DO1

DO2 Optional, Digital output 2

Designation

Connection of upstream transducer
Red wire to be connected to +

Black wire to be connected to -

Connection of downstream transducer
Red wire to be connected to +

Black wire to be connected to -

Connection of upstream transducer
(path2)
Red wire to be connected to +

Black wire to be connected to -

Connection of downstream transducer
(path2)
Red wire to be connected to +

Black wire to be connected to -

Connect temperature sensors
(measuring colder temperature) to left
QMF-PT100 terminal

WH = White wire from QMF-PT100
RD = Red wire from QMF-PT100

Connect temperature sensors
(measuring warmer temperature) to
right QMF-PT100 terminal

WH = White wire from QMF-PT100
RD = Red wire from QMF-PT100

Analog output1, 4…20mA, active, volt­age provided internally

Analog output2, 4…20mA, active, volt­age provided internally

Digital output (Transistor), passive

mode, external voltage required.

PE NL1

US EUROPE

BLACK

WHITE

GREEN

BROWN

BLUE

GREEN/YELLOW

Power

Supply

Either DC (18-36VDC) or AC (90-

240VAC). Check order conrmation
or name plate on ow transmitter for

operating voltage.

CAUTION

• The 4-20mA outputs are set in active mode.

That means the required voltage is provided

by ow transmitter internally. DO NOT USE

additional external voltage.

• The digital output is set in passive mode and

requires external voltage to be operated.

• Relay is rated to max. 45V, 0.25mA. These

values must not be exceeded.

7

PORTABLE UFM AND COMPONENTS

PORTABLE FLOW TRANSMITTER

Your UFM consists of the ultrasonic transducers and
the ow transmitter that are mounted onto your piping.

The ow transmitter processes the signals and provides

the measurement results.

FIGURE 16: PORTABLE Flow Transmitter (Top) and
Mounted Ultrasonic Transducers (Bottom)

MOUNTING MATERIAL AND
ACCESSORIES

Signal cables

Spacer bar for transducer mounting

For QMP-F10 and QMP-F21 (QMP-F05 is mounted
on pipes using textile tape rather than spacer bar).

FIGURE 17: Spacer bar

Chains for Transducer Mounting

FIGURE 18: Mounting Chain (Stainless Steel)

ULTRASONIC TRANSDUCERS

The ultrasonic transducers mount onto the piping to
transmit and receive the ultrasonic signals used in the

ow transmitter to calculate the volumetric owrate.

Ultrasonic transducer QMP-F21

(2 MHz), RED housing, for pipe

diameters from 0.5 to 4.0 inches.
Operating temperatures: -40° F to
300° F

Ultrasonic transducer QMP-F10

(1 MHz), BLUE housing. Pipe diam­eters: 1.5 to 16 inches. Operating
temperatures: -40° F to 300° F

Ultrasonic transducer QMP-F05

(0.5 MHz), GREEN housing. For

pipe diameters from 8 to 240
inches. Operating temperatures:

-40° F to 176° F (300° F optional

on request)

FIGURE 19: Transducer QMP-F05 (500 kHZ) for large

pipes – Mounting with textile tape.

Coupling grease

Apply the ultrasonic coupling gel between the ultrasonic

transducer and the piping to optimize signal input.

8

PORTABLE UFM AND COMPONENTS (Continued)

78

QMP-PT100 Temperature sensors
(Optional)

The clamp-on temperature sensors collect tem­perature data in heating and cooling circuits.

Use this data to calculate heating and cooling quantities.

FIGURE 20: QMP-PT100 clamp-on temperature sensors

4-20mA analog output cable

FIGURE 21: Back view of Portable UFM connections

1234 56

Reset Down Up Relays/ T1/T2Analog OutUSBPower

Impulse OUT

1 Power Input

This jack is used to connect the plug-in power

adapter that is included with the UFM package.

2 USB Interface (Mini.USB Type B)

Enables access to the integrated SD memory

card from a PC. This card is used to store data
logging information and measurement data (LOG

les). Windows XP or later versions detect the

internal SD Card as mass storage medium. No
need to install additional drivers.

QMP-001

The analog output cables can be used to connect an
external data logger or recorder to the ow transmit­ter for the transmission of measured values such as

owrates, or thermal output.

Cable for Relay/Pulse

The relay connecting cable can be used to trigger

alerts. For example, when exceeding a certain owrate.

Power adapter 100-240V, 47-63Hz, 1A

The power adapter is normally used to charge the

battery. Your UFM supports permanent operation by

using the power adapter.

3 Hardware Reset

Use a small screwdriver (or paper clip) to

press the reset button.

4/5 BNC Inputs for Ultrasonic

Transducers

Jacks for the ultrasonic transducers.

6 Relay/Pulse Output (4-Pol Mini DIN)

Electrically isolated output with NO (normally

open) contact. This internal NO contact is open
unless an actuating signal is generated. Allows
user to assign alarm or threshold limit functions
to this output.

7 Input for Temperature Sensors

QMP-PT100 (6-Pole Mini DIN)

Receptacle for the optional temperature sen-

sors that enable the use of the internal heat
measurement function of the UFM.

8 4-20mA Analog Output

(5-Pol Mini DIN)

These outputs can be assigned variables such

as the owrate and return a current that is

proportional to the value of the variables. The
outputs operate in active (power provided by

ow transmitter) 2-wire mode.

9

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

HOW TO NAVIGATE

• The ow transmitter cannot be operated outside the

temperature range from -4° F to 140° F.

• The ultrasonic transducers are sensitive to mechanical

stress such as impact and vibration. Always safeguard
the transducers against strong vibration or impact to
avoid damage or destruction.

• The plug-in power supply is suitable for in-door use

only.

• The plug-in power adapter or the power cable must

be replaced completely in the case of mechanical or
electrical damage.

• The ow transmitter is not approved for operation in
hazardous locations. The standard ultrasonic trans­ducers are not approved for operation in hazardous

locations.

• The ultrasonic transducers may not be operated
outside their specied uid temperatures.

OPERATING

Use the corresponding multifunctional buttons:

Arrow buttons for
navigation

ENTER

NEXT

BACK

XYZ

Conrms entry

Conrms entries and opens the next window

Returns to the previous window

Increases the value

+

–

Reduces the value

Activates a certain function (depending on
chosen menu)

No function

CONTROL BUTTONS

1. Turns on Portable transmitter. Fixed transmitter will
automatically start when connected to voltage supply.

2. Switches the backlight On and Off.

3. Multifunctional buttons: Use this button to select the
function that is displayed next to it on the screen.

GETTING STARTED

BASIC SETTINGS, MAIN MENU,
NAVIGATION

Setting Language

1. Switch on the device. During the start sequence, press

the multifunctional button that is located next to the

“SETUP” eld.

10

2. Conrm the “SETUP LANG.” button

2. Select “COMPL Setup” when window appears.

3. Use the arrows in the next window to select the dialog

language. Conrm entry with “Enter”. Exit the menu
with “SETUP.”

CAUTION

The language setting selects the language used

in the menus. The language in the elds next to

the multifunctional button remains unchanged.

Navigation in Main Menu “Flow 1”

The “Flow 1” measuring window is automatically opened

with a delay of a few seconds after turning on the power.

The “Flow 1” measuring window provides an overview
of all data that is necessary for ow and optional heat

measurements.

You are now in the main menu. Select all necessary

functions of the device in this menu.

To return to the measuring window, proceed as follows:

Select “ESC” -> “MEAS” in the next window.

To accelerate access to the main menu after

power on, select the start sequence “SETUP.”

i

Select “COMPL SETUP” in the next window.

Setting the Time and Date

After selecting the dialog language, the setup menu opens.

1. Scroll the “System Setup” menu command using the
arrow keys.

1. Select “Setup”

11

2. Select the “Time and Date” menu command

APPLIES TO PORTABLE QSTAR

The status bar is located in the uppermost row of the display.

3. Enter the time as: Hour (hh): Minute (mm): Second (ss).
Enter the date as: Month (mm): Day (dd): Year (yy).

Time

Displays the current time (system time). The time stamp
that is derived from the system time will be applied to
the measurement data.

SD memory

Displays the free space on the internal SD memory
card of the device (standard is 2 GB).

Backup battery

Provides information about the status of the recharge­able battery.

• Load: The device is powered using the power

adapter while the battery is charged. The empty

battery needs a charging time of approximately ve

hours.

• Full: The battery is in a charged state. The device

may be operated for approximately ve hours when
the display backlight is switched off or for approxi-

mately three hours when it is switched on.

Percentage display

Displays the charging state of the battery.

The times specied applies to a new battery. The factual
operating/load cycles may deviate from the specied

time values.

12

PREPARING FOR MEASUREMENT

The following section elaborates on essential aspects that must be taken into account for successful
owrate measurements.

STRAIGHT RUN REQUIREMENTS

The selection of the mounting location has a signicant impact on measurement quality. The
charge and discharge areas listed in the following table should be taken into account.

FIGURE 22: Straight run requirements

13

TRANSDUCER MOUNTING POSITIONS

4cos221

TT

Mounting Ultrasonic Transducers

CAUTION

The pipe must always be lled completely

at the mounting positions of the ultrasonic

transducers. It is not possible to take
measurements on partially lled pipe.

The ultrasonic transducer can be operated in any mount-

ing position. However, conforming with the mounting

positions shown below is mandatory. The drawing shows
the side view of the piping.

Mounting Ultrasonic Transducers On

Horizontal Pipe

FIGURE 23: Preferable mounting positions for ultrasonic
transducers (1)

UFM uses the cross section of the pipe to calculate

the ow. The cross section is calculated from the inner

diameter setup (user setting). If there is sedimentation
in the pipe, which decreases the real inner diameter, a
small amount of uncertainty may result. The same hap-

pens when the inner diameter is not known/estimated.

D

2

πα⋅⋅

)12(

TT

LQ

=

−

⋅⋅

To measure pipes with unknown wall thicknesses
a wall thickness gauge is avaiable from GPI. Ask

i

GPI Customer Service Representative for more
information or visit www.GPImeters.net.

Ultrasonic Transducers On Non-Planar

Surface

Never mount the transducers on non-planar surfaces such
as welding seams or deformations. Always try to remove

thick and uneven protective paint coating from the piping

area where the ultrasonic transducers will be mounted.

On horizontal piping, mount the transducer with an offset
of about +/-45% to the horizontal plane. Otherwise, there
is a risk of the accumulation of bubbles in the upper sec-

tion and sedimentation in the lower section of the pipe.

FIGURE 24: Preferred mounting positions for ultrasonic
transducers (2)

Mounting Ultrasonic Transducers

Following are the options for mounting the ultrasonic trans­ducers. The V-mode is standard for most applications.

V-Mode

FIGURE 25: Mounting of transducers in V-mode

Transducer 1 Transducer 2

In the V-mode, both ultrasonic transducers are mounted
onto the same side of the pipe. This mode is the standard
for small and medium pipe dimensions. The ultrasonic

signals are reected from the pipe wall.

14

W-Mode

Transducer 1

SETUP PARAMETERS

FIGURE 26: Mounting of Transducers in W-Mode

Transducer 1 Transducer 2

The W-mode is a special method for mounting the ultra­sonic transducers. This method is usually employed on
very small pipes.

Z-Mode

FIGURE 27: Mounting of Transducers in Z-Mode

Transducer 2

The Z-mode is a special method for mounting the ul­trasonic transducers. The signal is transmitted across
a shorter distance with this installation method. Use for
measuring large-scale piping systems, or where the sys-

tem is lled with heavily contaminated or gas-loaded uid.

Ths section denes the input of all data that is necessary
for ow measurement.

• “QUICK SETUP”: The Quick Setup guide offers step­by-step instructions on the essential tasks required to

setup parameters.

• “COMPL SETUP”: The complete setup function
enables access to all options and expert settings.

WHAT NEEDS TO BE SETUP

• The pipe’s outer diameter or circumference.

• The wall thickness of the pipe. The material and thick-

ness of the pipe lining, if such lining exists.

• The pipe material

• The uid

• The type of ultrasonic transducers

• The mounting mode for the ultrasonic transducers

Ultrasonic measurement is based on the signal
transit time process. The ultrasonic signals

i

penetrate the piping and the uid. In order to
calculate the signal transit time, each uid, pip-

ing material and existing lining will be assigned a
sonic speed value, as well as the pipe diameter
or circumference value. The tabular database

species the sonic speed values for the materials
and uid. The sonic speed for materials not listed

in the tables must be entered manually. Tables
that list additional sonic speed parameters for

different materials are available in the back of

these operating instructions.

MEASURING WITH UFM

5 Steps to Flow Measurement:

• Select a suitable location for mounting the ultrasonic

transducers

• Setup the UFM pipe parameters

• Mount the ultrasonic transducers onto the piping

• Perform a zero calibration

• Start the ow measurement

15

USING QUICK SETUP

START

Accessing the setup dialog:

After power on: Select “Setup” -> “Quick Setup” within the start sequence.

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select “Setup” -> “Quick “Setup.”

Enter the kinematic viscosity of the uid:

Specify whether to enter

the pipe circumference

or outer diameter.

1

2

Enter the outer diameter

OR

Enter the outside

circumference

i

Use a wall thickness
meter if wall thickness
is unknown, or
consult published
pipe standards.

16

Enter the pipe’s wall thickness

USING QUICK SETUP (CONTINUED)

Choose pipe material

3

OR

4

Does the pipe have a lining YES/NO?

NO

OR5

YES. Enter the thickness of the lining.

Select the database,
or user input if a
material is not listed
in the database.

17

USING QUICK SETUP (CONTINUED)

OR

Choose lining material from

the database.

5

Enter speed of sound of

user-dened coating.

Select the uid:

OR

18

Enter the kinematic
viscosity of the
medium:

USING QUICK SETUP (CONTINUED)

Enter the thermal
capacity of the uid:

Enter the density
of the uid:

6

7

8

END

Select a suitable ultrasonic transducer:

For information on suitable
transducers for specific
pipe dimensions, refer to
section “QStar UFM and
Components.”

Select a suitable mounting mode:

For information on suitable
transducers for specific
pipe dimensions, refer to
section “QStar UFM and
Components.”

Output of the distance between the

ultrasonic transducers:

i

i

The distance between
transducers is specified in

i

inches and always measured
between the faces of
transducers 1 and 2. These
dimensions are not the same
for each mounting mode.

19

MOUNTING DISTANCE

Distance

V-mode and W-mode

The distance between the ultrasonic transducers is always
measured between their opposing surfaces in all mounting
modes. After setting up the measuring point, the ow trans­mitter displays the distances that have to be set up using a
measuring tape. When using a spacer bar in the V-mode,
position the transducers conveniently using the spacer bar.

APPLIES TO FIXED UFM

FIGURE 29: V-Mode or W-Mode with Spacer Bar

FIGURE 28: Mounting of ultrasonic transducers V-mode

Mounting

Distance

Ultrasonic Transducer

V

t

1

FIGURE 31: Mounting of ultrasonic transducers (Z-mode)

t

2

FIGURE 30: V-Mode Mount with Fabric-Reinforced
Tensioning Tapes for Large Pipe Diameters

Installation at Z-Mode

Transducer 1

Transducer 2

FIGURE 32: Mounting of ultrasonic transducers in Z-mode

using mounting belts

20

APPLIES TO FIXED UFM

Grease coupling

U

ltrasonic Transducer

Cable

Sheath

FIGURE 33: Z-mode installation with fabric-reinforced
tensioning tapes for large pipe diameters

ULTRASONIC TRANSDUCER
MOUNTING

The ultrasonic transducer (F10 and F21) is made of
plastic (PEEK) that has a beige color and is protected
by means of a metal sheath. The sheath has two
threaded bars on top that prepares the transducer for
use of spacer bar.

The ultrasonic transducer type F05 consists only of the
sensor sheath and the ultrasonic transducer.

FIGURE 34: View of the back side of the transducer.

Some coupling grease (approximately the size of a

peanut) has to be applied where the part touches the
pipe wall after installation.

FIGURE 35: Lower side of ultrasonic transducer (touching
pipe wall)

before mounting

Mounting in V-mode or W-mode

After setting up the parameters of the measuring point,

the ow transmitter displays the distance between

the transducers in inches (face-to-face, see Figure

36) and as number of grid holes for use of the spacer

bar (ultrasonic transducers type F10 and F21). Bar
index number 4, for example, shows three free grid
holes between the ultrasonic transducers. Install the

transducers on the spacer bar as shown in the gure.

Secure the transducers on the spacer bar using the

knurled screws .

FIGURE 36: Using spacer bar – bar index holes

numbering, Example number of holes = 4

21

APPLIES TO FIXED UFM

Fix Transducers on Pipe
Using Mounting Belts

The transducers are mounted by using the metal ten­sion belts. The length of the belts are related to the

maximum pipe size of the corresponding transducer (for
example, when using –F10 (1 1/4" to 16") size of belt

is suited for max. 16"). If using the same transducer for
smaller pipes, shorten the belts. The belts are fastened
by a tightener (Figure 37) which can be tightened by
using a screwdriver (Figure 38).

FIGURE 37: Tightener for Metal Tension Belts

FIGURE 38: Tighten metal belts with screwdriver

Z-mode Mounting of Ultrasonic

APPLIES TO PORTABLE UFM

FIGURE 39: V-mode or W-mode without spacer bar

FIGURE 40: V-mode or W-mode with spacer bar

FIGURE 41: V-Mode Mount with Fabric-Reinforced

Tensioning Tapes for Large Pipe Diameters

22

APPLIES TO PORTABLE UFM

Distance

Z-Mode Installation

FIGURE 42: Z-mode mounting of ultrasonic transducers

Transducer 1

Transducer 2

FIGURE 43: Z-mode mounting of ultrasonic transducers

using mounting chains

ULTRASONIC TRANSDUCER
MOUNTING

Basic structure of the ultrasonic transducer:

The ultrasonic transducer (F10 and F21) is made of
plastic (PEEK) that has a beige color and is protected
by means of a metal sheath. The transducer is secured

by means of a knurled screw that is passed through the

transducer support. This support can be shifted in axial

direction (arrow) with the help of the knurled screw (A).

The ultrasonic transducer type F05 consists only of the
sensor sheath and the actual ultrasonic transducer.

Sheath

Ultrasonic Transducer

Layout of ultrasonic transducer

FIGURE 44: Z-mode installation with fabric-reinforced

tensioning tapes for large pipe diameters

Knurled screw (A)

Transducer face

Transducer support

Before mounting the ultrasonic transducer onto the
piping, the beige transducer surface must be brought
into the position underneath the bottom edge of the
transducer support (screw transducer into support).

Apply acoustic gel on the
sensing face of the ultrasonic
transducer.

23

APPLIES TO PORTABLE UFM

MountingDistance

Mounting in V-mode or W-mode

After setting up the parameters of the measuring point,

the ow transmitter displays the distance between the

transducers in inches (Figure 45) and as number of grid
holes for use of the spacer bar (ultrasonic transducers
type F10 and F21). Bar index number 5, for example,

is equivalent to the number of grid holes between the

ultrasonic transducers, plus the position at which the

knurled screw of the opposing transducer has to be

mounted. Install the transducers on the spacer bar as

shown in the gure. Secure the transducers on the
spacer bar using the knurled screws (B).

FIGURE 45: Positioning the ultrasonic transducers by
means of spacer bar index

Transducers

The mounting of transducers in Z-Mode might be use­ful for bigger pipes and/or applications with low signals

strengths (high particle/gas load). When using Z-mode,

the spacer bar cannot be used since the two transduc­ers are located on the opposite sides of the pipe. The

distance between the transducers (“mounting distance”)
depends on application (mainly pipe size). In Figure 47

the principle is illustrated. The following sections show
how to place the transducers correctly.

FIGURE 47: Transducers mounted in Z-Mode

Bar index number 5 example

Fix Transducers on Pipe
Using Mounting Chains

FIGURE 46: Secure the ultrasonic transducers (types F10

and F21) by means of stainless steel tensioning chain.

Fix the ultrasonic transducers using the stainless steel
chains (with or without spacer bar).

Attach the chains to the hooks on the transducers while
keeping them under slight tension. Attach the ultrasonic
transducers to the pipe by adjusting the knurled screw

(A) until the transducer is pressed slightly onto the pipe.

Use a plastic or paper template (not supplied) to mark
the mounting positions. The example shows how to mark

the positions using a plastic template.

1. Wrap the plastic template once around the pipe at the

mounting position of the rst ultrasonic transducer

(transducers face has to be in line with the line to be
drawn).

2. Using a felt tip pen, draw a line on the pipe along the
template (corresponds with the pipe circumference)

24

TEL: [phone] • 973-940-1684 • FAX: [phone] • www.GPImeters.com

FIGURES 48 AND 49: Attaching Plastic Template

Draw Line

FIGURE 51: Measure Required Distance (Given by Flow

Transmitter)

FIGURE 52: Set Up the Template to Mark the Mounting

Position of the Second Transducer

FIGURE 50: Pipe with First Mounting Line for First
Transducer

3. After setting up parameters,the UFM displays the axial
distance between the ultrasonic transducers (trans­ducer distance) is displayed. Measure the transducer
distance based on the value displayed on the UFM,

starting from the rst line drawn to the position at which

the second line is to be drawn (mounting position for
face of the second transducer).

4. Draw two cross hairs on the same axis, centered on
the lines drawn with the help of the template.

FIGURE 53: Auxiliary marks

2

1

5. Mount the rst transducer. Its face is positioned on the
axis of the rst line drawn. The transducer face (not
the transducer) is centered onto the rst cross hair.
Now calculate half of the pipe’s outer circumference.

25

r = Radius of pipe including wall thickness

(“outer radius”)

Example: Radius (outer) = 250mm -> U =

2*3.1415*250mm/2 = 785.4mm

6. Position the zero line of the measuring tape onto the

center of the second cross hair drawn on the pipe (at

same level as rst transducer). Measure the previously
calculated distance (half circumference). You should

now have located the precise position opposite to the

rst transducer. Draw a third line at this position.

FIGURE 54: Determining the Mounting Position for
Transducer

EDIT PARAMETERS

Edit system parameters using the complete setup menu.

However, this method is less convenient, as it does not

offer a step-by-step guide to setting up the parameters. It
is therefore recommended to use the main menu only in

situations that require editing of an individual parameter.

Editing the parameters includes access to piping, uid

and dialogs for selecting the ultrasonic transducer and
mounting mode.

If you only want to change the mounting mode from V to

Z, simply select “Transducer parameters” and change it
without having to run a complete “Quick Setup” session.

This document provides only a brief overview of how
to setup the parameters and main menu in the form of
structure diagrams that help identify the functions grouped
in the respective menu.

7. Mount the second transducer. Its face is positioned

on the axis of the second line drawn. The transducer
face is centered onto the third cross hair. The trans­ducers are now mounted precisely opposite to each

other and are prepared for measuring in Z-mode.

FIGURE 55: Right Mounting of Transducers in Z-mode

Navigate to the main menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select “Setup”

-> “CMPL. SETUP”

Select the parameters to edit, for example, “Pipe Setup,”
“Fluid Setup,” or “Transducer Setup.”

26

Direct access to the pipe parameters:

PIPE SETUP

Outer Diameter Outer Circumference

OR

Enter outer diameter Enter outer circumference

Enter wall thickness

Pipe material

from database

Select from database:
1 Steel
2 Stainless steel...

OR

Does pipe have internal coating?

User-dened pipe material

Enter speed of sound

of your pipe material

YES NO

Enter thickness

of coating

Choose from

database

Select:
1 Rubber
2 ...

Material of coating

OR

OR

Enter

customized

coating

Enter speed of

sound of your

coating

END

27

Setup Fluid Data

FLUID SETUP

Choose from database Set user-dened uid

OR

Enter outer diameter Enter outer circumference

Select from database:
1 Water 20 Degrees
2 ...

END

Enter speed of sound

of user-dened uid

Enter kinematic viscosity

Enter heat capacity

Enter density

Direct access to selection of ultrasonic transducer and mounting mode:

TRANSDUCER SETUP

Choose transducer

Choose mounting mode

END

28

ZERO SETTING

Zero Calibration Using the Main Menu:

It is advisable to run a zero calibration before starting

measurements, if possible.

CAUTION

Prerequisite for error-free zero calibration is the
complete setup of the device, proper installation of
both ultrasonic transducers on the pipe, and their
electrical interconnection with the ow transmitter.
Zero-ow is required for error free calibration. Wait

two minutes after stopping process/shut-off pipe

to allow the ow to calm down.

Zero Calibration Starting in “Flow 1” Menu

1. Close the valves of the piping.

2. Navigate to the “Setup” window as follows, using one

of three options:

3. After power-on: Select “Setup” within the start se­quence

4. In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select
“Setup” and “Zero Setup”

5. Select “Set Zero”

In the main menu, select “damping/cutOff/Zero” -> “Zero
calibration”

• Stop ow of uid (close a valve)

• Choose Set Zero

Deleting the zero value

In the main menu, select “Zero Setup” - “Zero” - “Delete
zero”. This action deletes the zero calibration and resets

the meter to factory settings.

CAUTION

Once the zero offset has been set, it will remain in
the system until it is deleted or a new zero offset
has been set. We recommend to make new zero

setting at each new measurement when possible.

The following window opens on completion of zero

calibration:

The UFM displays the calculated correction value for

the signal transit-time on completion of zero calibration.

In the course of zero calibration with closed

pipe valves, the UFM calculates the transit-time

i

differential that may develop between the trans-

ducers and any residual ow. This calculated
time (including zero) is automatically included for subse­quent calculations during ow measurement. This method
enhances the precision of the ow measurements. If it is
not possible to close the pipe valves, delete the zero value

that may have been set previously. If anything prevents

performing a zero calibration, take the corresponding

imperfection into account in your measurements. The

zero setpoint is retained in device memory until it is
overwritten with a new zero setpoint. If it was possible
to close the pipe valves, check the “Flow” column in one

of the three measuring windows to determine whether

or not the owrate is going down. Do not perform a zero
calibration until a settled value is output to the ow display.

A stop valve is not available at all positions of the piping.
The tolerances that develop during installation, including
tolerances of the ultrasonic transducers and pipe data,

will lead to a certain zero offset error in the measuring
equipment. Provided care was taken during installation,
the ow velocity error should stay within the range from

0.00 ft./s to 0.09 ft./s. The zero offset error is reduced in
proportion with increasing pipe size.

29

HEAT MEASUREMENT

The integrated heat measurement function enables you

to determine the heat and cooling ow in your application

using QMF-PT100 or QMP-PT100 temperature sensors.

Introduction

The temperature sensor no.1 is installed in the warmer
section, while temperature sensor no. 2 is installed in
the cooler section of the circuit (The QMF-PT100 are

numbered on the cable). You can position the ultrasonic

transducers at the warmer or cooler section. GPI recom­mends installing the transducers in the cooler section,

as it is unlikely that they will be operated beyond their

permissible temperature limit in these sections.

QStar UFM displays the thermal output and the accu-

mulated heat quantity.

INSTALLING THE TEMPERATURE
SENSOR

Temperature sensors can be mounted on piping using
a metal belt (photo) or fabric-reinforced tape. Install the
temperture sensor on the pipe as follows.

FIGURE 57: Mounted Temperature Sensor

FIGURE 56: Block Diagram of Heat Measurement

Thermal Output
/ Heat quantity

Volume Flow /

Ultrasonic
Transducers

Quantity

Consumed
Thermal Output /
Heat quantity

Thermal Input /
Heat Quantity

Feed temperature

Temperature
Sensor T1

Return
temperatur

Temperature
Sensor T2

e

Q Flow Rate

QStar UFM shows heat (kWh) and thermal output (kW)

Calculating Thermal Output

The measuring method used is a relative
measurement. This means that the measured

i

temperature values with absolute reference may
deviate from this measuring equipment (for ex­ample, compared to submersion thermometers).
It is important to set up a relation between both
sensors. The ideal differential temperature be­tween the temperature sensors should amount

to zero degrees prior to installation on the piping.

Zero Setup of Temperature Sensors

From main menu “Flow 1”: Press button SETUP ->
COMPL SETUP -> à CALIBRATION SETUP -> Select

“QMF-PT100 T2-T1”

The cross-sectional area of the pipe’s inner diameter [A]
is multiplied by the ow velocity [v] and specic thermal
capacity of the medium [c], as well as the differential
temperature of both sensors, [T_hot- T_cold]. The product
denes thermal output [Q] in W units.

Calculating heat (quantity)

The heat quantity is derived as a function of thermal

output over time.

30

The differential temperature between both
temperature sensors should amount to approxi-

i

mately zero degrees prior to installation of the

transducers on the piping. Avoid touching the

transducers in the preliminary phases. To equal

both temperature sensors put them in a glass

of water for a couple of minutes. To check the

temperature of both sensors, use the values
displayed in the “Heat quantity” measuring win­dow that is described in the following section.

Select “READ OFFSET”. QStar UFM automatically

calculates the T2 to T1 offset. On completion of this
calculation, the differential temperature T1 to T2 should

amount to approximately zero degrees. Use the “Reset
Offset” command to reset the calculated differential
temperature to zero.

Absolute thermal output measurements
(absolute measurement)

Same procedure is applicable for second temperature
sensor. In this case please choose PT100 T2 in calibra­tion menu.

MEASURING WINDOWS

THE MAIN DISPLAY “FLOW 1”

The device supports the alignment of the displayed
temperature with a reference thermometer for each tem­perature sensor used. This functionality can be useful,
for example, for heat measurements.

Example: The resistance thermometer installed in
the pipe displays 348° F. However, the tempera-

i

ture sensors of your QStar UFM displays only 343°
F. QStar UFM also supports manual adjustment of
the offset. In this case, specify a setpoint of 348° F.
The setpoint is an absolute value and not an offset.

Proceed as follows:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” -> CALIBRATION SETUP

-> “PT100 T1”

The “Flow 1” menu is the main menu that shows the
current measured values like ow and thermal output.

Opening the central measuring window “Flow 1”

After power on: Wait approximately ve seconds for the

display of the start screen. The QStar UFM automatically

opens the central measuring window “Flow 1”.

Starting in the main menu: Select “ESC” > “MEAS.”

The “Flow 1” measuring window provides concise infor­mation that is important for ow and heat.

DATA IN MAIN MENU “FLOW 1”

PARAMETER DESIGNATION

Enter the absolute setpoint for T1. Caution: The setpoint
is an absolute value and not an offset in terms of the tem-

perature displayed. You can select “RESET” to delete the

setpoint for the PT100 T1. In this case the temperature
sensor will indicate the actual temperature.

Displays the current owrate

Totalizer = owrate counter. Dis­plays the actual owrate value.

Displays the actual thermal output

Displays the actual heat quantity

Returns the sonic speed of the

uid

31

DATA IN MAIN MENU “FLOW 1”

PARAMETER DESIGNATION

Species the signal quality in [%]

Outputs the actual temperature
of the connected QMF-PT100
temperature sensors. Signals the
measurement status

Indicates the status of the
measurement

Indicates deactivated data logging

Indicates ongoing data logging

Indicates USB-connection to PC

RESET

Resets the Totalizer (owrate counter) to zero

TOT

MEASURING WINDOW “HEAT”

Starting in the primary measuring window “Flow 1: Select
‘Flow 2’ -> Heat”

The “Heat” measuring window outputs concise informa-

tion that is important for heat measurements.

Change to the diagnostics windows. Only neces-

DIAG

sary for information or if you do not receive any
measurement results

Change to measuring window “Flow 2” providing

FLOW 2

further information

Change to oscilloscope menu to watch signals

OSC

MEASURING WINDOW “FLOW 2”

How to open the central measuring window “Flow 2.”

Starting in the primary measuring window “Flow 1”:
Select “Flow 2.”

Flow measuring window 2 provides concise information

that is important for ow measurements (without heat

measurement). The window also provides additional

ow velocity data.

DATA IN MENU “HEAT”

PARAMETER DESIGNATION

Displays the actual thermal output.

Displays the actual heat quantity.

Displays the differential temperature
between the connected PT100 T1
and PT100 T2 temperature sensors.

FLOW 2

Change to measuring window “Flow 2.”

SELECTING THE PHYSICAL UNITS

How to access the “Units Setup” menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” -> Navigate to “Units Setup”

in the main menu.

Select the variable to change the physical unit:

ADDITIONAL CONTENT OF MENU “FLOW 2”

FUNCTION DESIGNATION

Displays the actual ow

velocity

FLOW 1

Change to the primary measuring window”
“Flow 1”.

HEAT

Change to measuring window “Heat”

32

SELECTING THE FLOW UNIT

To access the physical unit from submenu “Flow 1”

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” -> Navigate to “Units Setup”
in the main menu and then select “Flow.”

Select the parameter to change the unit:

SELECTING THE PHYSICAL UNIT
FOR THERMAL OUTPUT

To access the physical unit submenu “Thermal
output”

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” ->”CMPL SETUP”. In the main menu, select
“Units Setup”-> “Power.”

Select the physical unit:

SELECTING THE PHYSICAL UNIT
FOR HEAT QUANTITY

Now select the desired unit.

SELECTING THE PHYSICAL UNIT
FOR THE TOTALIZER

To access the physical unit submenu “Totalizer”

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” -> Navigate to “Units Setup”
in the main menu and then select “Total Flow”

Select the physical unit:

To access the physical unit submenu “Heat quantity”

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” — In the main menu, select
“Units Setup” -> “Heat.”

Select the physical unit:

33

APPLIES TO FIXED QSTAR UFM

SETUP THE I/O

To access the I/O setup menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select
“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP”. In the “complete setup”
menu, select “I/O Setup.”

SETUP THE 4 mA TO 20 mA
CURRENT OUTPUTS

CAUTION

Any connection of an active 4 mA to 20
mA analog output of QStar UFM with an
external device that also provides a voltage
at its inputs will cause fatal damage to your
QStar UFM and external device. Before you

interconnect both devices, always verify that

your external recording (PCS) system is set
to passive state.

The outputs of QStar UFM are working in active mode
in factory state. That means that the ow transmitter
provides the required voltage to run the outputs.

Output passive

Passive 1

QStar UFM 24VDC

Passive 2

QStar UFM 24VDC

The mode (passive or active) of the outputs can be
changed inside the QStar UFM. Always use the factory
setting (active mode). If you need to change the mode,
contact your GPI Customer Service Representative.

To access the “Analog output” menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP”. In the main menu, select

-> “I/O Setup” -> Analog outputs”.

The inputs of the external device are connected directly
to QStar UFM.

Outputs are activated (factory setting)

Active 1:

QStar UFM 24VDC

34

Select the analog output to be used:

APPLIES TO FIXED QSTAR UFM (Continued)

Specify the variable to be output at the analog output:

Select the value to be assigned to the 4 mA output
(Example Flow).

SETUP RELAY PARAMETERS

QStar UFM is equipped with a relay output.

This output can be assigned a function or a range.

Example of an external circuitry:

CAUTION

The relay has a NO (normally open) contact.

The contact is only closed when triggered by
a setup parameter function. The contact will

retain its open state on power failure. You do

not have to observe the polarity of the wiring
since it is potential free.

Select the value to be assigned to the 20mA output.

The analog outputs only support unidirectional ow.

QStar UFM can only provide positive ows to the
outputs. The ow display must return positive

i

values. What happens if the value exceeds the

setup high or low limits? Example: You expect
a owrate of 100m3/h and assigned this rate
a value of 20 mA. However, the owrate may

reach 130 m³/h. This means that a value of 20

mA will also be output for owrates higher than

100 m3/h.

To access the “Relay” menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP”. In the main menu, select

-> “I/O Setup” -> “Relay:

Choose value (lower limit) for activation of relay. Relay
will be activated when measured value fall below the
limit.

35

APPLIES TO FIXED QSTAR UFM (Continued)

In addition to setup variables such as ow,

QStar UFM applies the corresponding unit

i

that is selected in the “Units Setup” setting

and appended to the respective variable that
is displayed in a measuring window. Example:

If you selected the physical unit m³ for ow

variables, the values of the switching points
are also the parameters set in cubic meter.

Select the upper limit value for the relay. Relay will be
activated when measured value exceeds the maximum
limit.

Example: A pump is operated in an applica­tion and the discharge volume of this pump

i

is measured. The pump has a maximum
discharge volume of 6000 m3 /h and there is
a risk of damage to the pump when the dis­charge volume drops to less than 150 m3/h.
The objective is for QStar UFM to shut down
the pump as soon as the value drops below
a point at which damage to the pump can be
expected. So in that case lower limit has to be
set to 150m3/h, upper limit to 6000m3/h. Relay

will be activated if ow falls below 150m3/h or

exceeds 6000m3/h.

Connecting Digital Output

Example 1:

Connect the plus terminal of evaluation unit (for ex­ample, PCS) to the plus terminal of voltage supply.
Connect the negative terminal of evaluation unit to
the plus terminal of the DO. The negative terminal of
the DO has to be connected to the negative terminal
of external voltage supply.

QStar UFM

Example 2:

Connect a PNP transistor’s emitter to the positive

terminal of the external voltage supply. The basis of
the transistor should be connected (via a resistance)
to the positive terminal of the DO. The collector of the
transistor should be connected to the positive terminal
of evaluating unit (PCS). The negative terminal of the
evaluating unit has to be connected to the negative
terminals of the DO and the voltage supply.

QStar UFM

The physical unit cubic meter must have been

assigned to the ow variables in the physical

unit settings. The minimum activation point
must have the parameters setup.

Setup the Digital Output (transistor)

QStar UFM provides one digital output (DO). The DO
is a transistor output (open collector) and is typically

used as a counter for volume (m3) or heat (kWh). The

DO is operated in passive mode. That means a supply
voltage (10…30VDC) has to be provided externally.

CAUTION

Be careful not to confuse the positive (+) and
negative (-) voltage in order to avoid damage

to the ow transmitter.

36

To enter the menu for Digital outputs:

Starting from main menu “Flow 1”: Choose SETUP

-> COMPL SETUP -> I/O SETUP -> Digital Output.

APPLIES TO FIXED QSTAR UFM (Continued)

Choose related data (heat or volume) to use with DO.

Choose the value (totalizer or heat) that represents

one pulse.

Example: To get a pulse at the DO each 10m3 enter 10
here. Units can be changed in units setup.

UPGRADE QSTAR UFM

Disconnect transmitter from power supply. Plug the
RS232 board (QMF-RS232) into the two plugs in the
region of the connection terminals (see QStar UFM and

Components: Interfaces of QStar UFM” to access

the connection terminals).

RS232 Board (QMF-RS232)

Now reconnect the power supply.

The unit in the digital output menu (for example,
m3) is related to the chosen unit of the counter

i

(totalizer). Example: Choosing unit l (litres)
for the totalizer in the units setup menu also

provides litres in the DO.

Choosing kWh as unit of the totalizer when

using it for heat measurement also provides

kWh in the DO.

SETUP THE SERIAL INTERFACE
RS232

Using a separate RS232 interface board is an option.
QStar UFM upgrades by simply plugging in the separate
RS232 board. The RS232 sends ASCI strings including
measurement data.

CONNECT RS232 BOARD TO A
RECEIVER (PC OR PCS)

Requires a cable to be connected at the RS232 board

and –typically- to a SubD (others possible due to cus­tomers demands).

RS232 Interface board

TAG Designation

TX Transmit Data 3

Pin 9 Pol. Sub

D

RX Receive Data 2

GND Ground 5

37

APPLIES TO FIXED QSTAR UFM (Continued)

Pin assignment of standard Sub-D 9 pols

ACTIVATE THE RS232 INTERFACE

To activate the RS232 go to menu “Flow 1”

From main menu “Flow 1”: Choose SETUP -> COMPL

SETUP -> SERIAL INTERFACE (6)

To activate RS232 interface press YES

CONFIGURE RECEIVER
(for example, PC) TO RECEIVE

RS232 DATA

Choose interface where the RS232 is connected (for
example, COM4).

Congure input according to Figure 58. Note: Bit rate
cannot be changed (115200 bits/sec).

FIGURE 58: Congure Input for RS232 Communication

Then choose some parameters:

Start Date: Set date where RS232 communication
should start.

Start Time: Set time where RS232 communication
should start.

Duration: Set duration of RS232 communication.

Interval: Set interval (for example, 5 means that a data

package is sent each ve seconds).

After successful conguration you should receive data

as shown in Figure 59.

FIGURE 59: Receiving Data via RS232 Interface

To receive data use the Hyper Terminal provided

by Windows. If serial interface is not available

i

on the PC, use standard RS232 (Sub D-9) to
USB converter.

If you do not set a start time and date the
communication starts immediately after setting

i

duration and interval.

38

APPLIES TO PORTABLE QSTAR UFM

SAVE, LOAD AND MANAGE DATA

Logging Data

The term data logging denotes the recording (saving)
of measured value data on the internal SD Memory

Card. All measurement data like time and date, ow,
velocity, totalizer and thermal output, heat quantity and

temperatures (when using temperature sensors). If
temperature sensors should not be in use these values

are shown as “0” in the log les. The data is stored in a
text le (*.txt) which allows easy and quick export into
ofce software like Microsoft® Excel or similar.

Time-Controlled Data Logging

Your UFM supports time controlled data logging to the

internal SD memory card.

The time controlled data logging uses the in-

ternal system time which is set by user. Make

i

sure the system time is correct.

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” -> “Data logger”

Navigate to the Data logger parameters eld and con­rm your entry with “NEXT”. Assign a le name (min.
4 characters). Use the arrow keys to select the letters,
or delete a letter by means of “DEL”. Accept the letter
with “ENTER”. Select “DONE” and press “ENTER” to

conclude data input

• Enter the start date May 25, 20YY

• Enter the start time 3:00 PM

• Enter the duration in 001:01:00:00 format

• Enter the interval in 00:00:60 format

The data logger does not average values

over the cycling period. The current values

i

are always stored. If you choose interval of 10

seconds the current values each 10 seconds

are stored (not the average over last 10 sec).

To delete or to rename existing log les please con­nect your UFM to your PC using the USB cable. Then

access the log les directly at the SD card.

Message “LOG ACTIVE” is being shown at the display

while data logging is going on. If there is no data log-

ging display shows “LOG INACTIVE.”

Continuous Data Logging:

Example: You want to log the data generated from
May 25, 20YY, 3:00 PM to May 26, 20YY, 4:00 PM.

The data is logged at cyclic intervals of 60 seconds to
the SD Card.

Start 15:00 Stop 16:00

25.05.20YY 26.05.20YY

27.05.20YY

39

APPLIES TO PORTABLE QSTAR UFM (Continued)

Cancel active data logging

If you want to quit an ongoing data logging before the
dened stop time please go to main window “Flow”:
Choose “SETUP” -> COMPL SETUP -> DATA LOGGER

The following window appears:

To cancel data logging press YES. The stored data will

be still available on the SD card.

Save/load/edit parameters

The primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select
“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” -> “Save/load parameters”.

Your UFM provides functions for saving and loading
the parameter data. This saves time if you are taking

measurements at different locations.

To save the parameters, use the arrow keys to select
the memory space and conrm your entry with “NEXT“:

Select “SAVE” to save the parameter data.

Select “LOAD” to load a parameter set from memory.
Select “RENAME” to rename the stored le. Select
Delete to delete the choosen parameter le.

Use the button to scroll through the details of the

stored parameter le.

The parameter les are stored into an internal

data logger and not in the SD card. The SD

i

card is reserved for data log les only. If you
perform software reset stored parameter les

will be deleted.

READING DATA ON THE COMPUTER

Connect via USB port to a computer using the USB cable

supplied by GPI. Your UFM is automatically detected
as mass storage medium (like a USB drive). Compat-

ible operating systems include: XP, WIN2000, Vista,

Windows 7, or MAC OS X.x. Your UFM is equipped

with a USB 2.0 interface.

When succesfully connected to a PC display will show

message USB ON in the main menu “Flow 1”.

Your current data setup is displayed:

Enter a le name. Use the arrow keys to select the let­ters, or delete a letter by means of “DEL”. Accept the
letter with “ENTER”. Select “DONE” and press “ENTER”

to exit data input.

40

FIGURE 60: Display when connected to a PC

QStar`s SD card will be detected from Windows/Linux
and can be accessed in order to rename/delete or

copy les.

APPLIES TO PORTABLE QSTAR UFM (Continued)

Exporting data in Microsoft® Excel

Data logs are saved to a le with *.txt extension on the

SD Card. The data can be imported directly to a standard
data processing software such as Microsoft® Excel.

Copy the desired le to your PC. This guide shows
basics of exporting the les into Microsoft
course working with the data logs is not restricted to

Excel and is possible with comparable software.

Free ofce software similar to Microsoft® Ofce
can be found at www.openofce.org.

i

The log le will look like this: Each line represents the

data from one measuring point. The different values
are separated by semicolon.

FIGURE 61: Log le opened by text editor

®

Excel. Of

SETUP THE 4 mA TO 20 mA
CURRENT OUTPUTS

QStar UFM provides two 4 mA to 20 mA current outputs.
These outputs can be assigned different measured
values. The outputs are set actively by default. This
means that your QStar UFM always provides a voltage
at these outputs.

CAUTION

Any connection of an active 4 mA to 20 mA analog
output of QStar UFM with an external device that
also provides a voltage at its inputs will cause
fatal damage to your QStar UFM and external

device. Before you interconnect both devices,

always verify that your external recording (PCS)
system is set to passive state.

FIGURE 62: Data imported into Microsoft® Excel

SETTING THE PARAMETERS

How to access the I/O setup menu

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select
“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP.” In the “complete setup”
menu, select “I/O Setup.”

The outputs of your UFM are working in active mode
in factory state. That means that the ow transmitter
provides the required voltage to run the outputs.

The inputs of the external device are connected directly
to your UFM.

Outputs are activated (factory setting).

Activ 1:

QStar UFM 24VDC

41

APPLIES TO PORTABLE QSTAR UFM (Continued)

Current output 1 (I1A/B): Current ow is directed

from I1B to I1A.

Current output 2 (I2A/B): Direction of the current ow

is directed from I2B to I2A

Select the value to be assigned to the 20mA output.
The analog outputs at your UFM only support unidi-

rectional ow.

How to access the “Analog output” menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select
“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP”. In the main menu, select

-> “I/O Setup” -> Analog outputs.

Select the analog output to be used:

Specify the variable to be output at the analog output:

Select the value to be assigned to the 4mA output
(Example Flow)

QStar UFM can only provide positive ows to
the outputs. The ow display must return posi-

i

tive values. What happens if the value exceeds

the setup high or low limits? Example: You
expect a owrate of 100m3/h and assigned this
rate a value of 20 mA. However, the owrate

may reach 130 m³. This means that a value of

20mA will also be output for owrates higher

than 100 m3/s.

When do you have an error situation?

i

• If limits of the values previously assigned

to the 4mA and 20mA outputs were ex-

ceeded on expiration of a specic time

(burnout)

• Signal loss

Example: You expect a maximum owrate of

100 m3 in your application and assigned this

rate the 20mA value. You also set the following

defaults for the error mode.

If an error is pending, the 4mA to 20mA output

enters the error mode and outputs 4mA on expi­ration of a delay time of 20 seconds. In practical

operation you may have a owrate of 130 m³

in the piping for a duration up to two minutes.
In this case, QStar UFM would output 20mA
for the duration of 20 seconds and then enter
the error mode and output 4mA on expiration

of a timeout of 20 seconds. After the owrate

has dropped again to a value less than 100
m³ (on expiration of 100 seconds),the QStar
UFM will automatically exit the error mode and

output the setup current for the ow.

42

APPLIES TO PORTABLE QSTAR UFM (Continued)

SETUP THE RELAY

Your QStar UFM is equipped with a relay output.

This output can be assigned a function or a range.

Example of an external circuitry:

You link an alarm beacon with the output to signal that
the owrate has undershot the lower threshold limit.

Color coding of the relay output cable:

In addition to setup variables such as ow,

QStar UFM applies the corresponding unit

i

that is selected in the “Units Setup” setting

and appended to the respective variable that

is displayed in a measuring window. Example:

If you selected the physical unit m³ for ow

variables, the values of the switching points

are also setup in cubic meter.

Select the upper limit value for the relay. Relay will be
activated when measured value exceeds the maximum
limit.

CAUTION

The relay has a NO (normally open) contact.

The contact is only closed when triggered by a
setup function. The contact will retain its open
state on power failure and with low rechargeable

battery. You do not have to observe the polarity

of the wiring since it is potential free.

To access the “Analog output” menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP”. In the main menu, select

-> “I/O Setup” -> “Relay:

Choose value (lower limit) for activation of relay. Relay
will be activated when measured value fall below the
limit.

Example: A pump is operated in an applica-

tion and the discharge volume of this pump

i

is measured. The pump has a maximum

discharge volume of 6000 m3 /h and there is

a risk of damage to the pump when the dis-

charge volume drops to less than 150 m3/h.

The objective is for QStar UFM to shut down

the pump as soon as the value drops below

a point at which damage to the pump can be

expected. So in that case, lower limit has to be

set to 150m3/h, upper limit to 6000m3/h. Relay

will be activated if ow falls below 150m3/h or

exceeds 6000m3/h.

The physical unit cubic meter must have been

assigned to the ow variables in the physical

unit settings. The minimum activation point

must have been setup.

43

CALIBRATION

SYSTEM SETTINGS

QStar UFM provides a calibrating function that can be

used to calibrate the ow. It may also be used to calibrate

the analog outputs and temperature sensors.

To access the “Calibration” menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” -> Navigate to “Calibration
Setup” in the main menu”.

CALIBRATING FLOW

Select “Flow” from the calibration menu”.

To access the “System settings” menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” -> Navigate to “System
Setup” in the main menu

Editing the Time and Date

To access the “Time and date” menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP”. In the main menu, select
“System Setup “ -> “Time and date

Enter an offset percentage that is relative to calibration
reference.

To calibrate QStar UFM, we recommend you

take measurements at different ow velocities

i

then calculate the mean value of the results. GPI

calculates the mean value based on ve differ­ent ow velocities. The ow offset is retained in

device memory until it is overwritten with a new
value word.

CALIBRATING THE TEMPERATURE
SENSOR

For more information on temperature sensor calibration,
refer to the section Measuring with QStar UFM: Heat
measurement.

Enter the time with the format hh(hour):mm(minutes):ss
(seconds). Enter the date with the format: mm(month).
dd(day).yy(year).

Modifying the Display Backlight

To access the “Backlight” menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” — In the main menu, select
“System Setup” -> “Backlight”

Adjust the display brightness by setting value (0% = no
backlight, 100% maximum brightness).

44

Change Language

MISCELLANEOUS

1. Switch on the UFM — Within the start sequence, press
the multifunctional key next to the “SETUP” eld.

2. Conrm the “SETUP LANG.” button.

To access the “Miscellaneous” menu:

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” — In the main menu, navi­gate to “Damping/CutOff/Zero” menu.

Flow Damping

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP”. In the main menu, navigate
to “Damping/CutOff/Zero” -> “Damping Flow”

Specify an attenuation of signal output in this dialog.
Enter a damping time. It is a T63 damping. That means
after damping time the displayed value has reached 63%
of real change.

3. Use the arrows in the next window to select the dialog

language. Conrm entry with “Enter” and exit the menu
with “SETUP”.

CAUTION

The language setting changes the language used

in the menus. The language in the elds next to

the multifunctional button remain unchanged.

Example: Damping time 5 seconds, Flow change from
1 m3/h to 2 m3/h.

Display: Shows 1.63m3/h after 5 seconds, 2.00 m3/h
after another 5 seconds (10 seconds in total).

Typical values are 5-30 seconds. The higher the damp-

ing the slower the measurement but the “smoother” the

measurement curve.

Flow Cut off

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP”. In the main menu, navigate
to “System Setup” -> “Damping/Cut off/ Zero” -> “Cut
off Flow”.

Only the ow velocities that are greater than the setup
“Cut off” will be displayed. Lower velocities will be dis-

played as 0.

45

Zero Setting

Impulse OUT

nUpRelays/ T1/T2 Analog Out

QMP-001

Software Reset

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP”. In the main menu, navigate
to “System Setup” -> “ Damping/CutOff/Zero “ -> “Zero”.

System Setup-> “System information”

In the primary measuring window “Flow 1”: Select

“SETUP” -> “CMPL SETUP” — In the main menu, navigate
to “System Setup” -> “Info Flow Module”. Check version

of software to see if an update is available.

RESETTING QSTAR UFM

Two different types of resets:

• Hardware Reset

Use software reset in all other cases like getting an

implausible measurement or reading on the display.
Data stored on SD card will not be deleted. Data stored

internally (parameter les) will be deleted.

There are different possibilities to make a software reset

• Immediately after switching on, press “RESET
SYS” at the starting screen.

• From the main menu “Flow 1” choose SETUP

-> COMPL SETUP -> SYSTEM -> RESET SYS.

CAUTION

Reset the date and time after each software
reset.

• Software Reset

Hardware Reset

Hardware reset is only necessary when QStar UFM

hangs up and cannot be operated any longer by using
the buttons. Data stored internally or on the SD card will
not be deleted.

Fixed QStar UFM: The hardware reset can be activated
by pressing the reset button located behind the cover.

Portable QStar UFM: The hardware can be reset by
putting a small screwdriver or a paper clip into the hole

on the backside of the transmitter.

ResetDow

USBPower

TROUBLESHOOTING

Use the following check lists for troubleshooting and check
all items listed. If an error prevents you from taking proper
measurements after you completed the check, contact

GPI Customer Service Representative at: [phone].

Make sure to have the following information available:

• Pipe material

• Pipe outer diameter

• Wall thickness

• Medium type and temperature

• Type/length of the intake/discharge circuits

• Type of transducer used

Use the “QStar UFM troubleshooting” information

for troubleshooting by means of step-by-step

i

elimination of items. This procedure helps when
troubleshooting complex issues and in locating
the fault systematically.

46

TROUBLESHOOTING

A: NO MEASURE AT ALL

1. Are you absolutely certain that the piping is

completely lled?

2. Can you exclude gas load on the medium?
Is a pump close by?

If there is gas load:

• Are the transducers installed at the 10 AM

or 2 PM position on the horizontal pipe?

• If there is gas load on the medium, is there

an option of mounting the transducers to a
vertical pipe? If yes, mount the transducers
to a vertical pipe.

3. What is the solid particle content of the uid? □

4. Are you absolutely certain of the wall thick-

ness? Check the piping for the presence

of engraved information that may be of

relevance. Hot water piping is subject to the

formation of lime deposits that may propagate

the deposit of solid particles of uid with high
content. Use a wall thickness meter. You can
purchase a wall thickness meter from GPI.
Check the wall thickness entry on the device.

5. Did you enter the outer diameter of the pipe,
or its circumference? Check the correspond-
ing values once again.

6. Have you selected the correct piping mate­rial? Are you certain the piping is not lined?

When taking measurements on a pipe made

of concrete you must presume that this piping
does not have sound conducting properties.

Check the setup values once again.

7. Does the ultrasonic transducer match the
application with regard to pipe dimensions
and medium temperature? Is the temperature

of the uid within permitted limits? Did you

select a suitable ultrasonic transducers for
the application with regard to the pipe dimen­sions? Once again, verify that you selected
the correct ultrasonic transducer and that it
is setup.

8. Which transducer mounting mode did you se­lect? Standard is the V-mode. If you selected
the W-mode, you should rst try the V-mode.

9. Verify the proper transducer distance. Take
the measurements at the transducer faces.

When using a spacer bar, check the number

of holes between the transducer mounting
positions.

TROUBLESHOOTING

A: NO MEASURE AT ALL

□

□

□

□

□

□

□

□

10. Does the piping have a thick paint coating?
If yes, try to remove the paint at the position
where you are planning to install the ultrasonic

transducers using sand paper. Never take any

measurements on piping insulation, no matter
what type of material is involved.

11. Did you apply an appropriate lm of acoustic
coupling gel (Magnalube) to the transducer
faces? Small transducers (types QMP-F10 and
F21) need approximately 1.2 inches, whereas
the large transducer (QMP-F05) requires ap­proximately 2.4 inches of coupling gel.

12. Do the transducers apply adequate pressure
on the piping?

13. Are the transducers that are mounted without
spacer bar precisely aligned along a common
axis on the piping?

14. Are there sources of strong disturbance such
as transformers,electrical drives, or sources of
vibration in the immediate area of measure­ment?

15. Use the Z-mode for installation if all of your

efforts did not yield a satisfactory result. Setup

your device accordingly. You might also try to
test your equipment on a different piping sec­tion that is close by in order to nd out whether
or not you can perform a measurement. Check

all measuring leads for damage.

B: IMPRECISE MEASUREMENT RESULTS

1. Did you observe the corresponding upstream

and downstream distances? The quality of

measurements will deteriorate in propor­tion to shorter upstream and downstream
distances.

2 . Did you perform a zero calibration after

having closed a stop valve on piping?

3 . Check the setup values with regard to the:

• Pipe outer diameter

• Wall thickness

• Piping material

• Transducer distance

□

□

□

□

□

□

□

□

□

47

Measures to take if the piping is not lled

Amplitude

Amplitude

Amplitude

Amplitude

completely.

siphon

Sensor 1Sensor 2

If you cannot separate the piping, because it is plastic
piping, for example, or if the application is in the planning
or installation phase, it is recommended to use a siphon to

compensate for partially lled piping. The gradient of the
siphon is calculated based on the expected ow velocity

and contamination load. Contact GPI for support if it is
necessary to install a siphon for your application.

The time the signals needs from one transducer to the
corresponding transducer (run time) depends on path

length (distance), speed of sound of materials, uid and
ow velocity.

Depending on mounting mode the signals might look as

shown in Figure 64.

FIGURE 64: Signal Images

t1w

t1v

Pipe Signal

Pipe Signal

t1v

Signal

Signal

Mode-

Mode-

-

-

V

V

tp

tp

signal

signal

Send

Send

t1w

Signal

Signal

Mode-

Mode-

-

-

W

W

time

time

DIAGNOSTIC MENU

Oscilloscope/Auto-Window

Signal propagation

QStar UFM offers sophisticated diagnostic menus allow-

ing users to optimize challenging measurements in harsh

conditions. To use the diagnostic menu for troubleshoot-

ing, a background in signal propagation is provided.

Figure 63 illustrates which signals occur and how they
progagate at the pipe.

FIGURE 63: Signal propagation

UP-Transd. V-Mode W-Mode

UP-Transd. V-Mode W-Mode

UP-Transd. V-Mode W-Mode

Signal

Desired

Desired
Desired

-

Mode

Mode

Mode

-

-

-

Z

Z

Z

Signal

Signal

Signal

-

-

V

-

Mode

Signal

Signal

Signal

Z-Mode

Z-Mode

Z-Mode

Pipe Signal

Pipe Signal

Pipe Signal

W

-

W

W

Mode

-

-

Mode

Mode

Signal

Signal

Signal

-

-

V

V

-

-

Mode

Mode

-

At t=0 the UP-transducer starts signal transmission.
After time T=tp you can see the pipe wall signal which
reaches the corresponding transducer rst because of

shorter distance and (usually) faster propagation caused
by higher speed of sound of pipe material.

After that, at time T=t1v, the V-mode signal reaches the
transducer (single reection at opposite pipe wall). After

t1w (approximately 2x t1p) the W-mode signal is being
detected. Usually, when having pipe materials highly
conductible for ultrasonic signals (metals) and small
pipes, the pipe wall signal has high amplitude which
is similar to amplitude of V-mode signal. When having
sound-absorbing materials (plastic, concrete) and/or

coating the pipe wall signal is usually weak indicated by

low amplitude. The V-mode signal is usually stronger
than the W-mode signal.

The time between the different signals might be signi­cantly higher or lower depending on pipe sizes and speed

of sound of involved materials.

A different situation occurs when measuring in Z-mode.

FIGURE 65: Signals in Z-mode

The UP-transducer mounted at upstream position emits
the send (or desired) signal. This signal propagates within

the pipe wall (“pipe signal”) as well as in the uid. The
signal propagating in the uid is reected a couple of
times at the pipe walls (Z-Mode signal, V-mode signal,

W-mode signal). The signal which represents the desired
signal depends on mounting mode. For example, when
mounted in V-mode the V-mode signal is the desired

signal. The other signals (Z-mode, W-mode, pipe wall)

may also disturb this signal. The corresponding transducer

is mounted in V-mode as standard but Z-mode and W-

modes are possible. This transducer receives the signals
and returns another signal to UP transducer.

48

t1z

t1z

tp

tp

Send Signal

Send Signal

time

time

Beside the send signal, only the desired signal (Z-signal)
is visible. The Z-signal reaches the receiving transducer
after T=t1z.

Oscilloscope Menu

Amplitude

Amplitude

With the oscilloscope menu you can analyze signals and

even manipulate them in order to handle challenging
applications.

QStar UFM sets all necessary parameters for the
signal processing. When manipulating signals

i

these settings will change. This might result in
a loss of signals and/or failure in measurement.
The changes done in the oscilloscope menu
might remain valid even when leaving the menu.
To get settings from QStar UFM the site should
be setup again.

QStar UFM only works with the signals within the measur­ing window. The measuring window represents a certain

period of time which is analyzed by QStar UFM about
signals. The measuring window can be moved back and

forth by using the arrow buttons.

FIGURE 66: Measuring Window

t1w

t1v

tp

tp

signal

signal

Send

Send

t1v

Signal

Signal

-

signal

signal

Pipe

Pipe

-

Mode

Mode

-

-

V

V

t1w

Signal

Signal

Mode-

Mode-

-

-

W

W

Time

Time

window displays (Figure 50). In this picture, window
starts at 154 µSec. Use arrow buttons to change this
starting time.

Signal Analysis Using Oscilloscope

The oscilloscope allows quick check of signal quality.

This helps to get accurate measurements. Good signal

to noise ratio and “sharpness” of signals are important

for best results.

Signal-to-noise ratio (SN)

SN indicates the difference of amplitudes between the
desired signal and the noise. The higher the SN the bet­ter the signal processing. Figure 68 shows good signals
with very good SN.

FIGURE 68: Oscilloscope Menu Showing Good Signals

Delay

Delay

Window

Window

Window

Zoom +

Zoom +

Zoom +

Zoom -Zoom -

Zoom -Zoom -

Zoom -Zoom -

There is almost no noise at all and a clear and distin-

guished signal.
QStar UFM tries to set the measuring window so that
only the desired signal (for example, V-mode) is visible.

FIGURE 67: Oscilloscope Menu Showing Desired Signals

Figure 69 shows a noisy signal with lower SN. Screen

shows noise around the signal which reaches 20-40%

of signal.

FIGURE 69: Oscilloscope Menu Showing Noisy Signal

Use ZOOM-/ZOOM+ buttons, to scale-up/scale-down

the measuring window (decrease/increase the time the
window is open). Use arrow buttons to move window left
or right (opens earlier/later).

QStar UFM only uses signals within the window. If you
move the window, the signal will disappear and you might
get wrong/no measurement.

QStar UFM is able to handle noisy signals thanks
to its sophisticated signal processing. However,

i

if a high SN is encountered, the user should use
caution in case of additional interferences.

Information about starting point (“delay”) of measuring

49

If there are problems with your measurement SN can
be improved by:

Figure 71 shows diffused signals. There is basically no
phase shift. This might result in undetected signals.

• Surface of pipe: Remove paint or rust

• Coupling grease: Use sufcient coupling grease

(Magnalube).

• Alignment of transducers: Make sure the trans­ducers are mounted as suggested by QStar UFM.

Make sure that center of transducers touches the
pipe sufciently (might be a problem with very
small pipes). You can check the oscilloscope

while mounting the transducers.

• Make sure the transducers are not mounted on

welding seams.

• Make sure to remove air from liquid.

• Choose another mounting position (for example,

vertical pipe).

• Make sure to provide sufcient straight run.

• Make sure that signal cables are not disturbed

by power cables.

• Pumps and motors (with frequency inverters)

generate electric noise and should be avoided.

• Use Z-mode rather than V-mode to reduce path

length and therefore to increase signal strength.

• Try V-mode rather than W-mode.

• Use stronger transducers, for example, –F05

instead of –F10 or –F10 instead of –F21.

Sharpness of Signals

QStar UFM uses coded signals to make sure to detect
signals in case of noise. Coded means QStar UFM makes
phase shifts within a signal package.

Figure 70 shows a sharp signal. You can see approxi-
mately 5 waves followed by a phase shift and other waves.

FIGURE 71: Diffuse Signals

QStar UFM is able to handle diffused signals
until a certain limit. Nevertheless sharp signals

i

should be the goal.

If there are problems, the sharpness can be increased by:

• Choosing different signal sequence

• Using other mounting mode

• Using different transducer

• Improving pipe surface: Removing paint and/

or rust

• Making sure to use sufcient amount of coupling

grease (Magnalube)

• Aligning of transducers: Make sure that transduc­ers are mounted as suggested and that the center

of transducers touches the pipe sufciently (might
be problem at very small pipes). You can check

the oscilloscope while mounting the transducers.

• Making sure that transducers are not blocked by

welding seams

• Choosing a different location for measurement

FIGURE 70: Sharpness of signals

50

To select a different signal sequence, enter the diagnostic

menu (Diag) and press button on the right of parameter

SendCode. Usually the signal sequences 3-Barker 5 or
4-Barker 7 are expected to bring best performance. You
can try different sequences and check inuence in diag-

nostic data (SigQ, see Troubleshooting: Oscilloscope

Amplitude

Amplitude

Amplitude

Menu of QStar UFM) as well as visually in oscilloscope.

Separating Signals (small pipes)

When measuring at small pipes (<1.9 in.) the distances
between the received signals become smaller. In the
worst case, signals might interfere as shown in Figure
72 Interfering signals.

FIGURE 72: Interfering Signals

FIGURE 73: Separated Signals

Signal

Signal

Mode-

Mode-

-

t1v

Pipe Signal

Pipe Signal

-

V

V

t1w

Signal

Signal

-

-

Mode

Mode

-

-

W

W

Send Signal

Send Signal

tp

time

time

tp

signal

Send

t1v

Zoom -

signal

Pipe

-

Mode

-

V

Window

Zoom +

Signal

-

t1w

Mode

-

W

Zoom

Signal

-

Time

-

---

In this case, there are not only the desired signal within
the measuring window but also the interfering pipe wall
signal and also a part of the W-mode signal.

QStar UFM uses sophisticated algorithms to
separate desired signals from interfering signals.

i

These algorithms are mainly applied when having
the auto window function activated. But especially
when measuring at very small pipes interference
might occur anyway. In that case the user can

separate signals (in order to lter out the desired

signal) manually in the oscilloscope mode.

Window

Window

Window

Zoom +

Zoom +

Zoom +

Zoom -Zoom -

Zoom -Zoom -

Zoom -Zoom -

Deactivate the auto-window in order to separate signals

manually. Always check the measured speed of sound

of the separated signal. When the (separated) desired
signal is within the measuring window, the speed of sound
(parameter vS in diagnostic menu) should be within
+/- 20% of the expected speed of sound (for example,
when measuring water at 68° F speed of sound should
be within 1400-1500 ft/s). If vS exceeds the expected

values you most likely have separated the wrong signal

(example, pipe wall signal, then vS is showing speed of
sound of pipe material).

Activate/Deactivate Auto-Window

When in main menu “Flow 1”, choose OSZ to enter the

oscilloscope menu.

Determine whether to use auto window or not. In case
of problems with measurement we recommend to try

without auto window rst.

Choose “NO”

If interference does occur:

• Use W-Mode rather than V-mode (rst counter-

measure)

• Use Z-Mode rather than V-mode (when W-mode
does not work)

• Deactivate Auto-Window and use ZOOM function/
shift function (arrow buttons) to kick out disturbing

signals of the measuring window.

• Use different signal sequence, for example,
3-Barker5 or 1Puls rather than 4-Barker 7

• Use transducer working at higher frequency

(F21 rather than F10) to get sharper signals.

When using F21 (2MHz) instead of F10 (1MHz)

the signals become half as wide (half of time)

which makes it easier to separate signals.

Display shows distinguished signals (UP and DOWN) in
the oscilloscope.

Press DIAG and OSZ again to activate auto window.
Answer with YES. Check if position of ultrasonic signals
have been changed. Check if value for delay has been

changed. If yes, use auto window for your measurement.

Auto window is activated when you say YES and when

you leave oscilloscope mode. To deactivate auto window
enter oscilloscope mode again and answer with NO).

51

DIAGNOSTIC MENU

CAUTION

The diagnostic menu shows a lot of parameters
that are mainly readable for experienced
users. The diagnostic data are also suited for
troubleshooting.

Diagnostic Window 1:

MENU 1: Diagnostic Data

Frequency: Shows the signal frequency which depends

on the selected transducer.

There are three different transducers using different

frequencies (500kHz, 1000kHz, 2000kHz).

Signal: Shows the type of signal code. Coded signals
allow reliable detection of signals.

T1: Signal run time signal 1 (Upstream signal or down­stream signal depending on connection of cables).

T2: Signal run time of back signal 2 (Upstream signal or

downstream signal depending on connection of cables).

dT: Measured difference between T1 and T2 (minus

zero offset if applicable). dT is proportional to ow.

vF: Measured velocity

vS: Measured speed of sound of uid. Depends on

temperature.

SigQ: Number of valid signals (in percentage). QStar

UFM makes numerous measurements per second and
automatically lters out unreliable signals. The number of

measurements in relation to valid measurements is SigQ.

The achievable number is related to the chosen quality
(see Menu 2). The higher the quality the lower usually
the SigQ. When setting quality to 0 there is basically no
ltering of signals and all signals are used for measure­ment (with the risk of using bad signals.

K-Factor: Factor which compensates the inuence
when measuring laminar ow (Re <8000). When

measuring in that area a (small) additional uncertainty
might occur.

Reynolds: The number of Reynolds automatically
affects the chosen compensation factor.

Send Code (=signal sequence): The used signal

sequence.

Diagnostic Menu 2:

MENU 2: Diagnostic Data

Theta: Angle between ultrasonic path and ow vector.

Path length: Length of acoustic path. Depends on pipe

size and on chosen installation mode of transducers.

(Delay): Represents the time when the measuring
window starts.

Sensor distance: Distance between the two trans­ducers.

Bar index: Mounting positions when using spacer bar.

Gain: The required amplication (gain) of the signals

is automatically set continuously. 0 represents no

amplication (not applicable) while 255 represents the
maximum amplication. The lower the gain the better

the signal transmission. Very high gain might indicate
a disturbed signal (gas, particles, wrong mounting).

dT Corr: Time shift of signals created by zero setting.

Quality: The quality parameter represents the “thor-

oughness” of the internal lter. Filter means that QStar
UFM checks each signal if plausible or not using the
quality parameter. When choosing quality 0, there will
be no ltering. That means that each signal is used for

measurement even the bad (and maybe wrong) ones.

Filtering of 100 would mean that ltering is very strict.

Both values ( 0/100) are not recommended. Typical
values are 50-75. When not getting measurement it

might be useful to set quality lower (for example, set

to 20).

Diagnostic Menu 3:

52

Menu 3: Diagnostic Data

T1/T2 (raw): Signal run times along complete signal
path including pipe wall and transducer enclosure.

dt (raw): Measured time difference of T1/T2 (raw).

XDCR (DCR=Transducer): Signal run time within
transducer.

Pipe delay: Signal run time within pipe wall.

qp: Compensation factor considering changes in

temperature (and therefore changes in speed of sound

of uid).

Coating delay: Delay in signal run time generated by
coating (if applicable).

Lambda Corr.: Delay can be manually edited (not
recommended, only for maintenance) by multiples of
wave length of signal.

Delay Corr: Shows Lambda Corr in seconds.

SOFTWARE UPDATE

Check software version

Before making any software update, check version of

software.

Switch off transmitter and restart it. During “start” locate

the version at the bottom of start screen (see arrow).
Note this value.

Consult GPI/website for latest revision levels. If you are
using an earlier version, contact GPI for updates and
procedures.

53

FLUID PROPERTIES

SPEED OF WATER

° C V in/s

0 1403
1 1408
2 1413
3 1417
4 1422
5 1427
6 1431
7 1435
8 1439

9 1444
10 1448
11 1452
12 1455
13 1459
14 1463
15 1466
16 1470
17 1473
18 1476
19 1480
20 1483

° C V in/s

21 1486
22 1489
23 1492
24 1494
25 1497
26 1500
27 1502
28 1505
29 1507
30 1509
31 1512
32 1514
33 1516
34 1518
35 1520
36 1522
37 1524
38 1526
39 1527
40 1529
41 1531

° C V in/s

42 1532
43 1534
44 1535
45 1537
46 1538
47 1539
48 1541
49 1542
50 1543
51 1544
52 1545
53 1546
54 1547
55 1548
56 1549
57 1549
58 1550
59 1551
60 1551
61 1552
62 1552

° C V in/s

63 1553
64 1553
65 1554
66 1554
67 1554
68 1555
69 1555
70 1555
71 1555
72 1555
73 1555
74 1555
75 1555
76 1555
77 1555
78 1555
79 1555
80 1555
81 1555
82 1554
83 1554

° C V in/s

84 1554
85 1553
86 1553
87 1552
88 1552
89 1551
90 1551
91 1550
92 154958
93 1549
94 1548
95 1548
96 1547
97 1546
98 1545
99 1544

100 1543

° F V in/s

32 55226

33.8 55422

35.6 55613

37.4 55800

39.2 55983
41 56161

42.8 56335

44.6 56506

46.4 56672

48.2 56834
50 56992

51.8 57146

53.6 57297

55.4 57444

57.2 57587
59 57726

60.8 57862

62.6 57995

64.4 58124

66.2 58250
68 58372

° F V in/s

69.8 58492

71.6 58607

73.4 58720

75.2 58830
77 58937

78.8 59041

80.6 59142

82.4 59239

84.2 59335
86 59427

87.8 59516

89.6 59603

91.4 59687

93.2 59769
95 59847

96.8 59924

98.6 59997

100.4 60069

102.2 60137
104 60204

105.8 60268

° F V in/s

107.6 60330

109.4 60389

111. 2 60446
113 60501

114.8 60554

116.6 60604

118.4 60652

120.2 60698

122 60743

123.8 60785

125.6 60825

127.4 60863

129.2 60899

131 60933

132.8 60965

134.6 60995

136.4 61024

138.2 61050

140 61075

141.8 61098

143.6 61119

° F V in/s

145.4 61138

147.2 61156
149 61172

150.8 61185

152.6 61198

154.4 61209

156.2 61218
158 61225

159.8 61231

161.6 61235

163.4 61238

165.2 61239
167 61238

168.8 61236

170.6 61233

172.4 61228

174.2 61221
176 61213

177.8 61204

179.6 61193

181.4 61180

° F V in/s

183.2 61167
185 61152

186.8 61135

188.6 61117

190.4 61098

192.2 61077
194 61055

195.8 61031

197.6 6100709

199.4 60981

201.2 60954
203 60925

204.8 60896

206.6 60865

208.4 60832

210.2 60799
212 60764

54

FLUID PROPERTIES (Continued)

DYNAMIC VISCOSITY

LIQUID ° F V in/s ° C pg/cm³ V m/s V (x10-6m2/s)

Acetone 68.00 46850 20 0.7905 1190 0.407

Aniline 68.00 65315 20 1.0216 1659 1762

Ether 68.00 39606 20 0.7135 1006 0.336

Ethylene glycol 68.00 65591 20 1.1131 1666 21.112

Chloroform 68.00 39409 20 1.4870 1001 0.383

Glycerin 68.00 75709 20 1.2613 1923 1188.5

Acetic acid 68.00 45630 20 1.0495 1159 1.162

Methyl acetate 68.00 46496 20 0.928 1181 0.411

Ethyl acetate 68.00 45827 20 0.900 1164 0.499

Heavy water 68.00 54646 20 1.1053 1388 1.129

Carbon tetrachloride 68.00 36929 20 1.5942 938 0.608

Mercury 68.00 57126 20 13.5955 1451 0.114

Nitrobenzene 68.00 57992 20 1.207 1473 1.665

Carbon disulde 68.00 45591 20 1.2634 1158 0.290

n-pentane 68.00 40630 20 0.6260 1032 0.366

n-hexane 68.00 42638 20 0.654 1083 0.489

Spindle oil 89.60 52126 32 0.905 1324 15.7

Gasoline 93.20 49213 34 0.803 1250 0.4 to 0.5

Water 56.30 57480 13,5 1. 1460 1.004(20°C)

SPEED OF SOUND OF
PIPE MATERIALS

Material V m/s V in/s

Iron 3230 127165

Steel 3206 126220

Ductile cast
iron

Cast iron 2460 96850

Stainless
steel

Copper 2260 88976

Lead 2170 85433

Aluminum 3080 121260

Brass 2050 80709

VinyIchIoride 2640 103937

Acrylics 2644 104094

FRP 2505 98622

Mortar 2500 98425
Tar epoxy 2505 98622
Potyethylene 1900 74803
Teon 1240 48819

3000 118110

3206 126220

SPEED OF SOUND SUBJECT TO CHANGE OF TEMPERATURE IN WATER

LIQUID ° C ° F pg/cm³ V m/s V in/s

Acetone 20 68 0.7905 1190 46850
Aniline 20 68 1.0216 1659 65315
Alcohol 20 68 0.7893 1168 45984
Ether 20 68 0.7135 1006 39606
Ethylene glycol 20 68 1.1131 1666 65591
n-octane 20 68 0.7021 1192 46929
o-xylene 20 68 0.871 1360 53543
Chloroform 20 68 1.4870 1001 39409
Chlorobenzene 20 68 1.1042 1289 50748
Glycerin 20 68 1.2613 1923 75709
Acetic acid 20 68 1.0495 1159 45630
Methyl acetate 20 68 0.928 1181 46496
Ethyl acetate 20 68 0.900 1164 45827
Cyclohexane 20 68 0.779 1284 50551
Dithionic acid 20 68 1.033 1389 54685
Heavy water 20 68 1.1053 1388 54646

LIQUID ° C ° F pg/cm³ V m/s V in/s

Carbon tetrachloride 20 68 1.5942 938 36929
Mercury 20 68 13.5955 1451 57126
Nitrobenzene 20 68 1.207 1473 57992
Carbon disulde 20 68 1.2634 1158 45591
Chloroform 20 68 2.8904 931 36654
n-propyl alcohol 20 68 0.8045 1225 48228
n-pentane 20 68 0.6260 1032 40630
n-hexane 20 68 0.654 1083 42638
Light oil 25 77 0.81 1324 52126
Transformer oil 32.5 91 0.859 1425 56102
Spindle oil 32 90 0.905 1342 52835
Petroleum 34 93 0.825 1295 50984
Gasoline 34 93 0.803 1250 49213
Water 13.5 56 1. 1460 57480

Sea water
(salinity: 3.5%)

16 61 1. 1510 59449

55

SPECIFICATIONS QSTAR PORTABLE QSTAR FIXED

Operation: Intuitive via 8 main keys (Soft Keys), plain text display

Languages: English, Spanish and French

Units: Metric/US

Outputs:

Inputs: 2x PT100

Integrated Data Logger: 2 GB N/A

Data Logged: Measurement and totalizers N/A

Data Format: Can be exported into standard ofce programs N/A

Memory Cycle: Adjustable, 1 second to 24 hours N/A

Power Supply:

Protection Class: IP40 IP65, Ex

Housing: Aluminium, PVC PVC, wall-mounted

Dimensions: 10.4 x 7.5 x 2.7 in. 10.2 x 9.4 x 4.7 in.

Operating Temp: -4° F to 140° F

Transducer Temp: -40° F to 300° F

Weight: 3.3 lbs 2.9 lbs

Display: QVGA (320x240), black and white, adjustable backlighting

Carrying Case 20 x 16 x 16 N/A

2x 4-20 mA, 1x Relay, 1x MicroUSB

1x Pulse

Integrated rechargeable battery and 110V AC adapter 85-264VAC, 18-36VDC (opt.)

Battery Duration: Approximately 5 hours Power Consumption: 10 W

2x 4-20 mA, 1x Pulse, 1x MicroUSB

1x Relay, RS232 (opt.)

MEASUREMENT

Principle: Ultrasonic transit time difference with AFC technology

Values Meas: Flow, ow speed, heat ow

Totalizers: Heat quantity, volume

Meas. Range: +/- 98 ft/s

Signal Damping: 0 - 100 sec (adjustable)

Acoustic velocity, signal strength, SNR, signal quality,

Diagnostic Functions:

MODEL
NO. DESCRIPTION

QME05 Ultrasonic Flowmeter (ENERGY-FIXED, .5 MHz) 8" to 240"

QME10 Ultrasonic Flowmeter (ENERGY-FIXED, 1 MHz) 1.5" to 16"

QME20 Ultrasonic Flowmeter (ENERGY-FIXED, 2 MHz) .5" to 4"

QMF05 Ultrasonic Flowmeter (FIXED, .5 MHz) 8" to 240"

QMF10 Ultrasonic Flowmeter (FIXED, 1 MHz) 1.5" to 16"

QMF20 Ultrasonic Flowmeter (FIXED, 2 MHz) .5" to 4"

amplitude, energy

Oscilloscope function allows graphical display and
analysis of signals.

PIPE
SIZES

(Above include temperature sensors)

MEASUREMENT ACCURACY

Inner Diameter Ø

.39 - .98 in.

.98-1.97 in.

1.97-11.81 in.

11.81-236.22 in.

Repeatability for majority of applications is <0.2%

MODEL
NO. DESCRIPTION

QMP05 Ultrasonic Flowmeter (PORTABLE, .5 MHz) 8" to 240"

QMP10 Ultrasonic Flowmeter (PORTABLE, 1 MHz) 1.5" to 16"

QMP20 Ultrasonic Flowmeter (PORTABLE, 2 MHz) .5" to 4"

QMF-PT100 Temperature Sensor Kit, FIXED (16 FT)

QMP-PT100 Temperature Sensor Kit, PORTABLE (16 FT)

Pipe Wall Thickness Gauge

Range Deviation

6.56-98.42 ft/s 2.5% of reading
0-6.56 ft/s ± 0.16 ft/s

6.56-98.42 ft/s 1.5% of reading
0-6.56 ft/s ± 0.10 ft/s

6.56-98.42 ft/s 1% of reading
0-6.56 ft/s ± 0.07 ft/s

3.28-98.42 ft/s 1% of reading
0-3.28 ft/s ± 0.03 ft/s

PIPE
SIZES

56

Limited Warranty Policy

Great Plains Industries, Inc. 5252 E. 36th Street North, Wichita, KS USA 67220-3205, hereby provides a limited warranty against

defects in material and workmanship on all products manufactured by Great Plains Industries, Inc. This product includes a 1 year
warranty. Manufacturer’s sole obligation under the foregoing warranties will be limited to either, at Manufacturer’s option, replacing or

repairing defective Goods (subject to limitations hereinafter provided) or refunding the purchase price for such Goods theretofore paid

by the Buyer, and Buyer’s exclusive remedy for breach of any such warranties will be enforcement of such obligations of Manufacturer.

The warranty shall extend to the purchaser of this product and to any person to whom such product is transferred during the warranty
period.

The warranty period shall begin on the date of manufacture or on the date of purchase with an original sales receipt. This warranty
shall not apply if:

A. the product has been altered or modied outside the warrantor’s duly appointed representative;

B. the product has been subjected to neglect, misuse, abuse or damage or has been installed or operated other than in accor-

dance with the manufacturer’s operating instructions.

To make a claim against this warranty, contact the GPI Customer Service Department at 316-686-7361 or 888-996-3837. Or by mail at:

The company shall, notify the customer to either send the product, transportation prepaid, to the company at its ofce in Wichita,
Kansas, or to a duly authorized service center. The company shall perform all obligations imposed on it by the terms of this warranty

within 60 days of receipt of the defective product.

GREAT PLAINS INDUSTRIES, INC., EXCLUDES LIABILITY UNDER THIS WARRANTY FOR DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL
AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES INCURRED IN THE USE OR LOSS OF USE OF THE PRODUCT WARRANTED HEREUNDER.

The company herewith expressly disclaims any warranty of merchantability or tness for any particular purpose other than for which

it was designed.

This warranty gives you specic rights and you may also have other rights which vary from U.S. state to U.S. state.

Note: In compliance with MAGNUSON MOSS CONSUMER WARRANTY ACT – Part 702 (governs the resale availability of the war-

ranty terms).

Great Plains Industries, Inc.

5252 E. 36

Wichita, KS, USA 67220-3205

th

St. North

©2013 by GREAT PLAINS INDUSTRIES, INC., Wichita, KS
Printed in U.S.A.

5252 East 36th Street North

Wichita, KS USA 67220-3205

316-686-7361 | FAX: [phone]

888-996-3837 |

www.GPImeters.net

920222-0105/13