Micronics U3000, U4000 User Manual
Micronics U3000/4000
Ultrasonic Flowmeter
User Manual
Issue 2.0
U3000/U4000 User Manual i
(Issue 2.0)
Table of Contents
1: General Description 1
1.1 Introduction 1
1.2 Principles of Operation 2
1.3 Supplied Hardware 3
1.4 U3000/U4000 Instrument 4
1.4.1 Connections 4
1.4.2 Keypad 5
1.4.3 Power supply 6
1.4.4 Expansion modules (U4000 only) 6
2: Installation 7
2.1 Safety Precautions and Warnings 7
2.2 Installing the U3000/U4000 instrument 7
2.2.1 Positioning the instrument 7
2.2.2 Mounting the instrument 7
2.2.3 Connecting the instrument 9
2.3 Installing The Ultrasonic Transducers 10
2.3.1 Transducer positioning 10
2.3.2 Preparation 11
2.3.3 Transducer attachment 11
2.3.4 Attaching the guide rail to the pipe 12
2.3.5 Fitting the transducers 12
2.4 Installing the USB Virtual Com. Port (U4000 only) 14
3: Operating Procedures 15
3.1 Setting-up the Instrument 16
3.1.1 Using the instrument for the first time 16
3.1.2 Enabling/disabling the backlight 17
3.1.3 Changing the user language 17
3.1.4 Changing the date and time 17
3.2 Using the Quick Start Menu 18
3.3 Instrument Calibration 21
3.3.1 Adjusting the zero cut-off 21
3.3.2 Adjusting the set zero flow offset 21
3.3.3 Adjusting the calibration factor 22
3.3.4 Adjusting the roughness factor 22
3.3.5 Adjusting the damping factor 23
ii U3000/U4000 User Manual
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3.4 Outputs 24
3.4.1 Current output 24
3.4.2 Pulse output 26
3.4.3 Alarm outputs 27
3.5 How to Measure Totalised Flows (manually) 29
4: Data Logging & Communications (U4000) 31
4.1 How To Set Up The Basic Logging Application To Memory 31
4.2 How To Set Up Automatic (Timed) Logging Mode 33
4.3 How To Log Directly To A PC 35
4.4 How To Log Directly To Both Memory and PC 35
4.5 How To Download Logged Data To A PC 35
4.6 Working With Portagraph II 36
4.7 Printing 36
4.7.1 How to print logged data using the RS232 printer 36
4.8 Operation with the Calec®ST Energy Totaliser 38
4.8.1 Pulse output 38
4.8.2 Connecting the U3000/U4000 to the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser 38
4.8.3 Configuring the U3000/U4000 38
4.8.4 Configuring the Calec® ST Energy Totaliser 40
5: Maintenance & Repair 41
6: Troubleshooting 43
6.1 Overview 43
6.2 General Troubleshooting Procedure 44
6.3 Warning and Status Messages 45
6.4 Diagnostics Display 48
7: Options 49
7.1 Options Common To Both The U3000/U4000 49
7.1.1 High temperature transducers 49
7.1.2 Large pipe diameter transducers 49
7.1.3 Guide rail options 49
7.1.4 Extended signal cable options 49
7.1.5 High temperature interface cable 49
7.2 U4000 Options Only 49
7.2.1 Heat meter 49
7.2.2 MODBUS 49
Appendix A: Specification 51
U3000/U4000 User Manual 1
(Issue 2.0)
1: General Description
1.1 Introduction
This manual describes the operation of the U3000/U4000 flowmeter. The flowmeter is designed to work with
clamp-on transducers to enable the flow of a liquid within a closed pipe to be measured accurately without
needing to insert any mechanical parts through the pipe wall or protrude into the flow system.
Using ultrasonic transit time techniques, the U3000/U4000 is controlled by a micro-processor system which
contains a wide range of data that enables it to be used with pipes having an outside diameter ranging from
13mm up to 2000mm and constructed of almost any material. The instrument will also operate over a wide
range of fluid temperatures.
The basic features of the U3000 and U4000 are identical. However, the standard U4000 can also perform
data logging, has RS232 and USB communications interfaces.
U3000/U4000 standard features:
• Large, easy to read graphic display with backlight.
• Simple to follow dual function keypad.
• Simple ‘Quick Start’ set up procedure.
• Continuous signal monitoring.
• Isolated pulse output.
• Isolated current output (4-20mA, 0-20mA or 0-16mA).
• Password-protected menu operation for secure use.
• Signal diagnostics.
• Multi-function alarm outputs.
• Operates from Mains, 24Va.c. or 24Vd.c.
U4000 additional standard features:
• 98k stored data points.
• Logging of Flows and Volume totals.
• RS232 and USB output.
The U4000 can accommodate a number of options that are not available on the U3000. These include:
• Heat Meter
• MODBUS
• Further options are being developed and will be released during 2010.
Volumetric flow rates are displayed in l/h, l/min, l/sec, gal/min, gal/h, USgals/min, USgals/h, Barrel/h, Barrel/
day, m³/s, m³/min, m³/h. Linear velocity is displayed in metres or feet per second.
When operating in the ‘Flow Reading’ mode the total volumes, both positive and negative, are displayed up to
a maximum 12-digit number.
The flowmeter can be used to measure clean liquids or oils that have less than 3% by volume of particulate
content. Cloudy liquids such as river water and effluent can be measured along with cleaner liquids such as
demineralised water.
Typical U3000/U4000 applications include:
• River water.
• Seawater.
• Potable water.
• Demineralised water.
• Treated water.
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Both the U3000 and U4000 have ‘A’ and ‘B’ model options, which refer to the transducer type provided. Thus
a U3000A will be supplied with type ‘A’ transducers which are designed to work with pipe diameters between
13mm - 115mm; whereas a U4000B will be supplied with type ‘B’ transducers which are designed to work
with pipe diameters between 50mm - 2000mm. Both sets of transducers use a common mounting system for
pipe attachment. Throughout this manual any reference to ’U3000/U4000’ applie s to both U3000A/B and
U4000A/B model variants unless otherwise stated.
Note: Type ‘A’ and ‘B’ probe sets are fully interchangeable and the alternative probe kit can be purchased
separately if required to extend the usable range of the instrument.
1.2 Principles of Operation
Figure 1.1 Operating modes
When ultrasound is transmitted through a liquid the speed at which the sound travels through the liquid is
accelerated slightly if it is transmitted in the same direction as the liquid flow and decelerated slightly if
Fluid flow
Fluid flow
Fluid flow
Fluid flow
Fluid flow
U
U
U
U
D
D
D
D
Separation
Distance
Separation
Distance
Separation
Distance
Separation
Distance
Reflex mode
Reflex mode (double bounce)
Reflex mode (triple bounce)
Diagonal mode
This is the mode most commonly used.
The two transducers (U & D) are attached
to the pipe in line with each other and the
signals passing between them are reflected
by the opposite pipe wall.
The separation distance is calculated by
the instrument in response to entered data
concerning the pipe and fluid characteristics.
In this mode the separation distance is
calculated to give a double bounce. This is
most likely to occur if the pipe diameter is
so small that the calculated reflex mode
separation distance would be impractical
for the transducers in use.
This illustration goes one step further to show
a triple bounce situation. This would normally
apply when working with very small pipes
relative to the transducer range in use.
This mode might be selected by the
instrument where relatively large pipes are
concerned. In this mode the transducers are
located on opposite sides of the pipe but the
separation distance is still critical in order
for the signals to be received correctly.
This mode might be used with the standard
‘A’ & ‘B’ transducer sets but for really large
pipe installation the optional transducer set ‘D’
might be recommended.
Upstream
transducer
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U3000/U4000 User Manual 3
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transmitted against it. The difference in time taken by the sound to travel the same distance but in opposite
directions is therefore directly proportional to the flow velocity of the liquid.
The U3000/U4000 system employs two ultrasonic transducers attached to the pipe carrying the liquid and
compares the time taken to transmit an ultrasound signal in each direction. If the sound characteristics of the
fluid are known, the instrument’s microprocessor can use the results of the transit time calculations to
compute the fluid flow velocity. Once the flow velocity is known the volumetric flow can be easily calculated
for a given pipe diameter.
The system can be set up to operate in one of four modes determined mainly by the pipe diameter and the
type of transducer set in use. The diagram in Figure 1.1
illustrates the importance of applying the correct
separation distance between the transducers to obtain the strongest, and therefore most reliable, signal.
1.3 Supplied Hardware
The supplied U3000/U4000 components are shown in Figure 1.2.
Figure 1.2 Standard U3000/U4000 equipment
U3000/U4000Standard equipment
• Instrument with backlit graphic display.
• Transducer cables (x2) 5 metres long.
• Transducers ‘A-ST’ x2 (U3000/U4000A) for use with pipes ranging 13mm – 115mm.
• Transducers ‘B-ST’ x2 (U3000/U4000B) for use with pipes ranging 50mm – 2000mm.
• USB cable and RS232-C cable (U4000).
• Guide rail for use with ‘A’ or ‘B’ transducers.
• Steel bands used to secure the transducer guide rails to the pipe.
• Acoustic couplant.
• User documentation.
Transducer
Steel bands (x2)
Guide Rail
Transducers
(Sensors) (Ax2, or Bx2)*
U3000/4000
Instrument
Cables (x2)
Mounting clamps (x2)
High Temperature
Interface
Cables (x2)
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U3000/U4000 Optional equipment
• High temperature transducer sets ‘A-HT’ and ‘B-HT’ (-20°C to +200°C).
• Transducer set 'D' - used for monitoring pipes of 1500mm to 5000mm diameter, over a temperature
range -20°C to +80°C. This kit is supplied in a separate case and includes the sensors together with
ratchet straps and guide rails for attaching to the pipe.
U4000 Optional equipment
• Heat Meter: This option allows the U4000 to calculate the heat energy between an inlet and outlet
pipe at different temperatures for a given flow rate. It comprises a plug-in board that performs the
energy calculation. This option requires two sets of Pt100 4-wire temperature probes.
• Process Control Busses: The first of these to be offered will be the MODBUS protocol using EIA/RS232 or EIA/RS-485 physical layer.
1.4 U3000/U4000 Instrument
The U3000/U4000 is a microprocessor controlled instrument operated through a menu system using an
inbuilt LCD display and keypad. It can be used to display the instantaneous fluid flow rate or velocity, together
with totalised volumes. The instrument can also provide an isolated current output, or variable pulse output,
proportional to the measured flow rate which can be scaled to suit a particular flow range. Finally, two
isolated alarm outputs are provided which can be configured in a number of ways. For example, to operate
when the flow rate exceeds a specified maximum or minimum li mit.
In addition, the U4000 can function as a data logger. When operating in this mode the logged data can be
output to the instrument's memory, to a PC (via the RS232 or USB serial interfaces), or simultaneously to
both memory and PC. When logging to memory only, the logged data can be downloaded to the PC at a later
time. Both the flow rate and +/- Totals can be logged, with up to 96K logging events stored internally.
1.4.1 Connections
Figure 1.3 Instrument details
Transducer connections
The transducer probes are connected to two coaxial sockets located on the bottom left-hand of the
instrument. The silk-screen above these connectors show a red and blue triangle and a direction of flow
symbol. For a positive flow reading, it is important that the upstream transducer is connected to the RED
socket and the downstream transducer to the BLUE one. It is safe to connect or disconnect the cable while
the instrument is switched on.
Keypad
LCD Display
Coaxial cables to probes
Cable glands for
Small & Large
Glands for power
connection
Alarms & I/O connections
Blue = Downstream
Red = Upstream
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USB connection (U4000 only)
A USB cable is supplied as part of the U4000 kit and can be connected between the U4000 instrument and a
PC to download logged data. The USB connector, located on the top left hand side of the flowmeter as
shown in Figure 2.2
, uses a Bulgin screwed type connector to preserve the enclosure’s IP 65 rating.
RS232 Connection (U4000 only)
An RS232 cable is supplied as part of the U4000 kit to allow communications with a PC or printer. The RS232
cable can be inserted through one of the Alarms & I/O cable glands as shown in Figure 2.2
.
4-20mA, ‘Pulse’, and Alarm I/O connections
The 4-20mA, ‘pulse’, and alarm I/O cables enter the bottom of the instrument via two cable glands and are
connected internally to a terminal block. Full details of the terminal connections are provided in Chapter 2
(Installation) and Chapter 7 (Options).
Power supply
Two cable glands on the bottom right-hand side of the instrument are available for the power supply cable.
Two sizes of glands are provided to accept cables of different diameters.
1.4.2 Keypad
The instrument is configured and controlled via a 15-key tactile membrane keypad, as shown in Figure 1.4.
Figure 1.4 U3000/U4000 Keypad
Scroll UP
ENTER (SELECT)
Scroll DOWN
Scroll LEFT
Scroll RIGHT
Scroll UP
ENTER (SELECT)
Scroll DOWN
Numerical keypad
Scroll LEFT
Scroll RIGHT
with dual function keys
U4000 Keypad
U3000 Keypad
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Menus and the menu selection keys
Note: As a security measure, once the instrument has been set-up for the first time a password is required to
gain subsequent access to the operating menus.
The U3000/U4000 menus are arranged hierarchally with the MAIN MENU being at the top level. Menu
navigation is achieved by three keys located on the right hand side of the keypad which are used to scroll UP
and DOWN a menu list and SELECT a menu item. When scrolling through a menu an arrow-shaped cursor
moves up and down the left hand side of the screen to indicate the active menu choice which can then be
selected by pressing the ENTER (SELECT) key.
Some menus have more options than can be shown on the screen at the same time, in which case the
overflowed choices can be brought into view by continuing to scroll DOWN past the bottom visible item. Menus
generally ‘loop around’ if you scroll beyond the first or last items.
If you select Exit on any menu it usually takes you back one level in the menu hierarchy, but in some cases
it may go directly to the ‘Flow Reading’ screen.
Some screens require you to move the cursor left and right along the display as well as up and down. This is
achieved using keys 5 (scroll LEFT) and 6 (scroll RIGHT).
Dual function numerical keypad
The block of keys shown in the centre of the keypad in Figure 1.4
are dual function keys. They can be used to
enter straight-forward numerical data, select the displayed flow units or provide quick access to frequently
required control menus.
1.4.3 Power supply
Mains supply
As standard, the instrument is designed to work with a mains supply of 86-236V and 50/60Hz. A 500mA
mains supply fuse is located adjacent to the mains power connection (see Figure 2.3).
24V Supply
An alternative 24V a.c./d.c. power supply module is available as a factory (distributor) fitted option. This
supply is protected by a resettable solid-state fuse located on the U3000/U4000 motherboard. If this fuse
opens it can be reset by isolating the 24V supply.
Power failure
The instrument will automatically power-up and become operational when the input power is applied. In the
event of a power failure the instrument’s configuration parameters are stored in non-volatile memory, which
then allows the instrument to return to normal operation immediately power is restored.
On the U4000 a real time clock (RTC) records the date/time of any power disruptions and time-stamps any
such occurrence in the output log. All data logging ceases while power is unavailable.
1.4.4 Expansion modules (U4000 only)
The U4000 motherboard contains a standard plug-in communications module which provides RS232 and
USB functions. An expansion slot is available which can be used to extend the functionality of the U4000 to
include a Heat Meter or a range of process control interface options through a plug-in expansion module.
Details of available plug-in modules and other optional equipment are given in Chapter 7.
U3000/U4000 User Manual 7
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2: Installation
2.1 Safety Precautions and Warnings
2.2 Installing the U3000/U4000 instrument
2.2.1 Positioning the instrument
The U3000/U4000 instrument should be installed as close as conveniently possible to the pipe-mounted
ultrasonic sensors. Standard transducer cables are 5 metres in length with 3 metre cables being optionally
available. Where, for operational reasons, it is not possible to mount the instrument this close to the sensors,
bespoke cables of up to 100m can be provided – consult Micronics Ltd for further information and availability.
A suitable mains supply must be available to power the instrument (an optional 24V a.c./d.c. supply module is
available). The external supply must be suitably protected and connected via an ide ntifiable isolator. A
500mA fuse is fitted internally in the instrument’s input supply line.
2.2.2 Mounting the instrument
Ideally the U3000/U4000 enclosure should be fixed to a wall using three M4 screws – see Figure 2.3.
1. Remove the U3000/U4000 terminal cover.
2. Fix a screw into the wall at the required point to align with the mounting keyhole on the back of the
enclosure.
3. Attach the enclosure to the wall using the keyhole screw mounting.
4. Align the enclosure then mark out the positions for the two remaining screw fixings through the slots near
the bottom corners of the enclosure. Then remove the enclosure, and drill (and plug) the fixing points.
5. Clear the site of any dust/debris then mount the enclosure on the wall.
WARNING
LETHAL VOLTAGES
You may be exposed to potentially lethal (mains) voltages
when the terminal cover of this instrument is removed.
Always isolate the supply to this instrument before removing
the terminal cover.
WARNING
LETHAL VOLTAGES
This instrument must be installed by an electrically qualified
technician aware of the potential shock hazards presented
when working with mains powered equipment
Caution
IP65 Enclosure Protection
Blanking plugs are fitted to the cable glands on leaving the manufacturer.
In order to preserve the enclosure’s IP65 rating, ensure that the blanking plugs
remain fitted in any unused cable gland.
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Figure 2.1 U3000/U4000 Mounting and connection details
GND
TxD
RxD
mA+
mA-
PULSE+
PULSE-
ALARM1+
ALARM1-
ALARM2+
ALARM2-
EXPIO#1
EXPIO#2
EXPIO#3
EXPIO#4
EXPIO#5
EXPIO#6
EXPIO#7
EXPIO#8
24V+
24V-
230V -L
230V-N
230V-E
GND
TxD
RxD
mA+
mA-
PULSE+
PULSE-
ALARM1+
ALARM1-
ALARM2+
ALARM2-
EXPIO#1
EXPIO#2
EXPIO#3
EXPIO#4
EXPIO#5
EXPIO#6
EXPIO#7
EXPIO#8
24V+
24V-
230V -L
230V-N
230V-E
FUSE
141mm
198mm
M4 Screw Slot
M4 Keyhole
Mounting Details
The instrument should be
securely wall-mounted using the
three fixing points shown.
Cable connections
All power and control cables enter
through cable glands located on the
bottom of the instrument and connect
to terminal blocks as shown.
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2.2.3 Connecting the instrument
All cables enter the instrument through the (4) cable glands provided and are connected to terminal blocks
which are located behind a safety cover. The terminal blocks use a spring-loaded securing mechanism which
is opened by lifting the orange tab situated on the top of the terminal connection.
Control & monitoring cables
Depending on the fitted options, any of the following control and monitoring cables may be required:
• Current output – a 4-20mA, 0-16mA, or 0-20mA monitoring signal is output at terminal mA+ and mA-.
(mA+ is the current output terminal and mA- is the return terminal).
• Pulse output – an opto-isolated pulse output is available at terminals PULSE+ and PULSE- (PULSE+ is
the pulse output terminal and PULSE- is the return terminal).
• Alarm Outputs – two programmable, multifunction alarm outputs are available using MOSFET, SPNO
relays. The relays are rated at 48V/500mA continuous load, and are connected to terminals
ALARM1+, ALARM1-, ALARM2+ and ALARM2- respectively.
• RS232 Interface (U4000 only) – an RS232 interface is provided to allow logged data to be
downloaded to a PC or RS232 compatible printer. The interface is connected to terminal TxD (data
transmitted from the U4000) RxD (data received by the U4000) and GND (signal ground).
• Expansion ports (U4000 only) – terminals EXPIO#1 to EXPIO#8 are used for I/O connections to a
number of optional expansion boards that may be fitted to the U4000 expansion slot. Details of the
available options are provided in Chapter 7.
1. Remove the terminal block cover.
2. Route the control and monitoring cables through the two smaller cable glands.
3. Cut the wires to length, strip back the insulation by approximately 10mm and connect them into the
required terminals as described above and identified in Figure 2.1
.
4. On completion, tighten the cable glands to ensure the cables are held securely.
USB Connection (U4000 only)
Figure 2.2 U4000 USB Connection
A Mini-USB connector is available at the left-hand side of the enclosure to which the USB cable provided can
be attached, as shown in Figure 2.2
. The free end of the USB cable can be plugged directly into any PC USB
port.
USB Connector
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Power connections
The instrument can be powered from a mains supply (86 - 264V a.c., 47/63Hz) or from a 24V a.c./d.c. supply
if it is fitted with a 24V supply module.
1. Route the power cable through one of the two cable glands on the right hand side of the instrument,
below the power connection terminals, using the gland most suitable for the cable diameter.
2. Cut the wires to length, strip back the insulation by approximately 10mm and connected to them into the
correct power supply terminals identified in Figure 2.1.
3. On completion, tighten the cable glands to ensure the cables are held securely.
4. Refit the terminal block cover.
2.3 Installing The Ultrasonic Transducers
2.3.1 Transducer positioning
Figure 2.3 Locating the transducers
To obtain the most accurate results the condition of both the liquid and the pipe wall must be suitable to allow
the ultrasound transmission along its predetermined path. It is important also that the liquid flows uniformly
within the length of pipe being monitored and that the flow profile is not distorted by any upstream or
downstream obstructions. This is best achieved by ensuring there is a straight length of pipe upstream of the
transducers of at least 20 times the pipe diameter and 10 times the pipe diameter on the downstream side, as
WARNING
LETHAL VOLTAGES
Ensure the power cable is isolated from the mains supply.
Do not apply mains voltage with the terminal cover removed.
Flow
Valid transducer location
10 x Diameter
20 x Diameter
45°
The U3000/U4000 equipment expects a uniform flow profile
as a distorted flow will produce unpredictable measurement
errors. Flow profile distortions can result from upstream
disturbances such as bends, tees, valves, pumps and other
similar obstructions. To ensure a uniform profile the
transducers must be mounted far enough away from any
cause of distortion such that it no longer has an effect.
Uniform Flow Profile Distorted Flow Profile
In many applications an even flow velocity profile over
a full 360° is unattainable due, for example, to the
presence of air turbulence at the top of the flow and
possibly sludge in the bottom of the pipe. Experience
has shown that the most consistently accurate results
are achieved when the transducer guide rails are
mounted at 45° with respect to the top of the pipe.
Possible
sludge
Air
Flow
Guide
rail
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U3000/U4000 User Manual 11
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shown in Figure 2.3. Flow measurements can be made on shorter lengths of straight pipe, down to 10
diameters upstream and 5 diameters downstream, but when the transducers are positioned this close to any
obstruction the resulting errors can be unpredictable.
2.3.2 Preparation
Before you attach the transducers you should first ensure that the proposed location satisfies the distance
requirements shown in Figure 2.3
otherwise the resulting accuracy of the flow readings may be affected.
Prepare the pipe by degreasing it and removing any loose material or flaking paint in order to obtain the best
possible surface. A smooth contact between pipe surface and the face of the transducers is an important
factor in achieving a good ultrasound signal strength, and therefore maximum accuracy.
2.3.3 Transducer attachment
Figure 2.4 Transducer attachment (completed assembly)
The type ‘A’ or ‘B’ transducers are fixed to the pipe using the adjustable guide rail assembly shown in Figure
2.4. The guide rail itself is secured to the pipe using two wrap-around steel bands, or by chain (optional). For
user convenience, an imperial ruler (inches) is etched on the top side plate and a metric (millimetres) ruler is
etched on the bottom side plate – as shown in Figure 2.4. Once the guide rail assembly is fully assembled the
transducers are locked into position by tightening two thumb screws which are themselves then secured by
M5 locking nuts.
Key Point: Do not expect to obtain accurate results if the transducers are positioned
close to any obstructions that distort the uniformity of the flow profile.
Rectangular
Upstream
Downstream
Stainless steel bands
transducer
opening
transducer
Nylon Flag
Transducer
Cable Connector
Thumb screw
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2.3.4 Attaching the guide rail to the pipe
1. Remove the two nylon flags from the guide
rail.
2. Position the guide rail horizontally on the
pipe at 45° to the horizontal and secure in
position using the stainless steel banding as
shown in Figure 2.5
.
Note: In the following procedure the guide rail is
installed with the rectangular opening facing
towards the upstream end of the pipe.
2.3.5 Fitting the transducers
1. Attach the nylon flags to the
two transducers, as shown in
Figure 2.6
.
2. Using a syringe applicator,
apply a 3mm bead of acoustic
couplant to the base of both
transducers.
3. Insert the downstream
transducer cable (blue)
through the right-hand guide
rail end plate and up through
the rectangular opening at the
left-hand side of the guide rail,
as shown in Figure 2.7
.
Note: When carrying out the following steps handle the transducer assembly with care to avoid smearing
the couplant on the pipe whilst attaching the transducer to the guide rail.
4. Connect the downstream cable to one of the transducers and lower the transducer and cable through the
rectangular opening, as shown in Figure 2.8
.
5. Align the slots in the side of the nylon flag with the edges on the top of the guide rail then carefully slide
the transducer assembly to the middle of the guide rail.
6. Tighten the thumb screw (clockwise) until the transducer is locked to the top of the guide rail (to avoid the
acoustic couplant from touching the pipe).
Figure 2.7
Figure 2.8
Figure 2.5
Figure 2.6
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7. Connect the upstream signal cable (red) to
the other transducer and lower the
transducer assembly through the
rectangular opening, as shown in Figure
2.10.
8. Position the upstream transducer at ‘0 on
the ruler scale and lower the transducer
onto the pipe by turning the thumb screw
anti-clockwise, as shown in Figure 2.11.
9. (See Note below.) Align the face of the righthand, downstream, transducer at the
calculated separation distance mark on the
ruler scale, then lower the transducer onto
the pipe by turning the thumb screw anticlockwise until firm contact with the pipe is
made.
Note: The correct separation distance for the particular application can be found using the ‘Quickstart’
menu as described in Paragraph 3.2.
10. Finally lock the thumb screws in position by fitting the two M5 locknuts supplied.
11. Ensure the transducer signal cables are correctly connected to the U3000/U4000 instrument – i.e. with
the RED cable is connected to the upstream transducer connector and the BLUE cable to the
downstream transducer connector.
Figure 2.10
Figure 2.11
Figure 2.9
‘0’ on ruler scale
Calculated
Separation
Distance
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2.4 Installing the USB Virtual Com. Port (U4000 only)
The USB connection requires a virtual com port to be installed on the computer. The necessary driver can be
provided by Micronics or downloaded from http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm.
1. Access the above url and download the driver for your particular operating system. The download takes
the form of a zip file.
2. Extract all the files from the zip file into a folder and note its location (e.g. Desktop\USBDriver).
3. Switch ON the U4000 instrument and connect it to the USB port on the PC.
4. A “New device found” message will appear and ask you for the location of the software installation
files for the new device.
5. Use the Browse button to select the path to the unzipped driver files and then click OK.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver.
7. At the end of the driver installation routine you must carry out a minor configuration change to the newly
installed virtual com port. The way in which you gain access to the com port set-up window will vary
depending on your operating system. The following example applies to Windows XP.
8. Select Control Panel>System to open the SYSTEM PROPERTIES window.
9. Click the Device Manager button to open the DEVICE MANAGER window.
10. Scroll down to the Ports region and you will find the new FDTI port installed (e.g. USB Serial Port
with a high port number).
11. Right-click on the com port and select Properties.
12. From the PROPERTIES window select the Port Settings tab then click the Advanced button. The
ADVANCED SETTINGS window should open similar to that shown below.
Figure 2.12 Com. Port configuration
13. In the BM Options area change the Latency Timer value from 16 msec (default) to 1 msec.
14. Select OK to implement the change, and then close the remaining windows that were opened.
15. Your computer should now be able to communicate with the U4000 instrument via the USB port in the
same way as any other standard USB device.
U3000/U4000 User Manual 15
(Issue 2.0)
3: Operating Procedures
QUICK START
Enter data
Attach sensors
FLOW READING
Carry out any necessary calibration
(Paragraph 3.3)
How to adjust the Zero Flow Offset – Paragraph 3.3.2
How to adjust the Calibration Factor – Paragraph 3.3.3
How to adjust the Roughness Factor – Paragraph 3.3.4
How to adjust the Damping Factor – Paragraph 3.3.5
Set-up a monitoring or logging application
(Paragraph 3.4)
How to measure totalised flows – Paragraph 3.5
Configure the interfaces
(Paragraph 3.4)
Set date/time, Language, Backlight
Initial instrument setup
(Paragraph 3.1)
Connect and take basic flow readings
(Paragraph 3.2)
4-20mA ON/OFF – Paragraph 3.4.1
4-20mA Calibration – Paragraph 3.4.1
Pulse ON/OFF – Paragraph 3.4.2
Pulse calibration – Paragraph 3.4.2
Alarm outputs – Paragraph 3.4.3
How to set up basic (manual) logging – Paragraph 4.1
How to set up auto-timed logging – Paragraph 4.2
How to set up logging ‘live’ to a PC – Paragraph 4.3
How to Log directly to both Memory and PC – Paragraph 4.4
How to download saved data to a PC – Paragraph 4.5
How to print data – Paragraph 4. 7
How to use with Calec®ST Energy Totaliser – Paragraph 4.8
U4000 Only
(Section 4)
RS232 set-up – Paragraph 4.7.1
USB set-up – Paragraph 2.4
U4000 Only
(Section 4)
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